Sauté the onion

• Heat the oil in a pan over medium heat.
• Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent.

Add spices and tomato paste

• Stir in the spice mix and the tomato paste.
• Cook briefly until fragrant.

Simmer the lentils

• Add the lentils and the vegetable broth.
• Lightly smash some of the lentils with the back of a spoon.
• Simmer until thickened and hot.

Melt the cheese

• Sprinkle the grated cheddar over the lentils.
• Cover and let melt until gooey.

Assemble the bowls

• Spoon the lentils over cooked rice.
• Top with the black beans and any other toppings you like.