In this recipe, some of the beans are pureed with a handful of parmesan cheese to create a rich and creamy broth with a complex flavor that's umami rich (translation: so much flavor!).

This recipe ... beans-and-greens soup was born. I wanted a soup that smelled like the comforts of home, so I started by sauteing some diced onion and carrot, then added garlic, a bit of ham ...

Drain the soaked beans and discard the water. Place the beans, ham hocks, chicken broth, and bay leaf in a soup pot; do not add salt at this stage. Bring to a boil and simmer for about 1 hour ...