Books & Cooks Letter J: Jerk

This year I’m going to be combining two of my passions – cooking and kid lit for Books & Cooks! I’ll be bringing you great recipes based on spices of the alphabet that pair perfectly with kid lit books! Next up? The letter J and island fresh Jerk!

Spice: Jerk

Similar to my first spice, adobo, in this blogging challenge, Jerk seasoning and flavor can be different among families as everyone has their own special combination. Jerk typically refers to a spicy marinade or dry rub that has a little sweetness to it as well! It’s a perfect dinner dish to try when you’re ready to pull out the grill after a long winter! Fresh flavors and oh so tasty!

Book Review: The Sun Is Also a Star by Nicola Yoon

Natasha has just 12 hours to try everything she can to prevent her family from being deported to Jamaica. She is a girl that focuses on facts not destiny, science not luck. And she’s definitely not the girl who falls in love with a boy in the middle of the street in New York City. Especially when her family is depending on her.

Daniel does what is expected of him. He never disappoints his parents, especially wasting time on poetry and dreams. And yet, one chance encounter with a girl on the street in New York City could completely change the trajectory of his life.

Will Natasha and Daniel give love a chance? Or will the moment pass them by?

Recipe: Jerk Chicken

Just looking at this recipe for Jerk Chicken has my mouth watering and then they suggested serving the chicken with coconut rice (my favorite!) and fresh fruit and I was sold! A few tips from the author – use fresh ingredients and don’t be afraid to really marinade the chicken to give it a rich flavor. This recipe is for a fairly large portion, but can easily be adjusted if you’re cooking for only a few people too!

During the month of April, I’ll be participating in the Blogging from A to Z April Challenge 2020. For my theme this year (Books & Cooks), I’ll be combing children’s books with cooking spices and including a recipe to bring the book into your very own kitchen! I love to cook and read, so I thought this would be a fun way to combine two of my passions. I’m getting hungry just thinking about it! Let’s dig in! And if you want to see what I’ve done in the past, check out the past few years – 2016, 2017, 2018, and 2019!