Gallo Pinto Costa Rican
Gallo Pinto is part of the culinary heritage of Costa Rica and Nicaragua, often considered the traditional breakfast of these countries. Its name, meaning “spotted rooster,” refers to the colorful appearance of the rice and black bean mixture. This simple but delicious dish is a mainstay of Costa Rican culinary culture, served with eggs, fried plantains, and sometimes even accompanied by a salad or meat. Naturally gluten-free, Gallo Pinto is ideal for an energy-rich breakfast.
- 200 g cooked white rice
- 150 g cooked black beans (with a little of their cooking juice)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 red or green pepper, diced
- 2 cloves of garlic, chopped
- 2 tbsp Lizano sauce (or a homemade gluten-free alternative)
- 2 Tbsp of vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh coriander (to garnish)
- Preparation of ingredients
- If the rice and black beans are not already cooked, prepare them separately. Cook the rice until very tender and drain the cooked beans, reserving a little of their cooking liquid.
- Brown the vegetables: In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, chopped garlic and diced pepper. Saute for about 3 to 4 minutes, until the vegetables are tender and lightly browned.
- Add the black beans: Stir the black beans with some of their cooking juices into the pan. Mix well with the vegetables so that the flavors combine harmoniously.
- Stir in the rice: Add the cooked rice to the vegetables and beans, then mix gently. Let heat for a few minutes over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent the mixture from sticking to the pan.
Season with Lizano sauce : Pour Lizano sauce over the rice and bean mixture and season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir well so that the sauce is evenly distributed.
- Garnish and serve: Just before serving, sprinkle with chopped fresh cilantro to add a touch of color and freshness.
Gallo Pinto is traditionally served with scrambled or fried eggs, fried plantains, and sometimes fresh white cheese. It's a complete and tasty breakfast that will allow you to start the day on the right foot.
- Day-old rice : Using day-old cooked rice gives the dish a better texture and prevents the rice from becoming too sticky.
- Homemade Lizano Sauce : If you can't find Lizano sauce or don't have time to make it, you can replace it with a mixture of gluten-free Worcestershire sauce, vinegar, and spices like cumin.