Costa Rican traditional food & cuisine is known for its diverse and flavorful dishes that are influenced by the country's indigenous, Spanish, and African heritage.
Costa Rican food includes very similar variations of other dishes that you can find in Central America, but each country has their especial touch. Some of the most popular traditional foods in Costa Rica include:
Gallo pinto: This is the national dish of Costa Rica, made with black beans and rice cooked together and then mixed with diced onions, peppers, and cilantro. It is often served as a side dish with meat or eggs.
Casado: This is a traditional Costa Rican meal that usually includes rice, beans, salad, and a choice of meat (such as chicken, beef, or fish).
Tamales: These are a staple in Costa Rican cuisine, and are made from corn dough filled with meat, vegetables, or cheese and then wrapped in banana leaves and steamed.
Empanadas: Empanadas are fried or baked pastries that are filled with meat, cheese, or beans. They are a popular street food in Costa Rica and are often sold by vendors.
Chifrijo: A delicious dish that consists of beans, pork, and crispy tortilla chips. It is usually garnished with cilantro, lime and onion.
Costa Rica is also known for its tropical fruits, such as pineapple, bananas, papaya, and mangoes, which are often used in desserts and drinks.
Coffee and sugarcane are also important agricultural products in Costa Rica.
Costa Rican coffee is considered to be some of the best in the world and it is often used to make traditional coffee drinks like café con leche and café con hielo.
In recent years, Costa Rican cuisine has evolved to include a variety of international influences, with many restaurants now offering fusion dishes that combine traditional Costa Rican ingredients with flavors from around the world.
Overall, Costa Rican gastronomy is a combination of delicious and healthy meals that are also a reflection of the country's culture and history.
If you would like to learn more about Costa Rican gastronomy and culture, do not miss our foodie tours, please Contact Us directly for more information.