Get ready to ignite your taste buds with these 19 authentic spicy jerk recipes from around the world! Jerk seasoning, a blend of aromatic spices and herbs including allspice, thyme, and scotch bonnet peppers, originated in Jamaica and has since become a staple in Caribbean cuisine. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just looking to add some excitement to your meals, these mouth-watering recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings.
From classic jerk chicken and pork tenderloin to innovative applications on seafood, beef, and even vegetables, we’ve gathered the best of the best to share with you. In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through the bold flavors and aromas of jerk cuisine, featuring recipes that are sure to become new favorites in your kitchen.
Jerk Chicken with Pineapple Salsa
A flavorful Caribbean-inspired dish that combines the bold spices of jerk seasoning with the sweetness of pineapple salsa.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tbsp jerk seasoning
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1/4 cup pineapple chunks
– 1/4 cup red onion, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 tbsp lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together jerk seasoning and olive oil.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the chicken breasts.
4. Place chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, combine pineapple chunks, red onion, jalapeño pepper, and lime juice in a bowl.
6. Serve jerk chicken with pineapple salsa spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Jerk Pork Tenderloin with Mango Glaze
Elevate your dinner game with this sweet and savory recipe that combines the bold flavors of jerk seasoning with the tropical sweetness of mango. This dish is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1-2 pound) pork tenderloin
– 2 tablespoons jerk seasoning
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup mango puree
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together jerk seasoning, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the mixture all over the pork tenderloin, making sure to coat it evenly.
4. Place the pork on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
5. While the pork is cooking, combine mango puree, honey, soy sauce, and grated ginger in a small saucepan.
6. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat and cook for 5-7 minutes or until thickened slightly.
7. Brush the glaze all over the pork during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Jerk Shrimp Skewers with Coconut Rice
Elevate your outdoor gatherings with this Caribbean-inspired dish, featuring succulent shrimp skewers smothered in a spicy jerk seasoning and served alongside fluffy coconut rice.
Ingredients:
For the Jerk Shrimp Skewers:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons jerk seasoning
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 lime, juiced
For the Coconut Rice:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 1 cup coconut milk
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together jerk seasoning and olive oil. Add shrimp; toss to coat.
3. Thread shrimp onto skewers, leaving space between each piece.
4. Grill skewers for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, cook coconut rice according to package instructions or by bringing mixture to a boil, then reducing heat and simmering for 15-20 minutes.
6. Serve jerk shrimp skewers atop coconut rice; garnish with lime wedges.
Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
Jerk Salmon with Avocado Cream
Elevate your seafood game with this Caribbean-inspired recipe that combines the bold flavors of jerk seasoning with the creaminess of avocado.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup jerk seasoning
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 avocados, ripe
– 1 lime, juiced
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together jerk seasoning and olive oil.
3. Place the salmon fillets in a shallow baking dish and brush the jerk mixture evenly over both sides of the fish.
4. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
5. While the salmon is cooking, cut the avocados in half and remove the pit. Scoop the flesh into a bowl and add lime juice, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.
6. Serve the jerk salmon with a dollop of avocado cream on top. Garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Jerk Beef Kabobs with Grilled Vegetables
Experience the bold flavors of Jamaica with this easy and delicious recipe, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or outdoor gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef sirloin or ribeye, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1/4 cup jerk seasoning
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp lime juice
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp onion powder
– 1 bell pepper, any color, cut into large pieces
– 1 zucchini, sliced
– 1 yellow squash, sliced
– 10-12 bamboo skewers
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together jerk seasoning, brown sugar, soy sauce, lime juice, garlic powder, and onion powder.
3. Thread beef cubes onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Brush the jerk mixture evenly over the beef cubes.
5. Grill kabobs for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, or until beef reaches desired level of doneness.
6. Meanwhile, brush bell pepper, zucchini, and yellow squash with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
7. Grill vegetables alongside kabobs for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until tender.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Jerk Turkey Burgers with Caribbean Slaw
Elevate your burger game with this flavorful twist on a classic, featuring spicy jerk seasoning and a refreshing Caribbean slaw.
Ingredients:
For the Jerk Turkey Burgers:
– 1 pound ground turkey breast
– 2 tablespoons jerk seasoning
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
For the Caribbean Slaw:
– 1 cup shredded cabbage
– 1 cup shredded carrots
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, jerk seasoning, olive oil, onion, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Form into 4 patties and cook for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, mix slaw ingredients in a separate bowl.
5. Assemble burgers with desired toppings and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Jerk Lamb Chops with Mint Chimichurri
Experience the bold flavors of the Caribbean with this mouthwatering recipe, featuring jerk-seasoned lamb chops served with a refreshing mint chimichurri sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound lamb chops
– 2 tablespoons jerk seasoning
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1/4 cup mint chimichurri sauce (see below)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Mint Chimichurri Sauce:
– 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together jerk seasoning and olive oil.
3. Brush lamb chops with the jerk mixture on both sides.
4. Grill lamb chops for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired level of doneness.
5. Meanwhile, stir mint chimichurri sauce ingredients in a small bowl.
6. Serve lamb chops hot with mint chimichurri sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Jerk Tofu Tacos with Mango Salsa
Elevate your taco game with this unique fusion of Caribbean and Mexican flavors. Crispy jerk seasoned tofu, tangy mango salsa, and crunchy slaw come together in a delightful harmony.
Ingredients:
– 1 block extra-firm tofu, drained and cut into small cubes
– 2 tbsp jerk seasoning
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 8 tacos shells
– Mango Salsa (see below)
– Coleslaw (store-bought or homemade)
– Lime wedges, for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss tofu with jerk seasoning and olive oil. Spread on a baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until crispy.
3. Warm tacos shells according to package instructions.
4. Assemble tacos by placing jerky tofu into shells, topping with mango salsa, coleslaw, and a squeeze of lime juice.
Mango Salsa:
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 tbsp lime juice
– Salt, to taste
Combine all ingredients in a bowl. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Jerk Duck Breast with Orange Reduction
This Caribbean-inspired dish combines the bold flavors of jerk seasoning with the sweetness of orange reduction, resulting in a tender and flavorful duck breast.
Ingredients:
– 4 duck breasts
– 2 tbsp jerk seasoning
– 1 tsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp olive oil
– 1 orange, peeled and segmented
– 1 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together jerk seasoning, brown sugar, soy sauce, and olive oil.
3. Rub the mixture all over the duck breasts, making sure to coat them evenly.
4. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the duck breasts for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they reach your desired level of doneness.
5. Transfer the duck breasts to a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for an additional 10-12 minutes, or until cooked through.
6. While the duck is cooking, reduce the orange segments and chicken broth in a saucepan over medium heat until the mixture has thickened slightly, stirring occasionally.
7. Serve the duck breasts with the orange reduction spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Jerk Cauliflower Steaks with Coconut Curry
Elevate your veggie game with this bold and aromatic recipe that combines the spices of jerk seasoning with the creamy richness of coconut curry. Perfect as a main dish or side, these cauliflower steaks will transport you to the Caribbean.
Ingredients:
– 2 heads of cauliflower
– 1/4 cup jerk seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can full-fat coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons curry powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse cauliflower heads and remove leaves and stems. Cut into 1-inch thick slabs.
3. In a bowl, mix together jerk seasoning and olive oil. Add the cauliflower steaks and toss to coat evenly.
4. Place the cauliflower on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and slightly caramelized.
5. While the cauliflower is roasting, sauté the onion and garlic in a pan until softened. Stir in curry powder and cook for 1 minute.
6. Add coconut milk to the pan and stir to combine. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 5-7 minutes or until thickened slightly.
7. Serve the roasted cauliflower steaks with the coconut curry sauce spooned over top. Garnish with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Jerk Ribs with Guava BBQ Sauce
Experience the bold flavors of Jamaica with this mouthwatering recipe that combines tender pork ribs with a sweet and spicy guava barbecue sauce.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds pork ribs
– 1/4 cup jerk seasoning
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1/4 cup guava BBQ sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together jerk seasoning, brown sugar, soy sauce, and olive oil.
3. Remove membrane from back of ribs and apply the jerk rub evenly, making sure to coat all surfaces.
4. Place ribs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, bone side down.
5. Bake for 2 hours or until tender and slightly caramelized.
6. Brush guava BBQ sauce over ribs during last 10 minutes of cooking time.
7. Garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 2 hours 10 minutes
Jerk Snapper with Plantain Chips
Experience the bold flavors of the Caribbean with this mouthwatering Jerk Snapper recipe, served with crispy Plantain Chips.
Ingredients:
– 4 snapper fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup jerk seasoning
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 3-4 ripe plantains
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together jerk seasoning, brown sugar, soy sauce, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the snapper fillets in a shallow dish and brush with the jerk mixture.
4. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, slice the plantains into 1/8-inch thick rounds.
6. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
7. Fry the plantain chips in batches until golden brown (about 3-4 minutes per batch).
8. Drain on paper towels and serve with Jerk Snapper.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Jerk Sausage and Peppers with Rice and Beans
Savor the bold flavors of Jamaica with this hearty one-pot dish, featuring jerk-seasoned sausage and bell peppers cooked to perfection with fluffy rice and creamy beans.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb jerk-seasoned sausage (such as Andouille or chorizo), sliced
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. Add the onion and garlic to the pan; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the bell peppers to the pan and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
5. Add the cooked sausage back into the pan, followed by the rice and black beans. Stir to combine.
6. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the rice is lightly toasted.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Jerk Quinoa Salad with Black Beans and Corn
This flavorful salad combines the nutty taste of quinoa with the spicy kick of jerk seasoning, mixed with creamy black beans and sweet corn. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon jerk seasoning
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions using 2 cups of water or broth.
2. In a small bowl, mix together jerk seasoning and 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
3. Add the jerk mixture to the cooked quinoa and stir until well combined.
4. In a large bowl, combine black beans, corn kernels, and chopped cilantro.
5. Add the jerk quinoa to the bean and corn mixture and toss to combine.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Jerk Chicken Wings with Spicy Dipping Sauce
Get ready to ignite your taste buds with this mouth-watering recipe that combines the bold flavors of jerk seasoning and spicy dipping sauce. Perfect for game days, parties, or a quick snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs chicken wings
– 1/4 cup jerk seasoning
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp onion powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Spicy dipping sauce (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. In a large bowl, mix together jerk seasoning, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Add chicken wings and toss to coat evenly.
4. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and spray with cooking spray. Arrange chicken wings in a single layer.
5. Bake for 30 minutes or until cooked through.
Spicy Dipping Sauce:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
– 1 tbsp honey
– Salt to taste
Mix all ingredients together in a bowl and refrigerate until ready to serve. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Jerk Portobello Mushrooms with Garlic Herb Butter
Elevate your dinner game with this flavorful and aromatic dish, featuring tender portobello mushrooms smothered in a rich garlic herb butter infused with the bold spices of jerk seasoning.
Ingredients:
– 4 large portobello mushrooms, stems removed
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp ground cumin
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together softened butter, garlic, thyme, paprika, cumin, and cayenne pepper (if using). Season with salt and pepper.
3. Place portobello mushrooms on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Divide the garlic herb butter evenly among the mushrooms, spreading it on each cap.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until mushrooms are tender and golden brown.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Jerk Tilapia with Coconut Lime Sauce
Experience the bold flavors of the Caribbean with this vibrant dish, where spicy jerk seasoning meets creamy coconut and zesty lime.
Ingredients:
– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp jerk seasoning
– 1/4 cup coconut milk
– 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together jerk seasoning, coconut milk, lime juice, garlic, and ginger.
3. Place tilapia fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Brush the jerk-coconut mixture evenly onto both sides of the fish.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Serve: Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve immediately.
Jerk Veggie Stir-Fry with Pineapple Teriyaki
Get ready to spice up your stir-fry game with this Caribbean-inspired dish, blending the bold flavors of jerk seasoning with sweet and tangy pineapple teriyaki sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed veggies (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli)
– 2 teaspoons jerk seasoning
– 1/4 cup pineapple teriyaki sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add sliced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add mixed veggies and jerk seasoning; stir-fry for 5-7 minutes or until veggies are tender-crisp.
5. Pour in pineapple teriyaki sauce; stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Enjoy your flavorful and aromatic Jerk Veggie Stir-Fry with Pineapple Teriyaki!
Jerk Chicken Pizza with Caribbean Flavors
Elevate your pizza game with this unique fusion of Caribbean flavors and classic jerk seasoning. This recipe combines the bold flavors of Jamaica with the comfort of a warm, cheesy pie.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tbsp jerk seasoning
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 can of crushed tomatoes (14.5 oz)
– 8-10 in pizza crust
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together jerk seasoning and olive oil.
3. Marinate chicken in the jerk mixture for at least 30 minutes or overnight.
4. Cook chicken according to package instructions or grill until cooked through.
5. Roll out pizza crust and spread crushed tomatoes on top.
6. Add diced onion, minced garlic, and sliced red bell pepper.
7. Place cooked chicken on top of vegetables.
8. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese and chopped cilantro over the pizza.
9. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
10. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: Approximately 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to ignite your taste buds with these 19 authentic spicy jerk recipes! From classic jerk chicken and pork tenderloin to innovative creations like jerk salmon with avocado cream and jerk quinoa salad with black beans and corn, there’s something for everyone. These mouth-watering dishes combine the bold flavors of Caribbean cuisine with international twists, ensuring that your taste buds will be on a thrilling adventure. Whether you’re a fan of seafood, meat, or veggies, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings.
