Fasolada

Ingredients:

• 500gms white beans (soaked overnight)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 celery sticks chopped
• 3 carrots chopped
• 5 cloves garlic crushed
• 2-3 TBsp olive oil
• 1 TBsp tomatoe paste
• 3 bay leaves
• 2 sprigs rosemary
• 2 stock cubes
• 1 red apple peeled
• 2 litres water
• salt and pepper to taste
• Thyme leaves to serve

Instructions:

1. In a bowl add beans and cover with water.
2. Add salt and stir well.
3. Cover and leave over night (8-12 hours.
4. ) Drain any water when done and rinse twice very well under cold water.
5. Drain and set aside.
6. In a large pot heat oil and add carrots and celery and cook on low for 5 minutes.
7. Add the garlic and cook for a further 5 minuets.
8. Stir in n the tomatoe paste, then add the rest of the ingredients.
9. Bring to the boil and lower to a simmer and cook for 1 1/2 hours.
10. Be sure to stir occasionally so it doesnt stick to the bottom.
11. Add salt and pepper to taste before serving.
12. Serve with thyme sprinkled on top.
13. You can also serve with lemon, olives, and feta if desired.