This Jamaican Jerk BBQ Sauce can be used with many different dishes. Wings, Pork, Chicken, Tofu, or even as a dipping sauce. Whatever you choose I am sure it will be amazing.
What is ‘Jerk’?
The word “jerk” came from the Spanish word ‘charqui’ which originates from the root word “jerky” meaning “dried meat”.
History of Jerk?
Jerking is one of Jamaica’s most favorite methods of cooking. Passed down from our Taino ancestors. The Tiano’s food preparation method was the process of jerking and poking meat with something sharp, then filling those holes with jerk seasoning, provided the Maroons (Jamaican slaves who escaped British rule) with a much-needed preservation technique.
Jerk pork, in fact, can be traced back to the ‘Cormantee’ tribe’s hunters in West Africa in the days before slavery brought them to the Caribbean This method/style of cooking has passed from many generations and has been enjoyed by many people around the world.
Jerk Sauce Ideas?
The method Jerk and the seasoning can be made in many different ways. Jerk Shrimp, Lobster, Pork, Octopus, Tofu, Mac and Cheese you name it, it can be made. Also, Jerk sauce/seasoning can be infused with other sauces just like this one. Hence, Jerk BBQ. I love Jerk BBQ sauce on my chicken and pork preferably.
How to make Jamaican Jerk BBQ Sauce Recipe?
This particular recipe is my very own recipe. You have different variations of this sauce but I make it how I like it. Which is mild, but full of spices and flavor. You can make adjustments to your liking. If you do not have access to a “wet jerk sauce“, you can use a “dry rub” or blend your own jerk sauce which is time-consuming.
This sauce is easy and I can whip it up anytime, anywhere with the right ingredients. If your spice level is high add more pepper, if not add less pepper. The only thing that makes this spicy is the jerk sauce. Therefore, you can control that.
If you visit Jamaica, there is no way you can leave and not taste ‘Jerk’. Jerk has become an international craze and has given rise to many replicas. But only in Jamaica you can taste and feel its authenticity.
Tips in making Jerk BBQ Sauce
Peppers: If you do not have access to a Scotch Bonnet you can use habaneros. Though, it won’t be the same smell and taste as the scotch bonnet. Many people say it’s the same, but it’s not. I have been eating scotch bonnet my whole life and while it may look similar to habanero the taste and aroma are completely different. The smell of scotch bonnet is just amazing and adds tons of flavor to your dishes.
Ingredients: It varies however, scotch bonnet, pimento (allspice), scallion, and onions are the main ingredients in a Jerk Sauce.
Seasoning: While fresh seasoning is what is used. I went for dry seasoning because it’s way easier.
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Jamaican Jerk BBQ Sauce
Equipment
- Pot
- Bowl
Ingredients
- 1 cup ketchup
- 1 tbsp wet jerk sauce
- 3 tbsp Soy Sauce
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1 tsp nutmeg
- 1 tsp allspice (powder)
- ¼ cup honey or brown sugar
- 1 tbsp Apple Cider Vinegar
- 1 tsp ginger (powder)
Instructions
- In a deep bowl add all the ingredients together and mix thoroughly. You can adjust to taste.
- Optional: In a pot add the sauce and simmer for 5 minutes.