Chipotle Chocolate Cookies

I'm done with classes!  Even though it doesn't feel like a huge milestone since I still have 3 years, it's kind of nice to say.  On Saturday during my "I'm not out with my friends" cinco de mayo funk, I decided to attempt one of my favorite combos, spicy chocolate, in a cookie!

Instead of the typical the cayenne, I used chipotle.  These cookies have warmth from the cinnamon and the chipotle, a little crunch on the outside from being rolled in sugar, and a chewy chocolate center.  I made a quick cream cheese and raspberry filling to balance the spice for those with tame taste buds, but I loved them straight up.  They were kind of my breakfast during the rest of finals . . .

Jerk Pork Loin

I can't lie, I'm very intimidated by jerk seasoning.  Ever since a harrowing jerk experience in college where I was reprimanded by a Jamaican chef for drinking water after every bite of his chicken, I've stayed away from all things habanero.  However, I'm not one for being afraid of an ingredient.  It was time to conquer the pepper and the jerk! 

Jamaican jerk spice typically contains really hot peppers like habaneros and scotch bonnets, allspice, and other various spices.  I started reading around, finding what I liked best, and played with my food processor until I got a great wet jerk marinade.  The most important thing is to taste while your making the marinade to ensure you can handle the jerk.