Magic mince

Heat a dash of oil in a heavy-based saucepan over a medium-high heat and add the beef mince.

Brown mince, stirring with a wooden spoon to break up the meat, then transfer to a bowl.

Add another dash of oil to the saucepan and add the onion, carrot, celery and garlic and cook until they begin to soften, about 5 minutes.

Return mince to the saucepan.

Add the mushrooms, tomatoes, tomato paste, stock and thyme.

Bring to the boil, then reduce heat to low, cover and simmer mince for 45 minutes.

Stir mince from time to time and taste for seasoning.

Remove lid towards the end of the cooking time if you need to thicken the mince a little.

Serve magic mince on toast, top with a dollop of sour cream and parsley.

Serve magic mince with cooked rice, in taco shells or on toast.

To turn into a dish of nachos, place cooked magic mince in an ovenproof dish, top with chopped avocado and tomato, sour cream and grated cheese. Place under a hot grill for about 1 minute to grill the cheese.