Quirky Foodster

Lunches

Casado (Typical Costa Rican Plate)

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Ingredients

  • - 300 g (1 1/2 cups) cooked white rice
  • - 300 g (1 1/2 cups) cooked black beans
  • - 1 ripe plantain, sliced and fried
  • - 150 g (5 oz) shredded cabbage
  • - 1 tomato, sliced
  • - 4 chicken thighs or a piece of white fish, seasoned and pan-fried or grilled
  • - 2 tbsp vegetable oil
  • - 1 tbsp lime juice
  • - Salt, to taste

Method

  1. Season the chicken or fish with salt and pan-fry or grill until cooked through and golden; set aside.
  2. Fry the plantain slices in a little oil until golden on both sides; drain on kitchen paper.
  3. Warm the rice and beans separately, if not freshly cooked.
  4. Toss the shredded cabbage with lime juice and a pinch of salt for a simple slaw.
  5. Arrange the rice, beans, plantain, cabbage slaw, tomato slices and protein together on a plate to serve.

Introduction: Casado, meaning 'married man', refers to the balanced combination of rice, beans, salad, plantain and a
protein that make up this quintessential Costa Rican lunch plate, said to resemble the well-rounded meals
a married man might expect at home.

Cultural Background: Casado, meaning 'married man', refers to the balanced combination of rice, beans, salad, plantain and a
protein that make up this quintessential Costa Rican lunch plate, said to resemble the well-rounded meals
a married man might expect at home.

Tips: Each component is kept separate on the plate rather than mixed, a hallmark of a proper casado presentation. A squeeze of fresh lime over the whole plate at the table brightens every element.

Variations: Swap the protein for grilled fish, pork chop or beef steak depending on preference. Add a fried egg on top for a heartier version.

Storage: Refrigerate components separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days.

Reheating: Reheat rice, beans and protein separately on the stovetop or in the microwave; add fresh cabbage slaw
just before serving.

Nutrition: Approx. 620 kcal, 34g protein, 22g fat, 68g carbohydrate per serving.

FAQs

Q: Why is it called 'casado'?
A: The name, meaning 'married man', reflects the idea of a well-balanced, home-style meal, similar to what a married man might traditionally be served at home each day.

Q: Is casado always the same combination?
A: The core of rice, beans, salad and plantain stays consistent, but the protein and side salad vary by region and personal preference.