Coco's Kitchen - Deer Key, Florida

Coco's Kitchen has been a favorite of the lower keys since 1969, and I can see why. Now located in a strip mall, you wouldn't think much of it from the lack of curb appeal, but the Cuban family that runs this joint can cook like you wouldn't believe!

My sister ordered the Bowl of Grits and it was super good and simple. A bowl of flavorful grits, topped with cheese, ham, and fried eggs for $3.25. Rumor has it that the grandmother of the family is Coco and she makes everything from scratch along with her children and grandchildren.

We went for breakfast and I had the huevos rancheros, which is one of my all time favorites. And priced at $3.75, it was well worth it! A homemade tortilla soaking in yummy black beans that were also homemade (my mother found a bay leaf in hers), topped with perfectly medium eggs and fresh salsa.

MY VERSION OF HUEVOS RANCHEROS
(makes 2 servings)

2 small flour tortillas
1 can of fat free refried black beans
handful of freshly grated sharp cheddar cheese
2 eggs
splash of olive oil
salt & pepper
1 jar of good salsa - I love the Herdez brand
sour cream
fresh cilantro

Preheat oven to 450º and put the tortillas directly on the rack. Watching them closely, wait until they start to brown a little and pull them out. Coat each one with a very thin layer of the beans and on top of that, a layer of the cheese. Place them back in the oven on the rack for a few more minutes until the cheese bubbles. Meanwhile in a skillet over medium low heat, fry the eggs to your desired temperature. I think over easy or over medium are best with this dish. Salt and pepper the eggs while you cook them. Then place the tortillas on the plates and top each on with an egg. Spoon over it a couple of spoonfuls of the salsa and a dallop of sour cream on top. Finish it off with a few leaves of the cilantro. This breakfast will certainly spice up your day!

Side note about Deer Key:

The entire island is inhabited by these adorable little deer. The speed limit is 25 mph on the whole island to prevent you from hitting one because they are everywhere! It is so neat. I love it.