If used as a marinade, it is best to let the meat or vegetables soak in the spice mixture for at least 30 minutes. Dry rubs and wet marinades are two popular methods of seasoning Jamaican jerk dishes. The main difference between the two is the consistency and application of the seasoning. As mentioned above, I like to sometimes slip in some spicier chili powders into the mix. Ghost pepper powder is probably a favorite. Not a lot, mind you. Just a pinch or so to bring up the heat for me. If you can get scotch bonnet powder, that would be awesome.

It's amazing how much flavor you can get from simple pantry spices. Some of my family's favorite spice blends include homemade fajita seasoning, Greek seasoning blend, and this jerk seasoning.It’s been a part of Jamaican culinary traditions for centuries, and has now evolved in various unique dishes. To use, simply rub a small amount of the 1oz Jerk Seasoning onto your meat or fish. For optimum results, marinate the meat or fish overnight to fully absorb the spicy flavor. Then, cook it on your barbeque or in your oven until it's done to your liking. Great for Leftovers– not only is this recipe great the day of, but it gets even better the next day. Plus, it reheats very well! Cook as you normally would, and serve with fresh mango if you can (the combo of jerk seasoning and fresh mango is really hard to beat!) Sweet Spices – Nutmeg, ground allspice, and ground cinnamon create a well-rounded, complex flavor that also adds warmth and sweetness to the blend. You could also add ground ginger or brown sugar (or Besti Brown for a sugar-free option).

Also known as pimento, allspice is a dried berry that has a flavor similar to cloves. It's essential for giving jerk its signature flavor. 1 Teaspoon Thyme DriedLooking for an easy way to add bold, Caribbean flavors to your grilled meat, seafood, or vegetables? Look no further than spicy Jerk Seasoning. This is a great spice mix to DIY because you can customize it with as little or as much spice as you’d like. If you notice any changes in color or texture, or if the spice blend starts to smell off, it's best to discard it. Dried herbs – Dried thyme and dried parsley give the seasoning herb flavor and some added color. Be sure to use dried herbs that are flaked in texture (not ground herbs that are a fine powder). salt- this seasoning blend includes salt, so you should not need to add salt to whatever you are putting it on.

Jerk seasoning can be safely kept in your pantry if stored appropriately for about 1 to 2 yearsor until one of the ingredients used in the seasoning mix expires. However, it’s very important to keep an eye on the color. If the color begins to fade, then the blend might be going stale. Fresh Thyme– this is an essential herb in Jamaican cooking. It adds strong herbal flavour that can’t be missed!Many grocery store chains across the U.S. carry ready-to-use jerk seasoning paste from manufacturers like Grace. But if you're up to the task of making a homemade version, here’s a Jamaican-approved recipe. To feed themselves in the face of adversity, the Maroons had to hunt, prepare, preserve, transport, nourish and sustain while always on the move—often for decades. Ferguson puts it best: “Jerk is freedom manifested in food.” Place ingredients in a blender and pulse until the mixture turns into a smooth paste. The marinade can last up to six months in the refrigerator. The Grace Jerk Seasoning (mild) as well as Walkerswood Jerk Seasoning (hot and spicy) are the two brands I stand by. They come in both mild and hot, so choose depending on preference. Jerk" became associated with the particular spice rub used to spice up those meats, and the name stands today. Jerk can refer to jerk spice blends, jerk marinade, and the cooking technique in general. What is a Good Substitute for Jerk Seasoning?

When unopened, Jamaican jerk seasoning can be stored for up to 2 years. Keep it in a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight.

Reserved Marinade– use the remaining marinade to make a sauce by cooking it on the stovetop in a saucepan. This Jerk Sauce is perfect for cooking at home, whether you are grilling, smoking, or using it as a marinade, sauté sauce, or salad dressing. With its perfect balance of heat and flavor, you will find yourself reaching for it again and again.