Festival Bissau-Guinean Roasted Lentils Bowl

Assemble the ingredients: lentils, onion, bell pepper, water, garlic, cumin, bay leaf.

Warm oil in a heavy pot. Add the lentils and cook until roasted.

Stir in the aromatics and spices — the backbone of Bissau-Guinean flavors.

Add the remaining ingredients and cook gently, stirring occasionally, until tender.

Taste and adjust seasoning; the flavor should deepen as it cooks.

Plate and serve with traditional Bissau-Guinean accompaniments such as bread, rice, or fresh herbs.