Thursday, August 27, 2009

Slow-Cooker White Beans with Herbs & Garlic


So, when it's a million, bizillion degrees outside and the mercury is about to explode, who wants to go near at stove? Last night, Kuzak and I dragged our mattress into our one air-conditioned room, which is not the kitchen, and set up camp. Right now, the Monster and I are huddled together by the A/C, only emerging for food and very quick walks outside, with me urging, "Hurry Up!" while the Monster pants and sniffs and digs and then pants and sniffs a new spot, all while refusing to go. Thank goodness I'm heading north tomorrow, first to San Francisco and then further up the coast for Portland, Oregon!

What do I have in store for you? Well, first up, I'm reuniting with my parents, The Original Diva and The Wine Lover, and on Sunday, we're heading to my Top Chef Brother's restaurant, Picco, for a feast! The next day, we're following it up with a visit to Alice Waters' famed Chez Panisse. I'm sure we'll sneak in many other meals, but we're also booked into Beast and Wildwood Restaurant in Portland! I simply can't wait to escape the heat and do some serious eating!

But in the meantime, here's one of my favorite recipes, and it's perfect for hot days because you don't have to go near a stove! Instead, in the morning when it's still cool, plug in your favorite slow-cooker or crock pot, which uses much less energy, and let it go all day. By the time dinner roles around and the sun fades away, you'll be ready to eat! Also, did I mention that white beans are exceptionally healthy? Full of nutrients and fiber? This dish makes an excellent side dish to just about any meal, serve them alongside grilled fish, or pair them with lamb! A truly winning dish!


Domestic Diva's Slow-Cooker White Beans

1 cup cannellini beans, soaked overnight
bouquet garni (rosemary, thyme & a bay leaf tied together with twine)
2 tbsp olive oil
3 garlic cloves, peeled
salt & pepper

Directions:

Place the soaked beans in the slow-cooker and cover with filtered water. Add the olive oil, garlic cloves & bouquet garni. Simmer the beans for 4-6 hours until tender. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Enjoy!

Businesses Mentioned:

Chez Panisse Cafe
1517 Shattuck Avenue
Berkeley, CA 94709
(510) 548-5049

Alice Waters' famed Berkeley establishment, the cafe is a wonderful alternative to the more formal restaurant. Dine on her food in a relaxed atmosphere and save a buck while you're at it!


Picco Restaurant
320 Magnolia Ave.
Larkspur, CA 94939
(415) 924-0300

My Top Chef Brother's restaurant! They feature a family style restaurant next to a pizzeria and wine shop. A must visit when in the area!


Beast
5425 NE 30th Ave
Portland, OR 97211
(503) 841-6968

Wildwood
1221 NW 21st Ave.
Portland, OR 97209
(503) 248-9663

Music on Tap:

Pearl Jam - Pearl Jam

Kuzak just returned from seeing Pearl Jam in Chicago - a great who from what I hear! - and got me in the mood to revisit their latest album. They have a new one slated for September release and I already have my Ten Club tickets for the Oct. 6th show in LA! Favorites off this album include, "Life Wasted" and "World Wide Suicide."

2 comments:

  1. OMG it looks super yummy. Wine will do better with it. keep it up the good work. Cheers :)

    ReplyDelete
  2. Thanks so much for the comment!! Yes, all this needs is a glass of super fabulous wine!

    xoxo
    The Diva

    ReplyDelete