Okay, so we all know food is awesome. Especially when you get to try new food around the world! Recently I've been in the lovely country of Costa Rica and I have experienced some awesome food (and of course awesome people) so here is my list of the top ten dishes I discovered in Costa Rica I never knew I needed in my life.
1. Gallo PintoEasily Costa Rica's signature dish, gallo pinto, this mixture of rice, black beans, onions and cilantro, and a variety of other spices and vegetables the cook decides to throw in there is a must. Traditionally eaten at breakfast, the flavor is mild but addictive and you'll find yourself craving gallo pinto throughout the week.
2. Chifrijo
Chifrijo may actually seem a tad off putting at first, however, once you have it you will realize the combination of flavors is absolutely perfect. A mixture of rice, beans, a bit of pork all topped with pico de gallo, this dish is sure to please and isn't all that hard to make either.
3. Platanos Maduros Fritos
Basically a plantain that is a dark yellow/turning brown, cut up, cooked with butter and sugar and than then eaten. Goes with anything, you should probably start making it now.
4. Frijoles Molidos
Central America's incredibly flavorful mashed bean goes with so much and is great to dip your tortilla chips in! Sort of like refried beans, this dish is good on it's own but also is great spread on a tortilla, some bread, or in an empanada.
5. PatiThis empanada like and unique part of the cuisine of Costa Rica's caribbean influenced Limon province, really packs a punch in the great way. Easily the spiciest food on this list, Pati is essentially dough filled with meat and some chili and some other flavor boosters such as onion in it's most traditional form. Jamaican influenced and coming in a variety of different fillings, this dish is a must try and is so so so good!
6. Torta de Yuca
A great side dish that's easy to make, Torta de Yuca is ground up yuca rolled in flour and then pressed. It is then fried until crispy and goes oh so well with some chicken, rice and beans.
7. Fried TacosThe answer is, yes this is the best thing you will wrap your mouth around (I should know, I accidentally bought 16 once). Found commonly in Nicaragua as well, this is basically pork, in a tortilla, deep fried. Sometimes they add some lettuce and sauces, or they just give you the taco as is because it speaks for itself. Yes it's good and yes you should eat it now.
8. Bread with Sour Cream
I know, this sounds weird. But try it. Buy a baguette, preferably, and dip it in some sour cream. It's actually really good. Like you'll be eating this as a snack every day good.
9. Pineapple JellyThis is easily the greatest thing to be spread on a piece of bread.
10. Papaya MilkshakeI guess I should end it with a drink, a great drink at that! The papaya milkshake is a thick, refreshing, and oh so good, addition to any hot day or just if you want something amazing. 10/10 would recommend to a friend.