Step 1

Heat the 1 tbsp oil in a saucepan. Add the 1/2 onion, 2 garlic cloves and 1 grated carrot, and cook for 5 minutes until softened.

Step 2

Stir in 1 tbsp tomato purée, 1/2 tsp smoked paprika, 1/4 tsp thyme, 1/2 tsp mustard, 1 tsp balsamic vinegar, and 1 tsp tamari or soy sauce (for a rich, savoury taste). Cook for 2 more minutes to develop the flavours

Step 3

Add the 100ml vegetable stock, 100g passata, and 2 tins of beans. Let simmer for 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens.