Step 1

·        In advance, rinse, soak and cook beans according to instructions (until soft).

·        NB: To save time and energy try soaking and cooking beans in larger quantities and freezing some in individual bags for future use. A pressure cooker greatly reduces cooking time and energy and beans can be cooked with little or no soaking. Check advice for individual varieties.

Step 2

·        Toast spices in a dry frying pan for a few minutes

·        Add a small amount of vegetable oil and cook onion until soft, add garlic to taste and cook for a minute or two

·        Add tinned tomatoes, previously cooked beans, coconut milk and tomato paste and cook on a low heat for 15 minutes to allow flavours to develop

Step 3

·        Add vegetable stock or water if you prefer a looser consistency

·        Taste and season as required

·        Serve with rice