Gallo Pinto- A Secret Behind Costa Rica
The national dish of Costa Rica, Gallo Pinto manages to pack loads of flavour into a fairly simple set of ingredients. The typical Gallo Pinto is also served with eggs, platanos maduros, natilla (sour cream) and tortillas, making it a satisfying and filling breakfast. No trip to Costa Rica is complete without this famous dish.
After waking up to the birds chirping in the early morning and perhaps going for a walk, catching some waves, this classic Costa Rican breakfast is just what you will be craving.
While many travellers outside of Latin America may have a hard time getting their head around eating beans and rice for breakfast, trust it and do not miss out on Costa Rican Gallo Pinto — it is always a favourite.
Promoting health through diet has become a bigger focus for various researchers. Leading is the Blue Zones organization, revealing fascinating findings on the longevity-boosting powers of humble foods such as legumes, grains and in Costa Rica – Gallo Pinto.
Dan Buettner, the visionary behind the Blue Zones organization, has dedicated years to studying specific global regions, named “blue zones,” where inhabitants shows extraordinary health, with many passing the age of 100. This role is proven that foods like beans, lentils and chickpeas play in these longer lifespans.
“Grains and vegetables have always been an important part of a daily diet in every blue zone I’ve researched,” he said. Buettner analyzed eating habits of the residents of Nicoya who mentioned that gallo pinto was among their primary meals.”
“This traditional dish isn’t just about using life-extending ingredients; it’s about enhancing their benefits through unique preparation and storage,” further commented Buettner.
He states that this much-loved traditional Costa Rican dish has played an important role in the population’s health.
“The dish combines beans stewed with aromatics with day-old white rice. Interestingly, the rice, when cooled overnight, undergoes a starch transformation that aids slower digestion, ensuring a steadier rise in blood sugar,” Buettner pointed out.
Other experts also informed the benefits and nutritional value of Gallo Pinto.
“These foods are nutrient-dense powerhouses. They not only boost energy but also play a crucial role in managing blood pressure. The dietary fibres in legumes are significant in preventing early-age heart diseases,” commented nutritionist Daniela Guevara.
A study from Harvard University, which has been in progress for 80 years, agrees with these statements. The research suggests that for a long and healthy life, a holistic approach is very important. This involves nurturing relationships, leading an active lifestyle, mastering stress management techniques and maintaining a balanced diet.
It’s extremely important to understand the food choices you make and how this essential aspect of life can help individuals lead a long and healthy life.
While many travellers outside of Latin America may have a hard time getting their head around eating beans and rice for breakfast, trust it and do not miss out on Costa Rican Gallo Pinto — it is always a favourite.
