Let’s cook!

My brain hurts…I have not had to use it this much in quite some time.  After only four days (15 hours) of Spanish classes, I have acquired a base knowledge of the language.  COSI (Costa Rica Spanish Institute) is tucked away in the hillside overlooking the Pacific Ocean.  You can see the ocean and all kinds of wildlife from the open-air classrooms.  My teacher, Marian, is really patient with me and very helpful and encouraging. 

Last night we had a cook-off with our fellow students and our teachers.  We were instructed to prepare a meal or a dish that represented our country or origin.  The school provided all of the food and cooking supplies needed…gotta love free meals J There were three groups, the Americans, the Europeans and the Costa Ricans.  There were in total about 15 people in the COSI kitchen with one sink, one stove and limited space (and no AC).  Things got a little nuts, but we had a really great time.  The Americans made hamburgers, salad and milkshakes.  I am proud to say that I managed to scrounge up all of the ingredients needed to make a batch of delicious black bean burgers for the three vegetarians in the group!  The Europeans made some sort of traditional potato dish, I cannot remember the name.  They also made a delicious French chocolate dessert along with chocolate fondue with fruit. The Costa Ricans made rice, pico de gallo with fresh tortilla chips, beans and some sort of pork dish. 

Chad getting messy with hamburger

chopping and dicing :)

My fabulous black bean burgers...not to brag or anything

Once all of the cooking was done we provided explanations of what we made (in Espanol of course!).  Then we all dug in and polished off every last ounce of food.  I have not been so full since I was in the USA!  

Team Europe's chocolate dessert

The mystery potato dish ...anyone know what this is called?!

Chad's teacher, Julia, explaining the Costa Rican dishes

Our school has bats that live on the walls…kind of creepy.  Usually they are sleeping during the day while we are in class.  Last night they were flying around keeping us company as we cooked.  I think I am getting used to sharing my environment with animals and bugs because the bats really did not faze me!

sleeping bats!!!

Time for a little homework and then off to happy hour with some friends at Salsipuedes, which overlooks the ocean and is said to be one of the best places to watch the sunset!