Rustic Bhutanese Pan-Fried Lentils Curry

Assemble the ingredients: lentils, turmeric, cumin, coriander, bay leaf, chili, lemon juice.

Warm oil in a heavy pot. Add the lentils and cook until pan-fried.

Stir in the aromatics and spices — the backbone of Bhutanese 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 Bhutanese accompaniments such as bread, rice, or fresh herbs.