Pasta e Fagioli with Ham Recipe

Drain the beans and set aside.

In a large stockpot heat the oil over moderate heat until hot. Add the onion celery and carrot and cook stirring occasionally for 5 minutes. Add ham and garlic and cook stirring for 1 minute. Add tomatoes beans beef stock thyme bay leaf and pepper to taste. Bring to a boil and simmer covered for 30 minutes.

Transfer 1/2 cup of the beans to a small processor or blender and puree. Return beans to pot and season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring liquid to a boil and add pasta. Simmer until pasta is tender about 6 minutes.