The gastronomic masterpieces of the cuisine of Costa Rica surprisingly reflected the local Indian traditions and cuisine of the Spanish conquerors.

The basis of local cuisine consists of farm products: rice, legumes, spices, vegetables, seafood, meat, seasonings and herbs. A special feature of local food is that the dish is not spicy, but a lot of pepper is contained in the sauces that are served to this dish. This should be taken into account by tourists and guests of the country who have an intention to try home-made food.

There are the most common dishes that are served almost everywhere; they are cooked practically in every kitchen: soup, cooked from vegetables with beef, soup made of chutney, rice with beef, bean soup, and stew with vegetables.

The famous local patties with meat, cheese, chicken filling are often served there.

Since Costa Rica is located right on the ocean, there is a very wide choice of seafood here. The national fish dish here can be considered a baked fish ceviche, which, as well as in neighboring countries, is a sea fish cooked in lemon juice, as well as sea shells with various side dishes.

But in general, taking into account the proximity of the ocean, all kinds of seafood can be seen there, and the gastronomic choice is huge.

Banana cakes are served there as a bread to the main dishes.

Meat dishes are usually served with fried psyllium and various vegetables. Rice is usually brewed in coconut milk, after which it acquires a special taste and consistency.

As in other countries of Latin America, corn generally occupies a special place in the home-made food. Home cooks pay much attention to this ingredient. Corn tortillas and various bakery products are prepared from it.

Costa Ricans have a weakness for various kinds of desserts and sweets. So, like Russians, they love cakes, rolls, cookies. But a special place is occupied by local fruits, which are grown on plantations in farms. This is, first of all, mango, papaya, passion fruit and many others.A variety of soft drinks is made from fruits. Local residents are very fond of fruit juice "refrescos", which, in addition to the juice itself, includes milk with ice.

As for strong drinks, Costa Ricans prefer rum of local production, as well as a lot of liquors that are appreciated all over the world.

And at the end of our article, we would like to add that after eating, as expected, Costa Ricans like to drink coffee, which is considered one of the best on the planet. Coffee can be gladly diluted with milk.