Description
Gallo Pinto is a traditional Costa Rican breakfast dish featuring a flavorful combination of rice and black beans sautéed with bell peppers, onions, and a distinctive Lizano salsa seasoning. This simple yet hearty dish provides a perfect balance of savory spices and is a staple in Costa Rican cuisine.
Ingredients
Scale
Rice and Beans Mixture
- 3 cups cooked rice (brown or white)
- 1 (15.5-ounce) can black beans (drained)
- 2 Tbsp. olive oil
- 1 red bell pepper (finely diced)
- 1 sweet onion (finely diced)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
Seasonings and Sauce
- ⅓ cup Lizano salsa
- ½ tsp. cumin
- ¼ tsp. paprika
- ⅛ tsp. cayenne pepper
- ½ tsp. salt (to taste)
Instructions
- Sauté the Vegetables: In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Add the finely diced red bell pepper and sweet onion, and sauté for 5-7 minutes or until the vegetables become tender and fragrant.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and continue to sauté for another minute, allowing the garlic to release its aroma without burning.
- Prepare the Seasoning Mix: In a small bowl, whisk together the cumin, paprika, cayenne pepper, and salt to create a balanced spice blend for the dish.
- Combine Main Ingredients: Add the cooked rice, drained black beans, and the seasoning mixture into the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Stir thoroughly to evenly combine all elements.
- Add Lizano Salsa and Simmer: Pour in the Lizano salsa over the rice mixture and stir well. Allow the skillet to cook uncovered over low heat for 5-10 minutes, letting the rice absorb the flavors of the sauce while stirring occasionally.
- Serve: Once the rice has absorbed the sauce and flavors, serve the Gallo Pinto hot, optionally garnished with fresh cilantro and accompanied by extra Lizano salsa for added flavor.
Notes
- Lizano salsa is a traditional Costa Rican condiment; substitute with Worcestershire sauce mixed with a little sugar if unavailable.
- Use leftover rice for best texture as freshly cooked rice may be too moist and clump together.
- The dish can be made with brown rice for a healthier, higher-fiber alternative.
- Adjust the cayenne pepper to control the spiciness level according to preference.
- Gallo Pinto is commonly served with eggs and sour cream or fried plantains for a complete breakfast.
