This homemade jerk seasoning is such a versatile spice blend. Use it on chicken, beef, shrimp or fish and you are sure to have a great meal. This blend is sure to become a household favorite.Â
I love this recipe because I can put it on so many different things. I have even used this as a sprinkle on my french fries. I started using this version of jerk spices after I tried to make jerked Cornish game hens. While I did like the end result I felt that it needed a little bit more. So I have been experimenting with different ratios and adding additional spices to get the one I like the most.Â
In this recipe
Almost all Jamaican jerk consists of allspice and peppers as a foundation and then other herbs and spices such as cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, garlic powder, onion powder and the like can be added. Traditionally it is made with scotch bonnet peppers which is what causes it to be so spicy. I have found that a lot of my friends cannot handle that level of spice so I use cayenne pepper instead.Â
Making jerk seasoning
One of the nice things about this seasoning is that you can alter it a little bit to fit your tastes. If you like really spicy add more pepper or add scotch bonnets. If you don’t like a lot of heat you can remove some of the pepper as well. The cool thing is that traditional jerk cooking is done in a smoker to add additional flavors. When you have the time I would always encourage smoking the food if possible.Â
Looking for other spice blends?
Homemade Jerk Seasoning
Equipment
- Mason jar
Ingredients
- 3 tbsp brown sugar packed
- 2 tbsp garlic powder
- 2 tbsp onion powder
- 1½ tbsp parsley
- 1½ tbsp thyme
- 1½ tbsp cinnamon
- 1½ tbsp paprika
- 1 tbsp allspice
- 1 tbsp pepper
- ½ tbsp cayenne pepper
- ½ tbsp red pepper flakes
- ½ tbsp salt
- ½ tbsp nutmeg
- 1 tsp cloves
Instructions
- In a mason jar add all of the ingredients. Close the lid and shake until everything is evenly mixed.
Nutrition
