Get To Costa Rica Tours Blog

Food

Costa Rican food is a fusion cuisine. It combines elements of culinary traditions from Africa, Italy, France, China, and Spain, flavored by traditional grains (rice, corn, and beans), roots, spices (coriander, garlic, annatto, saffron, parsley, oregano, thyme, nutmeg, salt, and pepper), oils, sauces (Lizano, Soy, and Worcestershire), fresh fruit, and vegetables. The food is mild to slightly seasoned.

The most common dishes that reflect the culture and are typically served in traditional restaurants are gallo pinto (translates to spotted rooster) and casados (translates to married).

Gallo pinto is made of rice and beans seasoned with coriander, onions and Worcestershire sauce usually served for breakfast with scrambled or fried eggs and a cup of coffee. Sour cream is a popular accompaniment to gallo pinto.

Also you will find casado that consists of white rice, black or red beans served with pork, steak, or chicken, a small portion of lettuce & tomato salad, and fried plantains. All is served in one dish for lunch or dinner with a fresh fruit drink or coffee.

Traditional food goes beyond gallo pinto and casados. You can delight yourself with more main dishes, drinks, tapas, and desserts. International food is very common also.

Be sure to try Costa Rican coffee, pineapple and other exotic fruits as well as plantains, beans and rice (gallo pinto).

Tags: be sure trying, Costa Rica, Typical food, variety