Gallo Pinto Express Heredia
Heredial's "Gallo Pinto Express" is a simplified Costa Rican cuisine made from rice and beans, which is usually just a lucky boy breakfast. In this quick version, the taste of Costa Rica is genuine with locally grown spices and ingredients alike.
Equipment
- Skillet or frying pan
- Spoon or spatula for stirring
- Knife and cutting board (for chopping vegetables)
- Measuring spoons
Ingredients
- 2 cups of cooked rice preferably day-old rice for the best texture
- 1 cup of black beans cooked or canned, drained and rinsed
- 1 small onion diced
- 1 bell pepper diced
- 2 tablespoons of cooking oil vegetable or olive oil
- 2-3 cloves of garlic minced
- 1 tablespoon of Salsa Lizano optional but traditional
- Fresh cilantro chopped (to taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat the cooking oil in a skillet or frying pan over medium heat.
- Add the diced onions and bell pepper to the skillet and sauté until they become soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the black beans and cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing them to heat through.
- Add the cooked rice and Salsa Lizano (if using). Stir everything together and cook for an additional 5 minutes, ensuring the rice is well mixed with the beans and vegetables.
- Season with salt, pepper, and fresh cilantro to taste.
- Serve immediately as a breakfast dish or with eggs, fried plantains, or tortillas on the side.
Notes
- Salsa Lizano is a Costa Rican condiment that adds a unique tangy flavor to the dish. It can be found in many Latin American grocery stores or online.
- The rice should ideally be day-old rice, as it helps achieve the perfect texture when stir-fried.
- You can add protein to the dish by serving it with eggs or chicken, making it a more filling meal.
- For a spicier version, add jalapeños or hot sauce while cooking the vegetables.
