Tepary Bean and Fennel Ragout

this bean dish was wholesome and toothsome. the tasty beans were certainly a plus, but i believe any kind of bean would be delicious in this simple and easy to make dish. the fennel surprised me...one doesn't usually see it is southwestern cooking, but it added a nice flavor and texture.

Excellent flavor and tepary beans make it special. Tepary beans can sometimes take 3+ hours to cook. I cooked the beans separately and in the last 45 minutes added the sauteed carrots & onions and 2 tsp dried thyme and in the last 10 minutes, the sauteed fennel and salt to taste. The broth is fabulous - served with crusty bread to sop up the flavors. Will make again for sure!