Jerk style cooking originated in Jamaica and is known for its flavorful, spicy dishes. If you’re a fan of fiery food, then you’ll love jerk style cooking.
Like many spicy cuisines around the globe, Thai, Mexican, Moroccan, it’s not all about the heat. Jerk style dishes are also incredibly flavorful and fragrant, thanks to the use of traditional Jamaican spices and herbs. Jerk style cooking is really versatile with chicken, pork, fish, and even vegetable dishes done on this style. Here’s the core that you need to know about this delicious culinary tradition.
What is jerk style cooking and where did it come from?
Jerk style cooking is a flavor-rich combination of African, Latin American, and Caribbean spices and flavors, born out of the Caribbean Island of Jamaica where these cultures intersected. A true staple in Jamaican culture, jerk style cooking originates from the Maroons in the 17th century who were descendants of African slaves escaping to Woodford Hills, Jamaica. To preserve their food for long journeys over land and sea, they marinated meats with unique blends of spices from indigenous plants like allspice and Scotch Bonnet (habanero) peppers. Yet another amazing cooking style that came from the need to preserve food without refrigeration.
What are the key ingredients in jerk seasoning?
Like Chinese 5 spice or Indian curries, there’s no exact right way to make it. Jerk seasoning is a blend of flavors that vary from region to region, but the core ingredients are habanero peppers and allspice, along with other Jamaican favorites such as thyme, garlic, cinnamon and nutmeg. The habanero peppers give jerk dishes their signature kick of heat which is balanced out by the sweetness of the allspice. Aromatic details come in through the thyme, garlic and cinnamon, all playing off each other to form a depth of flavor that compliments the foods you use it on. Nutmeg adds an earthy note while adding complexity and warmth to this unique blend of spices. Together they combine to deliver one of Jamaica’s best gifts: Jerk style cooking.
How Do I Make Dry Jerk Seasoning?
Creating your own jerk seasoning is a great way to add some authentic Caribbean flavor to your dishes. Making it yourself allows you to tailor the mix to your palate, creating a blend that’s just right for you. Start by gathering all of the ingredients you need dried habanero peppers, allspice, thyme, granulated garlic, cinnamon and nutmeg. You can find these at most grocery stores or online at specialty spice shops.
Pro tip; start with less habanero pepper and gradually add more until it has the desired level of spiciness. Be cautious working with the dried habanero, it is often finely ground which means it can go airborne into sinuses and eyes.
Once you have all of your spices, it’s time to create the blend mixing gently on a bowl Now that you have your blend ready to go, it’s time to use it! Jerk seasoning is great on chicken, pork and fish but can also be used on vegetables such as sweet potatoes or squash for a delicious side dish with major Caribbean flair. Just remember that this seasoning is spicy so a little can go a long way against delicate flavors.
How Do I Make Jamaican Jerk Marinade?
Making your own jerk marinade is a great way to add flavor and authenticity to your dishes. The perfect jerk marinade is all about balance -it should be both spicy and flavorful, with just the right amount of heat. Start with gathering the ingredients for your marinade. You’ll need olive oil, lime juice, garlic, onion, thyme, allspice, cinnamon, nutmeg and habanero peppers. Seed core and chop the habaneros, again with caution. Coarsely chop the onions and garlic. Put everything in a food processor to get a nice blended puree. At this point you have a delicious jerk marinade that pairs perfectly with a variety of proteins such as chicken, pork or fish. Simply schmear it over your protein of choice and let it sit for at least 30 minutes prior to cooking for maximum flavor infusion.
What are the most popular jerk dishes?
From traditional jerk chicken to spicy shrimp and savory pork, jerk style cooking can be adapted to suit any taste. It is also a friend to a variety of cooking techniques. Open flame is the most common approach to cooking off your jerked food. The broiling and crispy surfaces fit right in with the spices and the al fresco feeling of a jerk meal, particularly your marinated meats. smoking is another great way to get an additional layer of flavors in your meal. Shrimp or fish or such will do just fine in a skillet for a quick sauté. Then there is the whole of delicious array of rich stews made with the same flavor profiles in the jerk marinades or dry spice sachets.
What sides go well with jerk dishes?
When it comes to jerk dishes, you want your side dishes to compliment, and sometimes offer a relief from the spicy heat of your main course. There are several types of sides that bring out the flavor of a traditional jerk dish, such as steamed rice and peas or boiled yams. Pair them further with cool, creamy coleslaw or cucumber slices. Plantains and mashed sweet potatoes make excellent accompaniments, as do salads, rice pilafs or roasted vegetables. Consider topping off your jerk masterpiece with a delicious array of toppings such as onions, tomatoes and lettuce, or even some very mild homemade mango or pineapple salsa. It’s important to avoid sides that are too salty or heavily spiced -these ingredients can diminish your enjoyment of the flavor profile of traditional jerk dishes. Additionally, avoid anything with dairy (other than a light sour cream), as the rich taste can waylay the sultry seasoning that marks a true Caribbean-style jerk plate. Above all else, keep it simple but balanced.
You’re Free to Cook Like a Jerk…
Jerk style cooking has a long and interesting history, from its African roots to the Caribbean Island of Jamaica where it really flourished. With the right ingredients, a bit of patience, and some practice you can, too, make delicious jerk dishes in your own kitchen. The secret is all in combining the spices together to create an aromatic and flavorful marinade for your meat. The best part is that you get to create the foods and flavors that bring to mind enjoying a balmy evening in the tropics…in your own kitchen.