Add some Caribbean flair to your meals with this homemade jerk marinade seasoning rub. Made with a blend of aromatic spices and fiery peppers, this marinade will give your dishes a delicious heat and complex flavor. Use it to rub onto chicken, pork, or fish before grilling or baking. The longer you marinate, the more flavorful and tender the meat becomes. Don't forget to serve with some traditional sides like rice and beans or plantains for a complete Caribbean feast.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons ground allspice
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons dried thyme
- 1 tablespoon ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 scallions, chopped
- 2 habanero peppers, seeded and chopped
- 1 teaspoon salt
Directions
- In a bowl, combine all the dry spices: allspice, brown sugar, thyme, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- In a separate bowl, mix together the olive oil, soy sauce, lime juice, apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, chopped onion, scallions, habanero peppers, and salt.
- Combine the wet and dry ingredients, stirring until well mixed. Adjust the salt and spices to taste.
- Place your choice of meat in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish.
- Coat the meat with the jerk marinade, making sure it is fully covered. For best results, marinate for at least 4 hours or overnight in the refrigerator.
- When ready to cook, preheat your grill or oven to medium-high heat.
- If grilling, cook the marinated meat for approximately 6-8 minutes per side, or until it reaches the desired level of doneness.
- If baking, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and place the marinated meat on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
- Remove the meat from the grill or oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
- Serve with rice and beans, plantains, and a squeeze of fresh lime juice for an authentic Caribbean feast.
Interesting Facts
Jerk cooking originated in Jamaica and is influenced by African, Taino, and European culinary traditions.
The name 'jerk' refers to both the seasoning and the cooking method.
Traditionally, jerk marinade was used to preserve meat before refrigeration became widely available.
The scotch bonnet pepper is often used in jerk marinade, but habanero peppers are a great substitute if scotch bonnets are not available.
Jerk marinade can also be used as a marinade for vegetables or tofu for a flavorful vegetarian option.