Jamaican jerk recipes can incorporate a number of spices and flavors.
Jerk seasoning, a spicy concoction that originated in Jamaica, flavors meat or tofu-based dishes as a wet or dry rub and comprises several ingredients. Cooking the food over pimento wood mixed with allspice leaves and berries creates the depth of flavor found in jerk dishes. Though jerk seasoning starts with just two or three ingredients, you can add a number of herbs and spices to personalize the recipe.
Scotch Bonnet
Of the same species as the habanero pepper, scotch bonnet makes up the base of jerk seasoning. The scotch bonnet, so named for its resemblance to the Scotch Tam o'Shanter, has historically been used for food preservation and to improve digestive health. According to the Scoville measurement of heat, habanero peppers are among the spiciest in the world. To reduce this spiciness, you can replace the scotch bonnet with a jalapeno or remove the seeds when making jerk seasoning. If you use the scotch bonnet, you should wear gloves and avoid contact with your eyes; don't inhale too deeply while handling the peppers.
Allspice
Allspice, also called myrtle pepper, is an essential ingredient in jerk recipes, but it is also widely used in curries and Middle Eastern dishes. Native to the island of Jamaica, the berry grows on the evergreen pimento tree. These berries closely resemble peppercorns and can be purchased whole or crushed, but the whole berries tend to have more flavor and a longer shelf life. Use a mortar and pestle or a pepper grinder if you want to grind your own; remember that the outer layer contains more flavor. When crushed and added to a dish, allspice has a flavor similar to that of black pepper.
Thyme
Thyme, an herb frequently used in pasta and chicken dishes, often flavors jerk recipes. Dried thyme is widely available, but fresh tends to be more flavorful. There are more than 100 varieties of thyme, each of which will have a slightly different flavor.
Other Additions
Like with other marinades and rubs, you can add your own personal flavor to your jerk recipe. Though every jerk rub or mix should include the above ingredients, what comes next is a matter of personal taste. Cloves, a dried flower bud with a strong, spicy flavor, and slightly sweet nutmeg are common additions. Experiment with the amounts of these spices, particularly cloves, since their flavor can be overwhelming. Start with just a pinch and build from there until you achieve your desired flavor.
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