Casado - Traditional Costa Rican Dish

Casado - Traditional Costa Rican Dish

5 from 1 vote

Casado is a classic Costa Rican meal made up of rice, beans, plantains, a protein (chicken, beef, or pork), and a fresh salad. It is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines essential ingredients for a well-balanced meal. Traditionally eaten for lunch, Casado represents the comfort and heart of Costa Rican cuisine.

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Prep Time 15

Cook Time 30

Total Time 45

Servings: 2

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: Costa Rican

Calories: 600

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

1 cup Rice
1 cup Black beans cooked, or canned
1-2 pieces Chicken beef, or pork (your choice of protein)
2 Plantains peeled and sliced
Salad: Cabbage tomato, cucumber
Tortillas optional, 1-2
Salsa Lizano optional, for extra flavor
Olive oil or vegetable oil for frying
Salt pepper, and optional spices for seasoning

Equipment

Medium pot (for rice)
Pan or grill (for frying or grilling meat)
Frying pan (for plantains)
Knife and cutting board (for chopping salad and slicing plantains)
Bowl (for salad)

Method

Cook the Rice & Beans: Cook 1 cup of rice with 2 cups of water until tender. Heat black beans in a pot (or use canned beans).
Prepare the Protein: Grill or fry your choice of protein (chicken, beef, or pork). Season and cook until fully done.
Fry the Plantains & Make Salad: Slice the plantains and fry them until golden. For the salad, dice tomatoes, cucumbers, and shred cabbage. Toss them together with salt, pepper, and lime juice.
Assemble & Serve: On a plate, arrange rice, beans, protein, fried plantains, and salad. Optionally, add a tortilla or drizzle Salsa Lizano on top for added flavor.

Notes

Casado is very customizable. You can choose the protein based on preference, and avocado or a fried egg can be added for extra richness.
Salsa Lizano is commonly used in Costa Rica to enhance the flavor, but it's optional.
This dish is typically served with a refreshing drink, such as agua dulce or fruit juice.