Tuscan Beans

1. 1

   If using a terra-cotta pot for the first time, soak it in water to cover at least 6 hours, then drain.

2. 2

   Put beans, water, sage, bay leaf, and whole head of garlic in bean pot.

3. 3

   Cover and slowly bring to a simmer over low heat; this can take 2 3/4 hours in bean pot or 1 hour in saucepan.

4. 4

   Simmer beans until tender and soft but not mushy, about 45 minutes in bean pot or 35 to 40 minutes in saucepan.

5. 5

   Remove from heat and cool beans, covered, 15 minutes.

6. 6

   Stir in sea salt.

7. 7

   Drain almost all cooking liquid from beans (reserve for making soup if desired) and season beans with sea salt and pepper to taste.

8. 8

   Dress beans with oil at the table.

No additional tips available.