Best 3 Easiest Costa Rican Rice Beans Recipes

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Costa Rican rice and beans is a traditional dish that is popular throughout the country. It is a simple yet flavorful dish that is typically made with white rice, black beans, and a sofrito of onions, peppers, and garlic. The dish is often served with meat, fish, or chicken, and it can also be served vegetarian or vegan.

In this article, you will find three different recipes for Costa Rican rice and beans. The first recipe is for a traditional rice and beans dish made with white rice, black beans, and sofrito. The second recipe is for a vegetarian rice and beans dish made with brown rice, black beans, and vegetables. The third recipe is for a vegan rice and beans dish made with brown rice, black beans, and a sofrito made with olive oil instead of lard.

All three recipes are easy to follow and can be made in under an hour. They are also all delicious and packed with flavor. Whether you are looking for a traditional Costa Rican dish or a vegetarian or vegan option, you are sure to find a recipe in this article that you will enjoy.

**Keywords:** Costa Rican rice and beans, traditional recipe, vegetarian recipe, vegan recipe, easy to make, flavorful, packed with protein.

Let's cook with our recipes!

GALLO PINTO RECIPE | COSTA RICAN RICE AND BEANS



Gallo Pinto Recipe | Costa Rican Rice and Beans image

Make up this quick and easy authentic Gallo Pinto recipe in just 30 minutes! Serve these Costa Rican rice and beans for a fabulous vegetarian dinner.

Provided by London Brazil

Categories     Dinner     lunch     Main Course

Time 30m

Number Of Ingredients 11

3 cups cooked rice (brown or white*)
2 Tbsp. olive oil
1 red bell pepper (finely diced)
1 sweet onion (finely diced)
2 cloves garlic (crushed)
⅓ cup Lizano salsa
½ tsp. cumin
¼ tsp. paprika
⅛ tsp. cayenne pepper
½ tsp. salt (to taste)
15- oz. can black beans (drained)

Steps:

  • In a large skillet over medium heat add olive oil, bell peppers, and onion. Sauté for 5-7 minutes or until veggies are tender.
  • Add crushed garlic and continue sautéing for 1 minute.
  • Whisk together cumin, paprika, cayenne pepper, and salt in a small bowl.
  • Add rice, beans, and seasoning ingredients to the skillet. Stir to combine.
  • Pour Lizano salsa over rice and stir well. Cook for 5-10 minutes, uncovered, over low heat, or until rice absorbs the sauce.
  • Serve gallo pinto with cilantro and additional Lizano salsa, if desired, and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts : Calories 358 kcal, Carbohydrate 60 g, Protein 11 g, Fat 8 g, SaturatedFat 1 g, Sodium 1146 mg, Fiber 9 g, Sugar 6 g, ServingSize 1 serving

EASIEST COSTA RICAN RICE & BEANS



Easiest Costa Rican Rice & Beans image

This recipe was actually posted by TheMom51 in her reply to recipe #78747. I thought I'd post it as a searchable recipe. Her original comment was: Just thought I'd add my Costa Rican daughter-in-law's recipe. It uses the traditional Salsa Lizano (you can order it over the Internet) which is probably why Matoszinho didn't think this recipe was quite right Preparation time does not include time to cook the rice. If you need to cook your rice add an additional 15 minutes to the prep time.

Provided by Chef Johnny Ringo

Categories     Rice

Time 25m

Yield 4 Cups, 4 serving(s)

Number Of Ingredients 7

3 tablespoons oil
1 tablespoon salsa, lizano
1 1/2 cups black beans, cooked
2 1/2 cups rice, cooked
2 tablespoons bell peppers, chopped
2 tablespoons onions, chopped
1 tablespoon coriander, chopped (Celantro)

Steps:

  • Saute onion and bell pepper for about 2 minutes.
  • Add the black beans and salsa and simmer for about 10 minutes on medium heat.
  • Then, add the cooked rice and mix in the coriander.
  • Cooked bacon, pork, chicken or sausage can be added. For breakfast, scrambled eggs can be added.

GALLO PINTO (COSTA RICAN RICE AND BEANS)



Gallo Pinto (Costa Rican Rice and Beans) image

I found this recipe in a copy of Vegetarian Times. Gallo Pinto translates as "painted rooster", and is a dish eaten by many Costa Ricans almost every day. The addition of ginger and Worcestershire adds a quite unique flavor to this dish.

Provided by Kozmic Blues

Categories     Lunch/Snacks

Time 15m

Yield 6 serving(s)

Number Of Ingredients 12

2 tablespoons canola oil
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
3 cups cooked white rice
2 cups cooked black beans, drained and rinsed
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground coriander
1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
2 -3 tablespoons vegetarian worcestershire sauce (regular can be used as well)
salt & freshly ground black pepper, to taste
fresh cilantro (optional)
sliced green onion (optional)

Steps:

  • Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  • Add onion and sauté until it just begins to soften and turns color.
  • Add garlic and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until onion is golden.
  • Add spices and Worcestershire, and stir into onion and garlic.
  • (The first time I made this, I was afraid to add the full 3 Tbsp of Worcestershire, but the addition of the rice balances the flavor out).
  • Next, add the beans and then the rice.
  • Combine the rice and beans evenly and cook until mixture is heated through.
  • Add salt and pepper to taste and serve hot.
  • Garnish with some chopped cilantro or green onions if you prefer.
  • Vegetarians use only the vegetarian Worcestershire sauce.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 249.4, Fat 5.3, SaturatedFat 0.5, Sodium 2.2, Carbohydrate 42.6, Fiber 5.8, Sugar 0.8, Protein 7.7

Tips:

  • Use high-quality ingredients: The quality of your ingredients will greatly impact the flavor of your rice and beans. Use fresh, flavorful vegetables, and high-quality rice and beans.
  • Cook the rice and beans separately: This will help to ensure that both the rice and beans are cooked evenly.
  • Use a flavorful cooking liquid: The cooking liquid for your rice and beans is a great opportunity to add flavor. Use a flavorful broth or stock, or even coconut milk.
  • Season the rice and beans well: Don't be afraid to season your rice and beans liberally. Use a variety of spices and herbs to create a flavorful dish.
  • Garnish the rice and beans before serving: A simple garnish can really elevate the look and taste of your rice and beans. Try using fresh herbs, chopped vegetables, or a dollop of sour cream.

Conclusion:

Costa Rican rice and beans is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that is perfect for a weeknight meal. With a few simple tips, you can make a flavorful and authentic Costa Rican rice and beans dish that your family and friends will love. So next time you're looking for a quick and easy meal, give Costa Rican rice and beans a try. You won't be disappointed!

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