Authentic Costa Rican Recipes: Bring the Flavors of Paradise to Your Kitchen

One of the best ways to experience Costa Rica’s vibrant culture is through its mouthwatering cuisine. While staying at Casa Don Marcos, you’ll fall in love with the fresh, flavorful dishes made with local ingredients. Why not bring a taste of paradise back home with these authentic recipes? 🌴🍴

Gallo Pinto (Costa Rican Breakfast Staple)

A hearty and flavorful mix of rice and beans, gallo pinto is a breakfast favorite that will energize you for a day of adventure.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup cooked white rice
• 1 cup cooked black beans (reserve liquid)
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 2 tablespoons Salsa Lizano (Costa Rica’s secret sauce)
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
• Oil for sautéing

Instructions:

1. Heat oil in a skillet and sauté onions and peppers until soft.
2. Add the black beans and a few tablespoons of their liquid. Stir well.
3. Mix in the cooked rice and Salsa Lizano. Cook until heated through.
4. Garnish with cilantro and serve alongside eggs and plantains for a true Costa Rican breakfast.

Costa Rican Ceviche

Perfect for beach days, this refreshing dish combines fresh seafood with zesty citrus flavors.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb fresh white fish (like tilapia), diced
• 1 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
• 1 small red onion, finely chopped
• 1 bell pepper, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
• 1 small jalapeño, finely chopped (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Place diced fish in a bowl and pour lime juice over it. Cover and refrigerate for 1-2 hours until the fish turns opaque.
2. Mix in the onion, bell pepper, cilantro, and jalapeño.
3. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Serve chilled with tortilla chips or crispy plantain slices.

Tres Leches Cake (Costa Rican Dessert Delight)

End your meal with this rich, creamy, and indulgent dessert.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1 cup sugar
• 5 eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 can evaporated milk
• 1 can sweetened condensed milk
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• Whipped cream and cinnamon for topping

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch pan.
2. Mix flour and baking powder in a bowl. In another bowl, cream butter and sugar until fluffy.
3. Beat in eggs one at a time, then add vanilla. Fold in the flour mixture.
4. Pour the batter into the pan and bake for 30 minutes.
5. Once cooled, poke holes in the cake and pour the three milk mixture (evaporated, condensed, and heavy cream) evenly over it.
6. Refrigerate for at least an hour. Top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon before serving.

Pura Vida at Home

Recreate these recipes to relive your Costa Rican adventure or share the flavors of pura vida with friends and family. Want to learn more about Costa Rica’s culinary traditions? Visit Casa Don Marcos for an unforgettable experience that combines culture, cuisine, and relaxation.

Book your stay now! Casa Don Marcos