Diner Food . . . Costa Rican Style

This post is dedicated to Jody (Kate's dad) and Ali.  Dad, this is the Costa Rican equivalent of diner food and it is just as greasy and delicious!  A plate includes a substantial portion of gallo pinto (beans and rice with herbs), eggs (usually scrambled), maduros (sweet fried plantains), fresh local cheese, and salchichon (a blend of meats, likely from a blend of animals, that are fried - most likely in lard - and mouth-wateringly good).  You can also order empanadas (fried corn turnovers filled with chicken, beef, and/or vegetables).  Every time we eat this food we think of you.  Ali, we think of you too, given how fond you were of the feria (a Saturday morning farmer's market).  I especially think of you when I eat cheese or any dairy product.  Here's to batidos, Ali!