Dinner

Gallo Pinto with Fried Eggs and Salsa Lizano Recipe

Name: Gallo Pinto with Fried Eggs and Salsa Lizano Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Central American
Ingredients: 2 cups long grain white rice; 1 tsp garlic powder; ½ tsp salt; ½ tsp onion powder; 3 and ½ cups water; 1 (14 oz.) can chickpeas, drained (black or red beans can be used traditionally); 2 Tbsp Salsa Lizano; 2 Tbsp olive oil (divided); Optional vegetables (such as bell peppers, onions, or tomatoes); 6 eggs (optional, for serving)

ByHailey Reed February 11, 2026February 11, 2026

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Introduction

Gallo Pinto is a beloved Central American dish combining rice and beans with savory seasonings. It’s simple, comforting, and perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. This recipe offers a versatile base with optional vegetables and eggs to make it truly satisfying.

A white bowl filled with a colorful mixture of rice, chickpeas, and small red pepper pieces, all cooked and mixed together with fresh herbs visible throughout. On top of this rice mixture lie two sunny-side-up eggs, with bright white cooked egg whites and soft, pale yellow yolks sprinkled with black pepper. A small green parsley leaf rests on the edge of the eggs, adding a fresh touch. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 tablespoon olive oil, plus 1 tablespoon for frying eggs
Optional vegetables (such as bell peppers, onions, or tomatoes)
2 cups long grain white rice
1 teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon onion powder
3½ cups water
1 (14 oz.) can beans (chickpeas, black beans, or red beans), drained
2 tablespoons Salsa Lizano
6 eggs (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: In a medium-sized saucepan with a lid, warm 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add any optional vegetables and sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
Step 2: Stir in the rice and toast it lightly in the oil for about one minute. Add garlic powder, onion powder, and salt. Pour in the water and stir to combine.
Step 3: Increase heat to high and bring to a boil. Once boiling, reduce heat to low, cover with the lid, and simmer until the rice is tender, about 16-20 minutes.
Step 4: Stir in the drained beans and Salsa Lizano. Remove the saucepan from the heat and cover to keep warm.
Step 5: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Crack in the eggs and cook them to your preferred doneness. Sunny side up with runny yolks is traditional.
Step 6: Taste the rice and bean mixture, adjusting salt if needed.
Step 7: Serve the rice topped with the fried eggs for a classic Gallo Pinto experience.

Tips & Variations

Try adding chopped bell peppers, onions, or tomatoes for extra flavor and texture.
Use black or red beans for a more traditional taste instead of chickpeas.
Salsa Lizano can be substituted with Worcestershire sauce or a dash of soy sauce if unavailable.
For a vegetarian version, skip the eggs or serve with fried plantains.
Rinsing the rice before cooking helps remove excess starch and yields fluffier rice.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of water if the rice seems dry. Eggs are best cooked fresh but can be kept separately and reheated carefully.

How to Serve

The image shows a white bowl filled with a colorful mix of rice, chickpeas, and small pieces of red and green vegetables. On top of the rice mixture, there is one fried egg with a smooth white edge and a yellow yolk in the center, sprinkled with black pepper. A small green leaf garnish sits on the egg, adding a fresh touch. The bowl is placed on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but brown rice requires a longer cooking time and more water. Adjust accordingly and be sure to check for tenderness before proceeding.

What if I don’t have Salsa Lizano?

Salsa Lizano has a unique tangy and slightly spicy flavor, but Worcestershire sauce or soy sauce can be used as a substitute. Add little by little and taste to avoid overpowering the dish.