- Soak the beans in plenty of cold water for about 6 hours or overnight, then drain, and place in a large pan with the bay leaf, onion and carrot. Cover with fresh cold water and place on a medium heat. Bring to a simmer and continue to simmer for 45 to 60 minutes (it may take longer) or until tender, they should easily squash against the pan if pressed with a spoon.
- Meanwhile, add the olive oil to a large casserole dish and place on a medium high heat. Add the bacon and cook for a few minutes until golden. Next add the garlic, cook, stirring continuously for a minute or so until golden, then add the tomatoes, stock, sugar, salt and pepper and simmer for 10 minutes.
- Drain the beans and discard the carrot, onion and bay leaf. Add the cooked beans to the stew along with the cabbage and cook for a further 4 minutes until the cabbage is cooked. Stir in the herbs then taste for seasoning and serve.
Ecover has teamed up with chef and mother of three Rachel Allen to launch its ‘Eat Clean, Feel Good’ campaign, which aims to raise awareness of the hidden ‘nasties’ in washing up liquid. For more information visit www.the-splash.co.uk/feel-good/eat-clean