We firmly believe that a way to a culture’s heart is through your stomach. If you’re vacationing in Costa Rica, here’s some of the top foods you must try!
Ceviche
If you love ceviche like we do (which is a lot) get your fix in Costa Rica. Freshly-caught fish or shellfish are marinated in tangy lime juice which tenderly “cooks” the meat, tossed with chopped cilantro, onions and tomato. Our mouths water just thinking about it.
Gallo Pinto
This beloved Costa Rican staple of rice and red beans is traditionally served at breakfast, although it could be eaten at any meal. Gallo pinto often topped with scrambled eggs and a good shake of Salsa Lizano (more on that shortly.)
Sopa Negra
As anyone who knows a bit of Spanish probably guessed, this is black bean soup, and also a must-try when in Costa Rica. Comforting, delicious and surprisingly filling, you may not think of noshing on a steamy soup in tropical Costa Rica, but give it a try. It’s also the perfect meal after a recommended visit to a cloud forest, where temperatures are cooler.
Salsa Lizano
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This savoury bottled condiment could and should be drizzled on everything on your plate- it’s that tasty. (Okay, maybe not dessert, but who are we to judge?) Found on every restaurant table in Costa Rica, Salsa Lizano is a veggie- and spice-based sauce, and is downright delicious.
Casado
Literally meaning “marriage,” this famous dish is a ‘marriage’ of different foods on one plate. Cosado consists of beans, rice, fried plantain, pico de gallo, repollo salad (cabbage/slaw), and your meat of choice: chicken or fish (fried or “a la plancha” aka grilled), carne de res (steak or beef – usually in a tomato-based sauce, like tomato), or chuleta (pork chop).
Costa Rica Food Tour
To whet your appetite for adventure, may we suggest…
Barrio Bites & Sights – This wonderful tour by Intrepid’s Urban Adventures gets you off the beaten tourist path in San José and its neighbourhoods- barrios. On this tour, you’ll learn about Costa Rica’s gastronomic traditions and history, enjoying authentic Costa Rican dishes along the way. Your barrio walk includes visiting famous San José landmarks, peppered with anecdotes from your expert guide.
Why not have a taste of ‘Pura Vida’ for yourself? Contact an Expert Traveller to create your customized Better Beach Costa Rica holiday- the sooner, the Better!