Name: Gallo Pinto (Costa Rican Rice and Beans) Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Costa Rican
Ingredients: 3 cups cooked rice (brown or white); 2 Tbsp. olive oil; 1 red bell pepper, finely diced; 1 sweet onion, finely diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; ⅓ cup Lizano salsa; ½ tsp. cumin; ¼ tsp. paprika; ⅛ tsp. cayenne pepper; ½ tsp. salt (to taste); 1 (15.5-ounce) can black beans, drained

Description

Gallo Pinto is a traditional Costa Rican dish featuring a flavorful blend of rice and black beans, sautéed with bell peppers, onions, and a distinctive Lizano salsa. This easy-to-make recipe combines aromatic spices and fresh ingredients to create a savory, hearty meal perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

3 cups cooked rice (brown or white)
2 Tbsp. olive oil
1 red bell pepper, finely diced
1 sweet onion, finely diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
⅓ cup Lizano salsa
½ tsp. cumin
¼ tsp. paprika
⅛ tsp. cayenne pepper
½ tsp. salt (to taste)
1 (15.5-ounce) can black beans, drained

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Sauté Vegetables: In a large skillet set over medium heat, add the olive oil along with the finely diced red bell pepper and sweet onion. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables become tender and fragrant.
Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for another minute to release its aroma, being careful not to burn it.
Prepare Seasoning Mix: In a small bowl, whisk together the cumin, paprika, cayenne pepper, and salt, creating a flavorful spice blend to season the dish.
Combine Rice and Beans: Add the cooked rice and drained black beans to the skillet. Sprinkle the seasoning mixture evenly over the ingredients and stir well to combine all elements thoroughly.
Add Lizano Salsa and Simmer: Pour the Lizano salsa over the rice and beans, stirring to incorporate the sauce evenly. Cook uncovered over low heat for 5-10 minutes, allowing the rice to absorb the flavorful salsa and warm through.
Serve: Plate the gallo pinto and garnish with fresh cilantro and extra Lizano salsa if desired. Enjoy this authentic Costa Rican dish as a comforting meal anytime.

Notes

Lizano salsa is a signature Costa Rican condiment with a tangy, slightly sweet flavor. If unavailable, a Worcestershire sauce-based alternative can be used, though it will alter the traditional taste.
Brown rice adds extra fiber and nutrition but requires longer cooking if not precooked.
Adjust salt and cayenne pepper to your taste preference for spiciness.
Gallo pinto pairs well with eggs, fried plantains, or fresh avocado for a complete meal.