Tamara Castro Monge | Casado Típico & traditional dishes | Miss Charm Costa Rica 2025

black beans

🥗Healthier: lentils

💰Cheaper: pinto beans

Lentils are high in protein and cook faster.

plantains

🥗Healthier: sweet potatoes

💰Cheaper: bananas

Sweet potatoes offer similar sweetness and texture.

meat (chicken, beef, or fish)

🥗Healthier: tofu

💰Cheaper: canned tuna

Tofu is plant-based and lower in calories.

salsa

🥗Healthier: fresh pico de gallo

💰Cheaper: store-bought salsa

Pico de gallo uses fresh ingredients with less sodium.

Cook rice in a pot with water until tender, about 18-20 minutes.

Prepare black beans in a separate pot until heated through, about 10 minutes.

Fry plantains in oil over medium heat until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.

Grill or pan-fry the chosen meat until cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per side depending on thickness.

Assemble a fresh salad with lettuce, tomatoes, and onions.

Warm corn tortillas on a skillet until pliable, about 1 minute per side.

Serve rice and beans side by side on a plate.

Add the fried plantains next to the rice and beans.

Place the cooked meat on the plate alongside the sides.

Top with salsa and avocado slices.

Garnish the plate with the fresh salad.

Cooking Techniques

Spice Level:

Allergens