Cold Puree of White Bean Soup with a Crispy Pancetta and Creole Tomato Relish

Ingredients

• 1/2 pound dried navy beans
• 6 cups low-sodium chicken stock
• freshly ground white pepper
• 1 cup water
• 1/4 to 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 8 ounces diced pancetta
• 3/4 cup small diced Creole tomatoes, seeded
• 1/2 cup small diced red onion
• 2 tablespoons chiffonade of fresh basil leaves
• 1 cup cubed white bread, (1/4-inch cubes), toasted
• drizzle of olive oil

Directions

In a large saucepan, over medium heat, combine the beans and 6 cups of the chicken stock. Season with pepper. Bring the liquid to a boil, reduce heat to low and simmer, uncovered for about 2 hours, or until tender. Remove from the heat. Using a hand held blender or food processor, puree until smooth. Whisk in the water and cream to desired consistency. Cool the soup completely and refrigerate until chilled. In a saute pan, over medium heat, render the pancetta until crispy, about 4 to 6 minutes, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat, drain, reserving fat for later use and cool. In a mixing bowl, add the tomatoes. Season with salt and pepper. Add the crispy pancetta, red onions, basil, and croutons. Season with a drizzle of the olive oil, salt and pepper. Remove the soup from the refrigerator and whisk until smooth. Add a little water if needed. To serve, ladle the soup into individual bowls. Garnish each soup with the relish