POV: How to Cook Chifrijo | Costa Rica’s Traditional Famous Dish

pork

🥗Healthier: chicken

💰Cheaper: ground beef

Chicken is leaner, while ground beef is often less expensive.

sour cream

🥗Healthier: Greek yogurt

💰Cheaper: plain yogurt

Greek yogurt provides creaminess with fewer calories.

cheese

🥗Healthier: nutritional yeast

💰Cheaper: processed cheese

Nutritional yeast offers a cheesy flavor without dairy.

avocado

🥗Healthier: mashed peas

💰Cheaper: cucumbers

Mashed peas provide creaminess, while cucumbers add freshness.

Cook 4 cups of rice according to package instructions until fluffy.

Prepare 2 cups of beans by simmering them with salt until tender.

Fry 4 pork chops in a 12-inch cast iron skillet over medium heat until crispy and golden, about 8-10 minutes.

Dice 2 tomatoes, 1 onion, and 1 jalapeño; combine in a bowl with 1/2 cup cilantro and juice of 1 lime to make salsa.

Heat 4 corn tortillas in a dry skillet until warm and pliable, about 1-2 minutes per side.

Assemble chifrijo by layering rice, beans, and pork in a bowl.

Top with fresh salsa, diced avocado, and a dollop of 1/2 cup sour cream.

Sprinkle 1 cup of cheese over the top.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Allergens