Step 1

Place the yellow split peas, mince, paprika, herbs, chopped tomatoes, garlic, onion, carrot and pepper in the slow cooker pot. Add the barbecue sauce and 400ml/14fl oz water – the easiest way to measure is to fill up the tomato tin with water (and this will rinse the tin at the same time).

Step 2

Mix everything together well, then season generously with salt and pepper. Cover with the lid and cook on low for 6–8 hours. After 6 hours the split peas will be cooked but still retain a little bite and after 8 hours they should be completely soft and breaking down.

Step 3

Toast the bread until it is really crisp and brown (and spread with butter if preferred). Put two slices on each plate, spoon the sloppy Joe mince evenly over the top and scatter with the cheddar.