By Ellen Hoël
In June, I had a wonderful opportunity to have an overnightvisit in Boruca with my friend Susie Atkinson. Our mainpurpose was for Susie to repair the floor loom in preparation for Sherri’s visit in July. Sherri is a professor of weaving (see issue Sept 15 – Nov 15). We stayed at Doña Marina’s home, and she was a gracious and generous hostess.
All the meals we had while staying there were cooked from scratch, with no processed foods. (The beans and veggies are grown in Boruca). One day, we had tasty chicken cooked in a homemade achiote sauce, a diced potato dish, and a fresh green salad; another day pasta with marinara sauce, rice and beans, and delicious patacones. My favorite dish was Marina’s absolutely fantastic empanadas.
Marina uses dried corn kernels, soaked, cooked, and then put thru a food mill to make the masa (dough) for her empanadas, which gives a superb flavor. She stuffs the empanadas with various filers: chicken, red or black beans, potatoes with chicken or beef. The way we had them was filed with potatoes, sautéed onions, garlic, sweet red bell peppers, and achiote paste. Yummy!
Marina’s homemade empanadas, served with salad and a natural soft drink are a culinary delight, give her a call in advance! Go visit! lunch is $10/person.
InFo: Marina (spanish only) 8780-8648 – Susie (English) 2200-5428
