White Bean Soup with Luxeuil Ham and Comté Cheese

Ingredients:

• 2 cups dried white beans, soaked overnight
• 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 onion, chopped
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 cup Luxeuil ham, diced
• 1 cup Comté cheese, grated
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Drain the soaked beans and rinse them thoroughly. Set them aside.
2. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and sauté until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the soaked beans, broth, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaf to the pot with the onion and garlic. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer until the beans are tender (about 1-2 hours).
4. Remove the bay leaf and discard it. Use a hand blender or food processor to puree the soup until it is smooth.
5. Return the soup to the pot and add the diced ham. Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Simmer the soup for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the ham is warmed through.
7. Divide the soup into serving bowls and sprinkle each serving with Comté cheese.

Verdict and Serving Suggestions:

This white bean soup with Luxeuil ham and Comté cheese is a comforting and hearty dish, perfect for a cold winter day. The combination of the creamy white beans, smoky ham, and nutty cheese creates a rich and satisfying flavor. Serve the soup with crusty bread and a green salad for a complete meal.