Preheat the oven to fan assisted 120C / 140C / 275 F / gas 1.

Heat oil in an oven ready casserole dish and fry the onions for 5 mins until softened.

Add the diced gammon and fry for a couple of mins until cooked through.

Add the star anise, cloves, tomato puree, maple syrup, chipotle and smoked paprika (if using) and mix well.

Then stir in the chicken stock and beans and switch off the heat.

Cover the casserole pot, transfer into the preheated oven and bake for 3 hrs turning half way through.

Serve with plenty of crusty bread.