18 Traditional Costa Rican Dishes and Drinks to Order or Make at Home

It was a simple dish — beans and rice — and, yet, the traditional Costa Rican food welcoming me to Doña Mireya’s kitchen table was one of the best meals I’d eaten abroad. This intimate lunch, lovingly prepared by the matriarch of Santuario Ecológico in Monteverde, introduced me to Costa Rican culture in a way no tour guide ever could.

I don’t blame anyone who seeks out traditional Costa Rican dishes at the country’s amazing restaurants, but it’s important to remember that authentic Costa Rican recipes aren’t kept under lock and key.

With the right ingredients – from avocado slices to exotic fruits to fresh lime juice – a little time, and a passion for savoring the flavors of Tico tradition, you can taste the history and culture of Costa Rica from anywhere in the world.

An arroz con pollo or arroz con leche, or just a simple rice and beans with salsa lizano, can change your view of Latin American cuisine.

Let’s dive into the world of Costa Rican cuisine.

History of Costa Rican Cuisine

Costa Rican cuisine is deeply rooted in the country’s rich agricultural heritage and the indigenous cultures that thrived long before European colonization began.

The Chorotega, Boruca, and Bribri peoples were among the early inhabitants who cultivated vital crops such as maize, beans, squash, and yucca, which became the foundation of their diets.

Maize, in particular, has played a starring role in Costa Rican cooking, leading to the creation of staple foods like tortillas and tamales, which you can still find in many households today.

Spanish Influence on Local Flavors

When the Spanish arrived to the area in the 16th century, they introduced a variety of new ingredients and cooking techniques that transformed the local food culture. The arrival of cattle, pigs, chickens, and dairy products expanded and diversified the protein sources in the region.

Additionally, wheat, rice, and many different spices became integral to Costa Rican cuisine during this period.

One of the most lasting influences from Spain is the incorporation of rice, which remains a key ingredient in the national dish , gallo pinto – a flavorful symphony of rice and beans typically served with eggs for breakfast.

Afro-Caribbean and Immigrant Contributions

The 19th and 20th centuries witnessed the arrival of Afro-Caribbean communities along the Caribbean coast, particularly in the province of Limón. Their influence introduced vibrant flavors and ingredients such as coconut, plantains, and tropical spices, as seen in dishes like rondón, a coconut-based stew with fish and vegetables.

Chinese immigrants also played a significant role, introducing soy sauce and stir-frying techniques, resulting in the popular dish arroz cantonés (Cantonese rice).

Modern Costa Rican Cuisine

Today, Costa Rican cuisine reflects a blend of indigenous, Spanish, and immigrant influences.

Traditional dishes like casado, a plate of rice, beans, plantains, and meat, continue to be widely consumed.

However, contemporary chefs are now experimenting with local flavors and global techniques, creating exciting fusion dishes that appeal to both locals and tourists.

The nation’s emphasis on sustainability and organic farming further influences modern culinary approaches in Costa Rica, with a focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients.

Costa Rican Drinks and Beverages

#1

Coffee – Costa Rica’s National Drink

Coffee, or café, has a significant place in Costa Rica’s culture and economy.

Introduced in the late 18th century, coffee rapidly became one of the country’s leading exports. Known for its exceptional quality, Costa Rican coffee benefits from an ideal climate and fertile volcanic soil, giving it its distinctive flavor.

One popular way to enjoy coffee is through café chorreado, a traditional method that filters coffee through a cloth. Typically served during breakfast or the afternoon coffee break (cafecito), it is often paired with traditional pastries, making it an essential part of daily life.

#2

Agua Dulce – A Sweet Tradition

Another well-known beverage is agua dulce, which means “sweet water.” Made from unrefined sugarcane, known as tapa de dulce, it is prepared by dissolving the sugar in hot water or milk.

Warm and energizing, agua dulce is especially enjoyed in the cooler, mountainous regions of Costa Rica.

This comforting drink has been a cultural staple for generations, often drunk during breakfast or as a midday treat, and is a reflection of the country’s agricultural heritage.

#3

Refrescos: Fresh Fruit Drinks

In a nation blessed with endless tropical fruits, refrescos – or fruit-based beverages – are a favorite among Ticos and tourists alike. Also called frescos naturales, these Costa Rican drinks blend fresh fruit with water or milk and sweeten with sugar.

Common flavors include pineapple, mango, passion fruit, and watermelon.

Refreshing and light, refrescos provide a perfect way to cool off in the warm climate.

#4

Guaro: The National Liquor

For alcoholic beverages, guaro is Costa Rica’s national liquor. Made from sugarcane, guaro is a clear, strong spirit similar to rum. Rum is aged in oak barrels, while guaro is not, but they share traits like flexibility and a sweet smoothness.

Guaro is enjoyed in mixed drinks like guaro sour, which combines guaro with lime juice and sugar, and is often mixed with soda water and lime.

Guaro is a big hit and common at social gatherings, particulalrly during celebrations and parties, adding a festive touch.

#5

Chiliguaro: A Spicy Twist

A popular guaro-based cocktail is chiliguaro, a shot combining guaro with tomato juice, hot sauce, lime, and slat. This refreshing and spicy drink is a staple at Costa Rican get-togethers, adding a flavoful kick to the experience.

Chiliguaro, and many other Costa Rican beverages, show off the country’s vibrant agricultural bounty and cultural traditions, offering delightful flavors for both locals and visitors.

Traditional Dishes of Costa Rica

Ok, grab a guaro sour and bring your appetite, because we’re about to jump into the traditional dishes of Costa Rica. From appetizers to main dishes to desserts, Costa Rican cuisine has something fro everyone. Here’s a list of the most popular dishes:

#1

Gallo Pinto

Perhaps Costa Rica’s most iconic dish, gallo pinto is rice and dark beans. Translating to “spotted rooster” because of its light and dark colors, this traditional Costa Rican dish is a favorite among Central American locals and tourists alike.

You’ll spot gallo pinto on restaurant menus throughout Costa Rica, served for breakfast with accompaniments like eggs, bacon, tortillas, fried plantains, cheese and sour cream.

What does gallo pinto have in it?

Gallo pinto is an easy way to introduce a traditional Costa Rican food to your breakfast table. While many Latin American countries have their own variations of the dish, the Costa Rican version usually contains the following ingredients:

• White rice (often leftover)
• Black or red beans
• Onions
• Garlic
• Cilantro
• Red pepper

Finally, you’ll want a few teaspoons of Salsa Lizano, a Costa Rican brown sauce that is Costa Rica’s version of Worcestershire sauce. Throw it all in a skillet and within a few minutes, gallo pinto is ready to serve, and you’ll be transported to when you were last visiting Costa Rica.

If you’re staying at one of Special Places’ casas in Playa Potrero, or any of our vacation homes with fully equipped kitchens, you can easily prepare this dish any day. Here’s one recipe for authentic Costa Rican gallo pinto.

#2

Patacones

Whether you’re scanning an appetizer menu or attending one of Costa Rica’s yearly food festivals, you’ll likely come across patacones. Green plantains are cut into thick slices, mashed into a pulp, then fried, creating a tasty treat. Though you can munch on patacones alone, they’re usually served as an appetizer or side dish.

With a plate of fresh fruit, these traditional dishes showcase all Central America, and these unique Costa Rican flavors, has to offer.

How do you cook patacones?

If you’re searching for a recipe that will please everyone from formal dinner guests to picky children, look no further than patacones. This easy recipe requires only minimal ingredients:

• Green plantains
• Vegetable oil
• Salt

Peel the plantains before cutting them into thick, round slices. Lightly fry them in oil on all sides, then use a tortilla press to smash them into discs. Put them in the oil for one last fry, sprinkle with a little salt, then stand back as your family devours every last one.

Pour yourself a cup of Costa Rican coffee or a refreshing agua dulce as the cooking process unfolds, and watch your Latin American food please the crowd. Why not reward your effort with a slice of tres leches cake or a plate of fresh fruits to get into the Costa Rica spirit?

#3

Casado

If you asked a Tico what are the three most popular dishes in Costa Rica, the casado would always make the list. The casado is a full-blown meal that is often a typical lunch in Costa Rican households and restaurants.

The word “casado” means “married,” and this hearty meal of meat and vegetables is so called because wives would traditionally pack these lunches in a banana leaf for their husbands to take to work. There are dozens of variations, but you’ll certain say “I do” to casado time and time again.

How do you make casado at home?

A casado is a wonderful dish, particularly because it allows you the freedom to express your culinary creativity. The traditional Costa Rican recipes will almost always feature rice, black beans, salad, fried plantains and a meat like chicken, beef, pork or fish. Often they also include patacones, a vegetable hash called picadillo and other sides. Feel free to create your own variation using:

• Fish, pork, chicken or beef
• Mixed greens
• Vegetables like onions or peppers
• Seasoning like black pepper or paprika
• Toppings like sour cream, pico de gallo or avocado

One of the perks of vacationing at one of our Costa Rican condos is that you can find the ingredients for a casado nearby. Head to a market or grocery store and you’ll find most of the ingredients above, as fresh as the Costa Rican breeze.

#4

Chifrijo

Many of the dishes above are meals embraced by other Central and Latin American countries, but chifrijo is 100% authentic Costa Rican food. If gallo pinto is the heart of Costa Rican cuisine, then chifrijo is the soul. At first glance, it’s hard to distinguish what exactly a bowl of chifrijo is.

It’s hearty like a dry plate of rice and beans yet brothy like a soup, though neither label fits perfectly. Instead, it’s best to just call this mix of beans, rice, and pork what it truly is: delicious.

What ingredients are needed to make chifrijo?

Before cooking chifrijo, it’s important to note that this recipe is not as simple as throwing ingredients into a pot and cooking to taste. You’ll need to prepare beans, chimichurri, rice, and fried pork belly separately before combining them for serving. Add these items to your grocery list:

• White rice
• Red or black beans
• Chicharrones (pork rinds)
• Chimichurri ingredients (tomato, onion, cilantro, lime)
• Avocado
• Tortilla chips

Keep in mind that preparing chifrijo is a little more detailed than other authentic Costa Rican dishes. Here is one good chifrijo recipe.

When you’re spending the weekend at one of our Costa Rican beach houses, we recommend opening the windows, turning up your radio, and enjoying an afternoon immersed in the smells, sounds and flavors of the country.

Whether the scent of corn tortillas, Costa Rican tamales, or fried plantains is drifting across the lush landscape, Costa Rican food is an integral part of the pura vida experience.

#5

Olla de Carne

Nothing satisfies quite like olla de carne.

This traditional Costa Rican food is a meal that you’ve likely had many times: beef and vegetable stew. Though it sounds simple enough, you haven’t had a beef stew quite like this in North America or Europe. Costa Rica’s regional vegetables make an appearance in this mix, giving the dish a decidedly Central American taste.

How many ingredients are needed to make olla de carne?

Of the many authentic Costa Rican dishes on this list, olla de carne may feel the most familiar to those residing outside of Costa Rica. Like any homecooked stew, you’ll need the typical staples of meat and potatoes. You’ll also prepare and cook the meal the same way you do any other stew.

The Costa Rican twist is found in the regional ingredients mixed in, including:

• Beef
• Potatoes
• Cassava
• Carrots
• Corn
• Taro roots
• Sweet potatoes
• Plantains

Savor the flavors of authentic Costa Rican food right in your kitchen, and share your favorite traditional Costa Rican recipes with your family and friends!

#6

Rondón

Rondón is a traditional Afro-Caribbean dish from Costa Rica’s Caribbean coast, especially popular in the Limón province.

This flavorful stew gets its name from the words “run down,” as cooks would use whatever ingredients they had on hand.

Typically, rondón features a rich coconut milk base with fish or seafood, plantains, yucca, and a variety of vegetables like carrots, peppers, and onions. Spiced with thyme, cilantro, and Scotch bonnet peppers, it offers a distinctive blend of tropical flavors.

Rondón is a perfect reflection of the region’s Afro-Caribbean heritage and its use of local, fresh ingredients.

#7

Picadillo

Picadillo is a beloved Costa Rican dish made by finely chopping vegetables and occasionally adding meat, all cooked together in a flavorful hash.

The most common versions use diced potatoes, green beans, chayote, or squash, seasoned with garlic, onions, cilantro, and a hint of annatto for color.

Picadillo is often served as a side dish or used as a filling for tortillas or empanadas.

Its versatiliy and use of fresh, regional ingredients make it a staple in homes across Costa Rica, showcasing the country’s simple – yet delicious – cuisine.

#8

Ceviche

Costa Rican ceviche is a refreshing dish made with fresh, raw fish – typically sea bass (corvina) – marinated in lime juice until it becomes firm and opaque.

The citric acid “cooks” the fish, which is then mixed with finely chopped onions, cilantro, bell peppers, and sometimes hot peppers for a spicy kick. Served cold, it’s often accompanied by crackers or plantain chips.

This zesty, tangy dish is a popular appetizer throughout Costa Rica, especially in coastal areas, and highlights the nation’s love for fresh, simple, and flavorful seafood.

#9

Tamales

Tamales are a traditional treat typically enjoyed during special occasions, particularly around Christmas.

Made from a dough of corn masa, the tamales are filled with ingredients like seasoned pork or chicken, rice, potatoes, and vegetables. The filling is wrapped in plantain leaves, giving the tamales a unique flavor, and then boiled or steamed to cook.

Tamales in Costa Rica are often prepared in large batches by families, who gather to share in the process. This dish is part of rich cultural traditions and is a beloved comfort food across the country.

#10

Copo

Copo, or shaved ice, is a popular Costa Rican treat, especially enjoyed on hot days at the beach or in parks. This refreshing snack consists of finely shaved ice topped with sweet ingredients like flavored syrup, condensed milk, and powdered milk.

Some versions, known as granizados, also include kola syrup and a scoop of ice cream.

Copo is a favorite among locals and tourists alike, offering a perfect balance of sweetness and coolness to beat the tropical heat.

#11

Chorreadas

Chorreadas are traditional Costa Rican corn pancakes made from fresh, ground corn mixed with milk, eggs, and a touch of flour. The batter is lightly seasoned and cooked on a griddle until golden and crispy on the outside, with a soft, tender inside.

Chorreadas are often enjoyed as a breakfast or snack, typically served with sour cream (natilla) or cheese.

This simple yet delicious dish is an ideal example of Costa Rica’s love for delicious local ingredients and home-cooked food.

#12

Patí

Patí is a spicy meat-filled turnover popular on Costa Rica’s Caribbean coast. Made with a flaky pastry dough, it’s filled with seasoned ground beef, onions, peppers, and spices like cumin and thyme.

Baked until golden, patí is a flavorful, portable snack that encompasses the Afro-Caribbean culinary influence.

#13

Sopa de Pejibaye

Sopa de pejibaye is a creamy, rich soup made from pejibaye (peach palm fruit), a staple in Costa Rican foods. The boiled fruit is blended with broth, garlic, onions, and cream, giving it a velvety texture.

This hearty, earthy soup is often enjoyed as an appetizer, showcasing a uniquely tropical ingredient.

What else?

Food in Latin America, and particularly Costa Rican cuisine, can make your mouth water just thinking about it. Even the list of ingredients for desserts, like tres leches cake, can prime your sweet tooth.

Cashew fruit, whipped cream, condensed milk, coconut milk, evaporated milk, and sweet corn batter all come together to make delicious treats.

For a slightly less sweet tooth-forward approach (but how could anyone pass up Costa Rican tres leches?), common sides include rice pudding, food served in banana leaf, rice and beans, fresh fruit, spicy pickled vegetables, and pasta salad.

With generous amounts of lime juice and pico de gallo on your corn tortillas, tortilla chips, or Costa Rican tamales, all pairing with arroz con pollo or arroz con leche, you’ll soon see how Latin America and Costa Ricans can modify traditional Costa Rican cuisine.

Your Costa Rica Culinary Exploration Starts Now

Go on. Grab another agua dulce. Which direction will you go – arroz con pollo? Arroz con leche? Costa Rican ceviche? The beauty of Costa Rica dishes is their simplicity, and also their versatility.

You can prepare many of these meals with a handful of ingredients: rice and beans, a sauce like salsa lizano, cubed or ground beef, vegetables, maybe some coconut milk, and tortillas.

So get started today. Dive right into preparing that casado, chifrijo, olla de carne, gallo pinto, or patacones, five of the best traditional Costa Rican foods.

Just don’t forget the tres leches and a refresco to wash it all down.