Olla de Carne Tica (Central Valley Beef, Yuca, Sweet Corn & Plantain Broth) – Authentic Costa Rica Recipe

Ingredients for Olla de Carne Tica (Central Valley Beef, Yuca, Sweet Corn & Plantain Broth) (4 Servings)

• 1.25 lbs (or 2.5 cups) tender beef chunks, prepped into bite-sized pieces
• 1.5 cups yuca and potatoes, washed and trimmed
• 1 cup sweet corn and green plantains
• 1 medium onion and 3 cloves garlic, finely minced with fresh cilantro
• 1.5 tbsp traditional Costa Rica seasoning (sweet bell peppers, garlic, oregano)
• 2.5 cups rich culinary stock or aromatic cooking liquid, plus 2 tbsp cooking oil

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Warm cooking oil in a heavy pot over medium heat; gently sweat the minced onion, garlic, and fresh cilantro for 3–4 minutes until fragrant.
2. Stir in sweet bell peppers, garlic, oregano and toast for 45 seconds to release the essential oils of Costa Rica's kitchen.
3. Add tender beef chunks and yuca and potatoes, tossing to coat in the aromatic base.
4. Pour in the stock, bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer covered for 18–20 minutes until tender and deeply flavorful.
5. Fold in sweet corn and green plantains, adjust seasoning, and ladle steaming hot into deep bowls.