What us Jerk?

Jerk is one of the most well known seasonings from the Caribbean.  It has lent its name to many poor imitations as a result of its popularity.

Few people actually know where the name Jerk comes from.  Maroons, the runaway slaves in Jamaica escaped to the mountains and developed jerk seasoning.  It was a way of preserving their meat whilst evading capture from slave traders.

The key ingredients to jerk are pimento, scotch bonnet chilli pepper and salt.  The Maroons would season their pork, (probably a whole pig or boar), then they could carry it with them as they evaded capture hiding in the mountains. The seasoning would preserve the meat for a few days, then when ready they would place it in a hot pit in the ground to cook.  Branches from the pimento trees would be placed across the pit, and throughout the slow cooking process, the smoke from the branches would flavour the meat. 

Jerk has transferred into modern day cooking very successfully and is one of the most versatile seasonings out there.  When searching for authentic jerk you should look out for three main ingredients; allspice(Pimento), garlic and scotch bonnet chilli pepper.

Jerk is by tradition, extremely fiery in heat, however here at Tropical Fresh we have developed a milder version as well as a traditional jerk seasoning.  Our blends are fantastic on literally any meat, fish, shellfish or vegetable.  Please explore our recipe bank for exciting meal ideas.