Central American foods are not as spicy as those found in Mexico, although they are similar and have
similar names. The food is a blend of Spanish, Central American Indian, and European cuisines. The following is a summary of eating habits and popular dishes in the different countries in Central America.
Breakfast may consist of bread with sour cream or butter and jam, or rice and beans in the popular dish called gallo pinto (12,17). Eggs, cooked plantains, tortillas or toast, juice, and coffee are also common breakfast staples
A typical breakfast may include scrambled eggs with vegetables (huevos picados), cheese, fried
plantains, refried beans, and tortillas (15). Fresh fruit is also a common breakfast dish. Seafood is a popular ingredient, and it can be found in soups or stews. Lunch and dinner may consist of refried beans (black or red) or stewed beans (black, red, or white) served with rice or tortillas as well as any type of meat that has been stewed or roasted (12). Pickled vegetables (curtidos) are commonly served at meals and used to season other foods. Common side dishes include plantain, yucca, cheese, cream, salads, soups, and rice (12).
