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...

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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