Tomato and bean sauce

We are often warned, rightly, about the dangers of ultra high processed foods. Unfortunately, many of the jars of sauces that you might pick up during your weekly shop, the ones that help you make a quick weeknight meal, contain ingredients that you can't even spell, let alone recognise.

Many of the sauces that are tomato based do tend to be quite straightforward. Actually, so straightforward that I wonder why anyone buys them! However, when the sauce gets more advanced, the number of ingredients start to rack up.


This sauce is super simple and super tasty. It also brings lots of flavour along with plenty of protein and fibre.

It is made from 5 ingredients:

400g can tomatoes
400g can mixed beans
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 clove garlic
2 sprigs basil (or tsp dried)

Instructions: whizz together until smooth.

You can use the sauce straight away, or refrigerate - it tastes better the next day! It should keep for three days.

I would pour over some sautéed onions or mushrooms (or both!), allow to cook for a few minutes, and then serve with pasta. It can also be added to a veg soup, stews or casseroles, or anywhere you need a punch of flavour. Add a few chilli flakes for some heat.