Fagioli E Gabmeri (Canellini Beans With Sauteed Shrimp)

* such as cannellini, Great Northern or navy beansNote: The beans in this recipe will need to be soaked overnightPut the beans in a non aluminum container and cover with 5 inches of codl water. Soak overnight and then drain well. Place them with all other ingredients except the salt (see note) and shrimp, in a pot that will comfortably hold them all.

Pour enough cold water over the ingredients to cover them by about 3 inches. Cook gently at a simmer for about 1 hour or more. The liquid in the beans should be mostly absorbed by the time they finish cooking and the beans shoul dbe very moist and succulent. Do not let them go dry. Add the salt to taste. Serve the beans hot, drizzled with olive oil; they are equally good at room temperature.

Sautee the shrimp in the olive oil with a pinch of salt and pepper for about 2 minutes, stirring often. Do not overcook. Serve the shrimp with warm beans or slightly chilled with room temperature beans.

Note: Adding salt to beans before they are fully cooked toughens them.

Serves 6 to 8.

NOTES: The beans are delicious without shrimp. They make a tasty accompaniment to roast or grilled meat, fowl or fish. If you increase the amount of cooking water, you an have a delectable baean soup.

(all recipes (c) Carlo Middione - Vivande Ristorante, as printed in SF Examiner Epicure, 4/26/95)