I resisted attempting Jamaican jerk seasoning for years. It appeared unusual to me so as to add cinnamon to savory dishes. Then, I used to be launched to Cincinnati-style chili, which additionally makes use of cinnamon in a savory dish (together with chocolate!). I spotted cinnamon actually may get together with savory flavors.
I figured if I may study to like cinnamon in chili, I may study to love it in rooster or different dishes as effectively. So I tried to make Jamaican jerk rooster seasoning at dwelling. My first strive wasn’t profitable. It seems, cinnamon needs to be saved in a really cautious stability. An excessive amount of, and it overwhelms every part else.
Since then, I’ve perfected the recipe and actually love the candy, spicy, and cinnamon mixture of this spice mix. These flavors could be an acquired style, so don’t hand over if they appear unusual at first. A great Caribbean jerk seasoning balances warmth, sweetness, and earthiness in a method that’s daring however nonetheless versatile.
What Is Jerk Seasoning?
Historically, it’s a daring Jamaican spice mix used to season meats, particularly rooster and pork, earlier than grilling or smoking. Genuine blends could be made as a dry powder or a paste, relying on the way it’s used. This selfmade jerk seasoning model makes use of pantry spices so it’s simple to maintain available and customise to your tastes.
What Is Jerk Seasoning Made Of?
Whereas recipes range, traditional jerk seasoning substances usually embrace allspice, thyme, garlic, onion, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and a spicy factor like cayenne or Scotch bonnet peppers.
The three major substances of jerk seasoning are allspice, thyme, and scorching peppers because the core flavors, with supporting spices layered in. So what provides jerk its taste? The signature style comes from the nice and cozy, fragrant spices (particularly allspice and cinnamon) mixed with warmth, herbs, and a contact of sweetness. It’s that blend of spicy, savory, and barely candy that makes jerk seasoning so distinctive (and addictive!).
Find out how to Make Jerk Seasoning at Residence
In case you’re questioning the right way to make jerk seasoning, the excellent news is that it’s easy to combine as a dry spice powder. You may also mix the spices right into a paste with oil, vinegar, and/or honey. A Jamaican jerk seasoning recipe could be personalized for warmth stage and sweetness, relying on your loved ones’s preferences.
This seasoning is normally added to rooster, but it surely’s additionally nice on roasted greens, different meats, and even grilled seafood. I really like mixing this seasoning with equal components honey and coconut oil to make a marinade or rub. I’ll apply it to totally different meats and greens, particularly when grilling. The combo of candy, spicy, and earthy provides a caramelized, smoky taste that’s arduous to beat.

Jerk Seasoning Recipe
Selfmade Jamaican jerk seasoning recipe with onion powder, cinnamon, allspice, and different herbs gives depth and taste to many dishes.
Vitamin Details
Jerk Seasoning Recipe
Quantity Per Serving
Energy 3
% Day by day Worth*
Sodium 39mg2%
Carbohydrates 0.6g0%
Fiber 0.2g1%
Sugar 0.2g0%
Protein 0.1g0%
* P.c Day by day Values are based mostly on a 2000 calorie weight-reduction plan.
Strive mixing the seasoning with equal components honey and coconut oil to rub onto meat or different meals.
One other Variation
I’ve performed round with this recipe through the years and the above is the up to date model. In case you’re in search of the unique that has a stronger onion and cinnamon taste, then give this a strive.
What Is the Closest Factor to Jerk Seasoning?
Searching for an alternative choice to jerk seasoning? In case you don’t have all of the spices available, a mixture of allspice, thyme, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne is an efficient place to begin. It gained’t be equivalent to an genuine mix, but it surely captures the overall taste profile.
If this simply isn’t your factor, try my different selfmade herb and spice blends to exchange dear store-bought spice blends. Making your personal allows you to management the substances, skip fillers, and regulate the flavors. Plus, when you begin experimenting with spice blends like this, it’s arduous to return to pre-made mixes.
Ever used Jamaican jerk seasoning? What are your favourite methods to make use of it? Depart a remark and tell us!




