Bullets in Her Apron -- A Costa Rican Heroine, Pancha Carrasco ... and Gallo Pinto

 Today, April 8, brings the birthday of the late Pancha Carrasco, a heroine of Costa Rica. Born on this date in 1816, she is a household name in her homeland, featured on a stamp, and the namesake of the “Pancha Carrasco Police Women’s Excellence Award.”


In 1856, the American mercenary William Walker, obsessed with adding slave states to the United States, and who had already made himself president of Nicaragua, attempted to invade Costa Rica. In the ensuing Battle of Rivas, Carrasco “filled her apron pockets with bullets, grabbed a rifle and joined the Costa Rican defending forces.”


Thus she became the first woman in the Costa Rican military. Her strength and determination became a symbol of national pride. 


In her honor today, you might explore the Costa Rican national dish of Gallo Pinto, a beloved blend of rice, black beans, peppers, onions, spices and the essential Salsa Lizano.  You might not find this on your grocery store shelf but it's easy to order on Amazon. 


Here's a link to an authentic version of the recipe:


 

-Authentic Costa Rican Gallo Pinto Recipe: A Taste of Pura Vida - Pura Vida Moms



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