Costa Rica on your plate: Delicious foods to try
What's the story
Costa Rica's colorful culture and rich biodiversity give a lot of vegetarian snacks to choose from, especially if you love bold flavors. From the busy streets of San Jose to the tranquil beaches of Guanacaste, these snacks will give you a taste of the country's culinary heritage. Here's what you must try if you want to experience Costa Rica's unique flavors and textures.
Plantain treats
Patacones: Crispy plantain delights
Patacones are twice-fried green plantains that provide a satisfying crunch with every bite. Usually served as an appetizer or side dish, they can be tasted plain or topped with guacamole, refried beans, etc. The trick is to slice the plantains, fry them until golden, flatten and fry again to get their signature crispiness. Patacones are a Costa Rican staple that make for an excellent introduction to local flavors.
Rice & beans mix
Gallo pinto: A breakfast staple
Gallo pinto is Costa Rica's traditional breakfast dish of rice and black beans tossed with spices like cilantro, bell peppers, and onions. This filling dish is usually served with tortillas/bread and garnished with sour cream or cheese for indulgence. Gallo pinto is not just filling, but also highlights how simple and versatile Costa Rican cooking can be.
Layered delight
Chifrijo: A flavorful layered snack
Chifrijo is another popular snack that features layers of rice, beans, pico de gallo (a fresh tomato salsa), avocado slices, and tortilla chips. This dish is basically a mix of different textures and flavors packed into one bowl of pure goodness. Ideal for sharing among friends, or devouring all by yourself as a light meal, chifrijo is both refreshing and tasty due to its fresh ingredients.
Sweet treat
Arroz con leche: Sweet rice pudding
Arroz con leche is a creamy rice pudding dessert flavored with cinnamon sticks, vanilla extract, sugar, milk (or coconut milk), raisins (optional), nutmeg powder (optional) and lemon zest (optional). It's usually served warm but can also be enjoyed cold, depending on your preference. Either way, it comforts you with its sweet aroma while giving you a taste of traditional desserts across Latin America, including Costa Rica itself!