Most days, but especially when it gets close to lunch time, some of the staff in the office find themselves staring at pictures of food and perusing food blogs. This day is certainly no different, with most being entranced by the delicious offerings of patacones, a delicious treat traditional to Costa Rica. This tasty dish is often served as a side dish or as a starter, and is nothing if not delicious! Recently a tasty recipe was found via a fun blog called “Eat Run Read”, where some folks on a trip to Costa Rica were taught a tasty recipe for the dish, and did their best to recreate it. Find what looks to be a well executed recipe below!

Patacones with Black Bean Dip
For the plantains:

• Slice 3 plantains about ¼ inch thick.
• Heat vegetable oil about ½ inch deep in a frying pan.
• Add plantains, only one layer at a time.
• Cook for about 3 minutes on each side, using a slotted spoon to turn them. (3 minutes is approximate – turn them when browned.)
• Remove from oil onto a paper towel.
• Sprinkle with salt.

For the black bean dip:

• 1 can refried black beans
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon cumin
• Chili pepper or hot sauce if you want it.

Heat all ingredients in a saucepan, stirring until hot and smooth.
Enjoy!