Gallo Pinto is considered the national dish of Costa Rica. Ticos, the friendly indigenous people of Costa Rica, usually eat this dish for breakfast with scrambled or fried eggs, but it is an enjoyable food any time of the day. It is filling and tasty, quick and easy to make, and full of fiber.
Ingredients (for 2 people)
- 2 tablespoons fat or oil
- 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
- 1 red pepper, chopped
- 1 tablespoon garlic, finely chopped
- 2 cups cooked black beans, drained
- 1/2 cup Salsa Lizano (the national preferred salsa)
- 3 cups cooked rice (white, short-grain)
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
Directions
- Place pan over medium heat, put oil in pan then add onion, red pepper and garlic and saute until onions begin to soften.
- Add beans and Lizano sauce. Let simmer for 5 minutes stirring from time to time.
- Fold in the cooked rice, reduce to very low heat and continue to cook, stirring occasionally, until all liquid is gone and the mixture is well heated.
- Sprinkle with cilantro and serve warm.
If Salsa Lizano is not available, mix together 1 teaspoon ground cumin, 1 teaspoon ground coriander, 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger and 3 tablespoons Worchestershire sauce and add to onion mixture before adding beans
Recipe from International Expeditions