Heat the olive oil in a large, heavy pot set over medium-high heat.
Add the onion, garlic, chili and a pinch of coarse salt.
Cook, stirring now and then, until softened, about 10 minutes.
Meanwhile, finely chop the kale and set it aside.
Stir in the tomatoes, breaking them up with your spoon, along with a can of water, the beans and the chopped kale.
Bring the stew to a boil then lower the heat and simmer for an hour. The kale should be completely soft.
Serve each portion with a drizzle of olive oil and a few basil leaves torn over the top.