Jerk Seasoning

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This homemade Jerk Seasoning blend is the key to deliciously flavorful Jamaican-style cooking. Made with a combination of 13 different pantry spices, it’s a delicious blend of savory and sweet that transforms any of your favorite meats, vegetables, or seafood.

When it comes to my favorite foods, one thing is always true. I love big, bold flavors. And I love trying different spice blends! From blackened seasoning to homemade taco seasoning, I’m always up for a new flavor adventure. And this Jamaican Jerk Seasoning definitely fits the bill.

It’s a delicious combination of herbs and spices that hits savory, sweet, and spicy notes all at once. It’s traditionally used to make Jamaican Jerk Chicken, but can be used to season anything from meats and seafood to vegetables, rice and beans.

I recently used mine to make the most delicious Jerk Chicken Salad – an easy twist on a classic we’ll definitely be making on repeat.

And of course you can always buy jerk seasoning at the grocery store, but making it yourself allows you to adjust the flavors and spice levels to suit your tastes.

what is jerk cooking?

Jerk is a Jamaican style of cooking, in which meat is dry-rubbed or wet-marinated with a spice mixture called Jamaican jerk spice. It is believed to have originated from Jamaica’s indigenous people during the 17th century. It has since become popular all over the world, anywhere a significant population of Caribbean descent exists.

what ingredients are used in jerk cooking?

Jerk seasoning is typically used as a marinade or dry rub on meats such as chicken thighs, beef, lamb, fish, or shrimp. Other ingredients commonly used in jerk cooking include habanero or scotch bonnet peppers, red pepper, red onion, green onion, and fresh herbs.

what you’ll need for this recipe

Jerk seasoning can be made with a variety of different spices and proportions, but always contains a blend of savory and sweet flavors, cool and warm spices.

• Garlic powder & Onion powder: These are key ingredients in jerk seasoning and should definitely be included.
• Ground cinnamon, Ground allspice, Ginger & Nutmeg: These spices add depth of flavor and a warm earthiness. Ground cloves may also be included.
• Paprika: This aromatic spice add rich color and delicious flavor. Substitute smoked paprika for a smoky flavor profile.
• Cayenne pepper: Cayenne adds a level of spice that is a key element in this seasoning. Adjust the amount according to your tastes.
• Dried thyme & Dried parsley: These herbs add flavor and aroma. Add dried sage or dried marjoram.
• Salt & Black pepper: Salt & pepper bring out all the flavors of the other herbs and spices. Adjust the levels according to your tastes.
• Brown sugar: Brown sugar adds the sweetness that’s characteristic of jerk seasoning. Substitute turbinado or dark brown sugar.

jerk seasoning vs. cajun seasoning

Is jerk seasoning the same as cajun seasoning? The answer is no, they are different spice blends. Jerk combines spicy, savory, and sweet flavors while Cajun focuses more on herbs, hot peppers, and spices. The two spice blends cannot be used interchangeably in recipes.