Weeknight Costa Rican Pan-Fried Lentils Fritters

Assemble the ingredients: lentils, cinnamon, olive oil, carrot, garlic, paprika, flour.

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

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.