Jerk Marinade

Jerk Marinade is a vibrant spice blend that originates from Jamaica, known for its bold and fiery flavor. This unique blend of herbs and spices adds depth and complexity to a variety of dishes, making it a favorite among those who crave a taste of the Caribbean.

What is Jerk Marinade?

Jerk marinade is a spicy and flavorful seasoning blend originating from Jamaican cuisine. It typically includes ingredients like scallions, thyme, allspice, Scotch bonnet peppers, garlic, and other spices. It’s commonly used to marinate meat, giving it a distinctive and bold taste when grilled or roasted.

The Ingredients needed:

Green Onions: Add a fresh and onion-like flavor.
Thyme: Provides a distinctive aromatic element.
Allspice: The key spice in jerk seasoning, contributes a warm and sweet flavor.
Scotch Bonnet Peppers: Add heat to the marinade.
Garlic: Enhances the overall savory flavor of the marinade.
Ginger: Adds a zesty and slightly sweet flavor, complementing the other spices.
Food Browning: Provides adds depth and color to the marinade.
Brown Sugar: Adds sweetness, balancing the heat and enhancing caramelization during cooking.
Cinnamon: Contributes a warm and sweet undertone.
Nutmeg: Adds a slightly sweet and nutty flavor, enhancing the complexity of the marinade.

Things to pair with jerk marinade

Smoked Jerk Chicken

Jerk Chicken and Rice One Pot

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The Recipe

Jerk Marinade

Equipment used:
Food processor

Ingredients

• 1 medium onion, roughly chopped
• 6 garlic cloves
• 1 small bunch of scallion, roughly chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon powder
• 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1 inch of ginger or 1 tsp of ginger powder
• 6 sprigs of thyme – more time
• 1 1/2 teaspoon browning
• 3 scotch bonnet pepper or habanero (I suggest using one for a mild spice)
• 1 chicken bouillon cube
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• juice of 1/2 lime
• 1 small handful of allspice berries more pimento (approximately 15-20)
• pinch of salt

Instructions

• Gather scallions, thyme, allspice, Scotch bonnet peppers, garlic, ginger, food browning, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
• If you want to reduce the heat, remove seeds from Scotch bonnet peppers before using.  (optional)
• Roughly chop scallions, garlic, and ginger for easier blending.
• In a blender or food processor, combine all ingredients. Blend until you achieve a smooth consistency.
• Taste the marinade and adjust salt, sugar, or spice levels according to your preference.

How to use marinade?

• Place your choice of meat (commonly chicken or pork) in a bowl or resealable bag.
• Coat the meat thoroughly with the jerk marinade. For optimal flavor, marinate for 2-3 hours or overnight in the refrigerator.
• Grill, roast, or cook the marinated meat as desired. Jerk-marinated meats are often grilled for an authentic flavor.
• Once cooked, serve the jerk-flavored meat with your favorite sides.

Note

Remember, jerk marinade can be adjusted to suit personal taste preferences, so feel free to experiment with ingredients.

Keywords: Jerk Marinade, Jamaican Jerk Marinade, Jerk Seasoning