Top Costa Rican Dishes to Try

Written By: Sophie Echeverry

All about Costa Rican Cuisine

Welcome to Costa Rica, a captivating land where verdant rainforests meet pristine coastlines against a backdrop of dramatic volcanic peaks. Located between the Caribbean Sea and the Pacific Ocean, Costa Rica's geography is as diverse as its wildlife, offering a rich variety of landscapes to explore. From the misty cloud forests and sun-kissed, to the rich and diverse Costa Rican cuisine, this Central American paradise invites discovery and adventure. 

The diverse landscape of Costa Rica is a direct reflection to the local cuisine. Its vibrant fusion of flavors draws influences from indigenous traditions, Spanish colonial heritage, and Afro-Caribbean culture. From hearty rice and beans to delicate seafood dishes, the culinary landscape of Costa Rica offers a delightful journey for food enthusiasts. Tag along to explore some of the must-try dishes that encapsulate the essence of Costa Rican gastronomy and get familiarized with the tastes that await before joining one of our Self-Guided or Small Group Trips. 

Arroz con Pollo, credit: Aleat88

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Costa Rica’s essential Must-Try’s

Chorreadas:

Chorreadas, credit: Aleat88

Chorreadas in Costa Rica are a beloved culinary delight, epitomizing the country's rich gastronomic heritage. These delectable corn pancakes, made from freshly ground corn kernels mixed with eggs, milk, sugar, and a hint of vanilla, offer a taste of tradition with every bite. Cooked to golden perfection on a hot griddle, chorreadas boast a delightful contrast of crispy edges and soft, fluffy centers. Often served with a dollop of sour cream or sprinkled with grated cheese, these savory-sweet delights are a staple of Costa Rican breakfast tables and street food stalls, showcasing the simplicity and ingenuity of the local cuisine.

Gallo Pinto:

Composed of rice and beans, often black or red, Gallo Pinto could be considered Costa Rica’s national dish. Its symphony of flavors - such as cumin, cilantro, and bell peppers - give it a distinctive taste that tantalizes the palate. For breakfast it comes served with scrambled or fried eggs, ripe plantains, and a generous amount of a Costa Rican product called Lizano sauce – a slightly sweet, tangy and spicy sauce. This dish is not only a morning favorite but also a ubiquitous presence on Costa Rican tables throughout the day. Beyond its delicious flavors, Gallo pinto symbolizes the fusion of indigenous, Spanish, and Afro-Caribbean influences that define Costa Rican culture, making it not just a meal but a celebration of the nation's vibrant identity.

Casado:

Casado, which means "married" in Spanish, is a go-to Costa Rican dish that embodies the country's vibrant culinary heritage. Traditionally served as a lunchtime staple, a casado consists of a hearty combination of rice, beans, plantains, salad, and a choice of protein such as grilled chicken, beef, pork, or fish. The beauty of Casado lies in its simplicity and versatility, reflecting the agricultural abundance and cultural fusion of Costa Rica. It offers a blend of flavors and textures that satisfy both locals and visitors alike, making it a beloved symbol of Costa Rican cuisine and hospitality.

Ceviche:

As a coastal nation, Costa Rica boasts an abundance of fresh seafood, and ceviche is a common staple found at ramshackle stalls near the beach as well as on the menu of many restaurants. This zesty dish features raw fish marinated in lime juice, mixed with onions, peppers, cilantro, and sometimes a hint of spicy chili. Served with crispy tortilla chips, plantain chips or soda crackers, ceviche is a refreshing and invigorating treat on a hot day.

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Afro-Influence in Costa Rican Cuisine

Sopa Negra, credit: Aleat88

Sopa Negra:

Costa Rican Sopa Negra, or "black soup," is a flavorful and hearty dish that holds a special place in the country's culinary heritage. Originating from the Afro-Costa Rican community along the Caribbean coast, this dish features a base of black beans simmered with aromatic spices like garlic, onion, and cilantro, resulting in a rich and deeply flavorful broth. The soup often includes ingredients such as poached eggs, rice, avocado slices, and sometimes even a splash of coconut milk for added creaminess. Served piping hot and garnished with fresh lime juice and chopped cilantro, Sopa Negra is not only a delicious comfort food but also a celebration of Costa Rica's diverse cultural influences and culinary traditions.

Arroz con Pollo:

Arroz con Pollo, or rice with chicken, is a comforting and aromatic dish that showcases the skillful blending of spices in Costa Rican cuisine. This hearty one-pot meal reflects the country's culinary heritage, blending influences from Spanish, Indigenous, and African traditions. The dish typically begins with chicken pieces marinated in garlic, lime juice, and cilantro, then sautéed with bell peppers, onions, and carrots to create a savory base. The rice, cooked in a broth seasoned with cumin, oregano, and annatto, absorbs the essence of the chicken and vegetables, resulting in a dish that is both comforting and satisfying. 

Rondón:

This Costa Rican national dish is deeply rooted in the country's Afro-Caribbean heritage, reflecting a harmonious blend of flavors and cultural influences. This hearty stew typically features a variety of fresh seafood, including fish, shrimp, and sometimes crab or lobster, simmered in a rich coconut milk broth infused with aromatic spices such as garlic, onion, and chili peppers. Traditionally, it is served with starchy vegetables like yuca, plantains, and sweet potatoes. Rondón’s blend of textures and tastes range from creamy to savory with a hint of sweetness from the coconut. Often prepared communally and enjoyed as a celebration of community, Rondon embodyies the essence of sharing good food and good company.

Rondon, credit: Aleat88

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Costa Rica’s Treats

Coffee: 

One of the most beloved Costa Rican drinks is locally grown coffee, known for its high-quality Arabica beans grown in fertile volcanic soil. Visitors can savor freshly brewed cups of rich, smooth coffee while exploring the country's coffee plantations in regions like the Central Valley. 

Costa Rican Drinks: 

Additionally, tropical fruits are abundant in Costa Rica, inspiring a variety of refreshing beverages such as batidos (fruit smoothies) and refrescos (fruit juices). Local tropical fruits on offer vary by season, with popular options ranging from Guanabana to Mango, Passionfruit (Maracuya) and Tamarindo. For those seeking a taste of local tradition, horchata, a sweet and creamy rice-based drink flavored with cinnamon, offers a delightful respite from the tropical heat. 

Costa Rican Desserts:

Tres Leches Cake, credit: Hungry Dudes

For those who always travel with a sweet tooth, “tres leches' is a moist sponge cake soaked in three types of milk (hence the name), evaporated, condensed, and heavy cream. This results in a decadent, creamy texture that melts in your mouth. “Arroz con leche' is a comforting rice pudding infused with cinnamon and sweetened with condensed milk, offering a comforting taste of home. For those with a penchant for tropical flavors, 'torta negra' beckons with its rich blend of dried fruits, nuts, and spices soaked in rum, making it a dense, indulgent cake that embodies the essence of Costa Rican hospitality.

Of course, with a strong presence of cacao farms throughout the country, rich chocalate-driven desserts are another common feature on many dessert menus.

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Costa Rica is not just a destination; it's an experience that leaves an indelible mark on the heart, soul, and tastebuds. Whether you seek adventure in the depths of its jungles, serenity on its sun-drenched beaches, or connection with its warm and welcoming people, Costa Rica offers something truly special for every traveler. With its commitment to sustainability and preservation of its natural treasures, visiting Costa Rica is not only an opportunity to immerse yourself in unparalleled beauty but also to contribute to the preservation of one of the world's most precious ecosystems. Join a small group departure or create your own custom dates to experience the Pura Vida spirit that permeates every corner of this enchanting country.

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