This combination of white beans, tomatoes, and cipolline is exceptionally delicious. Letting your tomatoes cook to the point where they become caramelized and start to fall apart adds sweetness and a layer of deep flavor to the dish.
Active time: 1 hr Start to finish: 9 1/4 hr (includes soaking)
• Beans can be cooked 1 day ahead. Cool in liquid, uncovered, then chill, covered. Reheat in liquid over low heat, covered, stirring occasionally, before assembling dish. • To quick-soak beans, cover dried beans with triple their volume of cold water in a large saucepan. Bring to a boil and cook, uncovered, over moderate heat 2 minutes. Remove from heat and soak beans 1 hour. • Tomatoes can be roasted 2 hours ahead and kept, uncovered, at room temperature. Reheat, covered with foil, in 350°F oven until heated through, 15 to 20 minutes. *Available at Italian markets and specialty produce markets.
