El Bulli-Inspired Bean Soup

This bean soup, inspired by the world-famous El Bulli restaurant, combines simplicity and sophistication. It highlights the natural creaminess of beans and layers of rich, savory flavors with high-quality ingredients. A refined yet comforting dish that’s a nod to the genius of Ferran Adrià.

Ingredients:

1 cup dried white beans (or 1 can, rinsed and drained)
4 cups vegetable broth
2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
1 clove garlic, minced

For Garnish:

1 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil (for drizzling)
Fresh herbs (e.g., thyme or parsley)
Crusty bread (optional)

Instructions:

Cook the Beans: If using dried beans, soak overnight, then cook in simmering water until tender, about 1-1.5 hours. Drain and set aside.
Sauté Garlic: In a medium pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
Simmer the Soup: Add the cooked beans and vegetable broth to the pot. Simmer for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Blend (Optional): For a creamy texture, blend part of the soup using an immersion blender or standard blender. Leave some beans whole for texture.
Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls, drizzle with high-quality olive oil, and garnish with fresh herbs. Serve with crusty bread if desired.

This simple yet elegant soup highlights the purity of its ingredients, a hallmark of El Bulli’s culinary philosophy.