Pumpkin seeds: Trick or treat (definitely treat) from Qdoba

Halloween is still a few days away, but Qdoba Mexican Grill just served up a special treat: a recipe for honey chipotle pumpkin seeds created by Ted Stoner, director of strategic project development for the homegrown chain.

He's the head chef who comes up with all the new items for Qdoba's menu -- not that you'll find these pumpkin seeds at any of the restaurant's metro outlets (not yet, anyway). In the meantime, you'll just have to make the recipe for yourself:

Honey Chipotle Pumpkin Seeds

1 cup rinsed pumpkin seeds
2 teaspoon vegetable oil
1 teaspoon sugar
1 teaspoon honey
1 teaspoon ground chipotle pepper
½ teaspoon hot sauce

After cleaning the pumpkin, clean seeds from meat as well as possible. Place in large container with cold water and soak for an hour, allowing remaining meat to sink to the bottom. Strain seeds and dry with towel. Toss all ingredients together in an ovenproof bowl and mix until uniform. Place in 300F pre-heated oven for 45 minutes to an hour, stirring every 15 minutes. Remove seeds and place in uncovered container to cool.

Once cooled, break apart clusters and enjoy!