Agricultural vehicle in a field in Costa Rica

Costa Rica boasts a wealth of organic produce, making it an ideal destination for sourcing local flavors for your next yacht charter. By choosing to provision your superyacht locally, you support the nearby farmers and agricultural communities in Costa Rica. Not only would you be improving the overall experience for your guests but also making the most of sustainable choices and reducing your carbon footprint.

Sustainable provisioning is an eco-conscious choice and contributes to the overall sustainability of your Costa Rica yacht charter and the wider yachting industry as a whole.

Pejibaye boiling in a cast iron pot

Pejibaye

A pejibaye, also known as peach palm fruit, is an extremely versatile ingredient used in Costa Rican cuisine. The flavour of a pejibaye is described as a starchy, mildly sweet flavour with the texture of a potato. One of the most popular ways to enjoy pejibaye is in the form of a creamy soup. The fruit is boiled until soft, peeled, and then blended with broth, onions, garlic, and other seasonings, resulting in a rich and flavorful soup that is often garnished with cilantro or more chopped pejibaye.

For those seeking a vibrant condiment, pejibaye salsa is an excellent option. The fruit can be finely diced or mashed and combined with tomatoes, onions, peppers, lime juice, and herbs, resulting in a flavorful salsa. It pairs well with grilled meats, tortilla chips, tacos, and tostadas, adding a unique twist to these dishes.

In salads, cooked and chilled pejibaye can be sliced or cubed to provide a distinctive element. It combines beautifully with other tropical ingredients like mango, avocado, and citrus fruits, adding a refreshing and vibrant touch. A dressing of lime juice, olive oil, and herbs further enhances the flavours. 

This is a true must-try for your yacht charter guests and due to its versatility can be used in both savoury and sweet dishes.

A singular sour guava on a grey wooden floor

Cas (Sour Guava)

Sour guava, also known as cas, is a small fruit native to Costa Rica and other tropical regions. Despite its sour taste, sour guava offers a distinct flavor that can be enjoyed in various ways.

It is commonly used in beverages, where the fruit is juiced and combined with water or other fruit juices to create a refreshing and tangy drink. Sour guava is also used in sauces, dressings, jams, and preserves, adding a unique twist thanks to its tartness.

Cas can be added into chutneys and salsas, providing a burst of flavor to savory dishes. Additionally, cas can be used in desserts, adding a tangy element to cakes, tarts, and ice creams. Whether enjoyed as a standalone snack or incorporated into different recipes, sour guava brings its own unique taste to the table.

The refreshing and invigorating nature of cas perfectly complements the oceanic ambience of a yacht charter. Cas offers a tropical flair and a touch of exoticness, allowing you to create dishes that are as visually stunning as they are delicious.

Including cas in your yacht charter menu will impress and delight guests, offering them a taste of the tropics while sailing the seas.

A cacao pod half unwrapped

Cacao

Using cacao as an ingredient on a yacht charter menu offers a multitude of benefits. Its decadent flavor adds a touch of luxury, whether used in desserts, drinks, or savory dishes. The great thing about cacao is that it allows for endless culinary possibilities, from crunchy cacao nibs to rich cacao powder-infused sauces.

Cacao is rich in antioxidants, promoting potential health benefits such as reducing inflammation. Additionally, cacao contains mood-enhancing properties, linked to the release of serotonin and endorphins.

Cacao-based creations boast exquisite presentations, with velvety textures, deep hues, and intricate designs. Cacao nibs or cacao powder can be used as a seasoning or spice rub for meats and as a garnish for savory dishes like chili or stews. Cacao beans can also be used to make cacao tea, which is brewed similarly to traditional tea. It offers a unique flavor profile and can be enjoyed hot or cold.

Several Hearts of Palm with a pepper and corn garnish

Hearts of Palm

Hearts of palm is a versatile ingredient that adds a delicate flavor and tender texture to a variety of dishes. It is obtained from the inner core of certain palm trees and finds its way into numerous culinary creations. 

It is commonly used in salads, ceviche, and as a filling for empanadas or tamales. One popular Costa Rican dish is “Ensalada Palmito,” a refreshing salad that combines hearts of palm with tomatoes, onions, and a tangy lime dressing. Hearts of palm can also be sautéed with vegetables, shrimp, or chicken as a flavorful stir-fry, or added into hearty soups and stews. 

Hearts of palm make a great addition to sandwiches and wraps, providing a unique and satisfying element when layered with lettuce, tomatoes, and other condiments. It can even be used as pizza toppings, adding a subtle tangy flavor, or transformed into creamy dips and spreads when blended or mashed with ingredients like Greek yogurt, herbs, and garlic. 

Hearts of palm offer nutritional benefits, being low in calories and fat while providing dietary fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Visually, these cylindrical stalks add an elegant and fresh element to the plate, enhancing the overall presentation. By serving hearts of palm, you can provide your superyacht charter guests with a unique and memorable dining experience that showcases your culinary creativity and attention to detail, while also offering them a taste of something truly exceptional and authentic to Costa Rica.

Plantain next fried slice of plantain on a plate

Plantain

Plantain is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of ways, making it an excellent addition to a Costa Rica yacht charter menu. These starchy fruits are commonly used in both savory and sweet dishes. 

Plantain can be sliced and fried to make crispy plantain chips, or mashed and shaped into patties for savory plantain fritters. In addition, plantain can be grilled, baked, or even boiled for various culinary applications. Its natural sweetness lends itself well to desserts, such as plantain-based cakes, puddings, or caramelized plantains. 

Plantain offer several benefits that make them well-suited for a yacht charter menu. It is highly nutritious and a good source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, potassium, and dietary fiber. Including plantain in your menu allows for the inclusion of wholesome and nourishing ingredients, ensuring guests have access to a well-rounded array of Costa Rican produce.

By incorporating plantain into the menu, you can provide guests with a taste of global cuisine and a diverse local culinary adventure during their yacht charter. It is also worth noting that plantains have a longer shelf life compared to many other fruits, making them a practical choice for a yacht charter where fresh produce availability may be limited.

With our extensive experience and vast network of suppliers, we are dedicated to guaranteeing that your yacht is stocked with the finest ingredients, including local and sustainable options. From fresh produce to specialty items, we meticulously source and deliver top-quality provisions tailored to your preferences and dietary requirements. Our team are committed to providing a seamless and enjoyable culinary experience, taking care of every detail to exceed your expectations. 

When you choose Maritime Network Panama for your provisioning needs, you can trust in our professionalism, efficiency, and unwavering commitment to delivering excellence.

Contact us today and let us enhance your yacht charter with our exceptional provisioning services.