Fagioli Stufati

If you are lucky enough to find fresh cannellini beans then you will get the full benefit of this recipe and will realise why Tuscans are affectionately known as bean eaters. If fresh beans are unavailable, use dried ones if possible, or canned ones only as a last resort and after rinsing them carefully under running water. In some parts of the region, chunks of tuna or strips of pickled herring are added.