SOUTHERN ITALIAN SOUP OF DRIED FAVAS, POTATOES, CAULIFLOWER, AND

Steps:

• In large heavy-bottomed stockpot, heat 1/4 cup olive oil over medium heat.
• Add onion and saute until soft and translucent, 7-9 minutes.
• Add water and fava beans and bring to boil.
• Reduce heat to medium and simmer til favas are nearly tender, about 1 hour.
• Add potatoes and cook til nearly tender, about 12 minutes.
• Add cauliflower and simmer til cooked through.
• Remove from heat and let stand to cool 10 minutes.
• Pour soup into blender or food processor, or use immersion blender. Puree until smooth.
• Return soup to stockpot and reheat over medium heat.
• Add more water to bring to desired consistency.
• Add salt to taste.
• In medium heavy skillet over medium heat, heat remaining 1 TBsp olive oil.
• When oil is hot, add pasta and stir well (Pasta will brown quickly).
• Fry stirring until pasta is is consistent light brown.
• Remove from skillet and drain on paper towels.
• Ladle soup into warm bowls.
• Dress with additional olive oil to taste, the fried pasta, and a generous dose of pepper, and serve.