Rustic Puerto Rican Braised Lentils Bake

Assemble the ingredients: lentils, water, tomato, salt, parsley, paprika, cumin.

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

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