Pasta e Fagioli 2

This is another version of Pasta e Fagioli, where apparently there are as many variations as there are cooks in the world. This recipe is taken from Fine Cooking. It makes a very hearty stew that can be prepared all in one pot.

Ingredients

• 8 slices bacon, cut crosswise into 1/4-inch-wide strips
• 3 medium red onions, finely chopped
• 3 medium cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 tsp. dried rosemary
• 2 quarts lower-salt chicken broth
• Two 15-1/2-oz. cans chickpeas, rinsed and drained
• 14-1/2-oz. can petite-cut diced tomatoes
• 4 medium carrots, peeled, halved lengthwise, and thinly sliced
• 3 medium celery ribs with leaves, thinly sliced crosswise
• 1 slender 3-inch cinnamon stick
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 1 cup tubettini (or other small pasta)
• 1-1/2 tsp. red-wine vinegar; more to taste
• Grated or shaved Parmigiano-Reggiano for garnish

Instructions

1. In a 6-quart (or larger) Dutch oven over medium heat, cook the bacon, stirring occasionally, until partially crisp, about 7 minutes. With a slotted spoon, transfer the bacon to a paper-towel-lined plate.
   
2. Add the onions to the pot and cook, scraping up any browned bits and stirring occasionally, until softened, 6 to 8 minutes. Add the garlic and rosemary and cook, stirring constantly, until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add the chicken broth, chickpeas, tomatoes and their juices, carrots, celery, cinnamon stick, 3/4 tsp. salt, 1/2 tsp. pepper, and 1 cup water.
   
3. Bring to a boil over high heat; skim any foam as necessary.
   
4. Reduce the heat and simmer, stirring occasionally, until the carrots and celery are very tender, about 30 minutes.
5. Meanwhile, cook the tubettini according to the package directions and drain.
6. Discard the cinnamon stick and add the pasta. Stir in the bacon and vinegar. Season to taste with salt, pepper, and more vinegar. Serve garnished with the Parmigiano-Reggiano.

Serves 8. Eat.