Today I want to tell you how to prepare a traditional dish from Costa Rican cuisine: Chifrijo. This dish is made with white rice, beans, and pork cracklings, with variations that may include pork meat. It is served in small bowls or individual plates and accompanied by a “Pico de Gallo” salsa made with sweet peppers, cilantro, onion, and tomato, garnished with toasted tortillas. The name Chifrijo comes from the combination of 'Chicharrones' (pork cracklings)...
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Ingredients
Main Ingredients
cubaces beans200g
rice1cup
sweet pepper1
bay leaves3
celery1
grated carrot1
Pico de Gallo salsa1cup
fried corn tortillas, cut into triangles4
pork cracklings, cut into pieces250g
Seasonings
Oregano
Cumin
Thyme
Salt
Pepper
Nutrition (per serving)
Calories
427.5kcal (21.38%)
Protein
19.1g (38.26%)
Carbs
37.5g (13.65%)
Sugars
2.1g (4.26%)
Healthy Fat
14.1g
Unhealthy Fat
7.6g
% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet
How to make Chifrijo
Prepare the Beans
- Step 1
Wash the beans and soak them for a few hours.
- Step 2
Cook the beans in boiling water with oregano, celery, thyme, salt, pepper, and cumin until tender.
Cook the Rice
- Step 1
Boil 1 cup of rice with 2 cups of water, sweet pepper, bay leaves, salt, and pepper to taste.
- Step 2
Halfway through cooking, add the grated carrot.
Assemble the Dish
- Step 1
In individual bowls or small casseroles, layer the ingredients starting with a portion of beans with their broth.
- Step 2
Add the rice and top with a serving of pork cracklings.
- Step 3
Finish by covering everything with a bit of Pico de Gallo salsa.
Nutrition (per serving)
Nutrition (per serving)
Calories
427.5kcal (21.38%)
Protein
19.1g (38.26%)
Carbs
37.5g (13.65%)
Sugars
2.1g (4.26%)
Healthy Fat
14.1g
Unhealthy Fat
7.6g
% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet
Tips & Tricks
Soaking the beans beforehand reduces cooking time and enhances their texture.
You can use pre-made pork cracklings to save time, but homemade ones offer a fresher taste.
Serve the dish warm for the best flavor experience.
Add sliced avocado, Tabasco sauce, or jalapeño pepper for extra flavor and variation.
FAQS
Can I use a different type of beans?
Yes, you can substitute cubaces beans with other types of beans like black beans or red beans, but the flavor may vary slightly.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, you can replace the pork cracklings with a plant-based protein like tofu or tempeh, and the dish will still be flavorful.
How can I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.
What is Pico de Gallo salsa?
Pico de Gallo is a fresh salsa made with diced tomatoes, onions, cilantro, sweet peppers, and lime juice.
Can I use store-bought tortillas?
Yes, store-bought tortillas work perfectly. Just fry them until crispy and cut them into triangles.
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