Homestyle Costa Rican Spiced Cheese Stew

Assemble the ingredients: cheese, olive oil, salt, bay leaf, chili, butter, potato.

Warm oil in a heavy pot. Add the cheese and cook until spiced.

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