White Bean Puree

Directions

1. 1
   A day ahead, rinse the beans and pick them over, discarding any broken or discolored ones.
2. 2
   Cover them with water and soak them overnight at room temperature.
3. 3
   On the day of serving, drain and change the water.
4. 4
   Bring the beans to a boil, drain them and cover them with fresh water.
5. 5
   Add the remaining ingredients, except the chicken stock, olive oil and thyme and simmer the beans until tender (one to two hours), stirring occasionally.
6. 6
   Add more water if the beans start to get dry.
7. 7
   Place half the beans in a food processor.
8. 8
   Add half a cup of the chicken stock.
9. 9
   Puree the beans and correct seasoning.
10. 10
    Repeat with the remaining beans and chicken stock.
11. 11
    Pour the puree into a serving dish and swirl the oil in on top.
12. 12
    Garnish with a few leaves of fresh thyme.