Save up stale bread and transform it into this thick, chunky, delicious stew, which is low in fat and calories, and showcases tomatoes, beans and cavolo nero.
Ingredients
2 tbsp olive oil plus extra for drizzling
1 onion finely chopped
2 celery sticks finely chopped
1 carrot chopped
2 garlic cloves crushed
pinch of chilli flakes
1 rosemary sprig
400g can chopped tomatoes
500ml hot chicken or vegetable stock
400g can cannellini beans drained and rinsed
1 parmesan rind (optional)
250g cavolo nero or kale, chopped
150g stale crusty bread torn into chunks (see tip below)
1 tbsp red wine vinegar
a few leaves of basil (optional) and grated parmesan or vegetarian alternative, to serve
Instructions
1Heat the oil in a large saucepan or flameproof casserole over a medium heat and fry the onion, celery and carrot with a pinch of salt for 15 mins until soft. Add the garlic and chilli flakes, and cook for 1 min.
2Stir in the rosemary sprig, tomatoes, stock, beans and parmesan rind, if using, and bring to a simmer. Add the cavolo nero and cook, covered, for 10 mins. Stir through the bread and cook for several minutes more to warm through, then add the vinegar and season. Spoon into bowls, drizzle with a little more oil and sprinkle with the basil, if using, and the grated cheese.
