Stewed Mushrooms and Beans

Step 1

If using dry beans, soak them according to package instructions in a large pot. Small beans may only need an hour or two of soaking time. Drain them and set them aside. Return the pot to the stovetop and wipe it out.

Step 2

Heat the extra virgin olive oil in the large pot over medium heat. Once hot, add the shallots and celery and cook, stirring often, until softened, about 6-7 minutes. Season lightly with salt.

Step 3

Melt the butter into the shallot and celery. Once frothy, add the mushrooms. Cook for 8-10 minutes until the mushrooms release all their liquid and begin to brown and crisp up around the edges. Season with salt.

Step 4

Add the silk chili, thyme, and parsley and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Add the soaked beans and toss to coat.

Step 5

Pour in the vegetable stock and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for at least 30 minutes or until the beans are tender. Small beans, like the Alubia Blanca, take around 1 hour to become tender. If using canned beans, simmer for only 30 minutes. Add more stock or water as necessary if the broth evaporates too quickly—taste and season with salt and pepper.

Step 6

Once the beans are ready to be served, prepare the topping. Heat the oil and butter in a skillet over medium heat until melted and frothy. Add the mushrooms and cook for 3 minutes until they begin to brown. Add the pine nuts and cook for an additional 2 minutes until browned. Be careful not to burn the pine nuts! Turn off the heat and season lightly with flaky sea salt.

Step 7

Ladle the cooked beans into bowls and garnish with minced parsley. Scatter the warm mushroom and pine nuts on top. Enjoy!