Zuppa d'Orzo e Fagioli

Rinse the dried cannellini beans and place them in a large bowl, covering with ample cold water. Soak for at least 8-12 hours or overnight. Drain and rinse thoroughly before use.

Rinse the pearl barley and place it in a separate bowl, covering with cold water. Soak for at least 4 hours or overnight. Drain and rinse thoroughly before use.

Finely dice the pancetta. In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, add the diced pancetta and cook over medium heat until crispy and the fat has rendered, about 8-10 minutes. Remove the crispy pancetta with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pot.