Best beans on toast

IN THE MIDST of a cost of living crisis,

I like my recipes the same as my dates – cheap and tasty. Beans on toast, a British staple has long been associated with austerity, but here’s a version that cooks in minutes, freezes well and elevates a poverty supper or lunch into something rather special. With grilled cheese, or a poached egg on top it still comes in at under £1 a portion. I bought my beans and tinned cherry tomatoes from Lidl and am also a fan of their Malted Bloomer loaf. You can up the ante by adding some pancetta or chopped chorizo at the beginning before adding the onion to the pan.

INGREDIENTS

• 1 medium onion, finely chopped

• 1 clove garlic, finely chopped

• 1 tablespoon tomato puree

• Splash of Red Wine (optional)

• 1 can chopped tomatoes

• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

• 2 teaspoon Italian Herb Mix or oregano

• 2 cans cannelini, mixed or butter beans

• Salt and pepper to season

• 8 thin slices of cheese

• Four slices of chunky toast

METHOD

Heat a slug of olive oil in a pan and add the onions. Gently fry until soft and add the garlic, stirring for a minute. Add the tomato puree and fry off for a few seconds before stirring in. Add the wine, if using, and allow to simmer off for a few seconds before adding the tomatoes, paprika and herbs. Cook over a low heat for a couple of minutes then add the drained beans and heat through. Season to taste. Serve of toast as it is or top with a couple of slices of cheese per portion and place under a grill until the cheese is bubbling and gorgeously golden.