Jerk seasoning was developed by the original inhabitants of Jamaica, the Arawak Indians. It was developed and applied to various types of meats to help preserve it from the tropical island heat. This seasoning was rubbed on the meat and then it was dried over open pit fires. The meaning of the term "jerk" as it relates to this type of cooking is thought to mean "dried meat". However, many believe it is derived from the actual method of constantly turning (jerking) the meat as it cooks.
The taste is actually a combination of many flavors all mixed together creating a unique blend with a tropical flair. Some more notable spices included are Scotch bonnet peppers, allspice (pimento), cinnamon, garlic, salt, rum, thyme, and lime juice. The grouping produces an island influenced distinctive mixture of both tangy and spicy tastes. The aromatic fragrance of the spices draws vacationers in droves to enjoy this Jamaican cuisine.
In addition to all the spices used, the meat is grilled over hardwood coals that have allspice leaves and pimento berries added to them. These also combine and aid in the smoking of the spice rubbed meat as is it slowly roasted. Although open pits are sometimes still utilized, many restaurants now have switched to barrel drum cookers or jerk pans. The barrel drums are cut in half and hinged together with holes drilled in the lid.
Tourists are drawn to the aroma as the meat is slowly roasting throughout this island paradise. A multitude of jerk stands are found along many avenues traveled by the visitors. Because tourists have very different attitudes regarding levels of spiciness, the seasoning can been mellowed somewhat in an attempt to appeal to a more vast audience.
Most types of meat can be cooked using this type of flavoring. Originally it was utilized mostly when roasting chicken or pork. In today's marketplace, almost any kind of entree desired can be prepared, such as fish, beef, and tofu. The meat is either dry rubbed or marinated for several hours prior to slowly grilling over the aromatic coals.
After returning home. Many people purchase the herbs themselves and manipulate the mixture to develop a similar spice combination. As is done in the island restaurants, the spiciness can be regulated to meet the diner's taste. This tropical method of cooking is becoming more popular in private homes, and the fragrant roasting of herbs enhances the flavors.
This zesty taste is so enjoyed, that it is now offered across the world in various dishes to be enjoyed when a trip to this Caribbean island is not possible. Remember to successfully prepare meat flavored this way, either a dry rub or marinating and then slow cooking on a low fire is a necessity.
Vacationing in Jamaica is an experience in itself. Adding the aromatic and spicy jerk seasoning to the cuisine enjoyed, creates a tropical island experience most tourists will never forget. Add to it, a side dish of dumplings or hard bread and you can be transported back to paradise again and again.
The taste is actually a combination of many flavors all mixed together creating a unique blend with a tropical flair. Some more notable spices included are Scotch bonnet peppers, allspice (pimento), cinnamon, garlic, salt, rum, thyme, and lime juice. The grouping produces an island influenced distinctive mixture of both tangy and spicy tastes. The aromatic fragrance of the spices draws vacationers in droves to enjoy this Jamaican cuisine.
In addition to all the spices used, the meat is grilled over hardwood coals that have allspice leaves and pimento berries added to them. These also combine and aid in the smoking of the spice rubbed meat as is it slowly roasted. Although open pits are sometimes still utilized, many restaurants now have switched to barrel drum cookers or jerk pans. The barrel drums are cut in half and hinged together with holes drilled in the lid.
Tourists are drawn to the aroma as the meat is slowly roasting throughout this island paradise. A multitude of jerk stands are found along many avenues traveled by the visitors. Because tourists have very different attitudes regarding levels of spiciness, the seasoning can been mellowed somewhat in an attempt to appeal to a more vast audience.
Most types of meat can be cooked using this type of flavoring. Originally it was utilized mostly when roasting chicken or pork. In today's marketplace, almost any kind of entree desired can be prepared, such as fish, beef, and tofu. The meat is either dry rubbed or marinated for several hours prior to slowly grilling over the aromatic coals.
After returning home. Many people purchase the herbs themselves and manipulate the mixture to develop a similar spice combination. As is done in the island restaurants, the spiciness can be regulated to meet the diner's taste. This tropical method of cooking is becoming more popular in private homes, and the fragrant roasting of herbs enhances the flavors.
This zesty taste is so enjoyed, that it is now offered across the world in various dishes to be enjoyed when a trip to this Caribbean island is not possible. Remember to successfully prepare meat flavored this way, either a dry rub or marinating and then slow cooking on a low fire is a necessity.
Vacationing in Jamaica is an experience in itself. Adding the aromatic and spicy jerk seasoning to the cuisine enjoyed, creates a tropical island experience most tourists will never forget. Add to it, a side dish of dumplings or hard bread and you can be transported back to paradise again and again.
About the Author:
Helen Willinsky is a authority on jamaican jerk cooking. For a short period of time recieve free jerk seasoning on every orderjerk seasoning, and jerk chicken
No comments:
Post a Comment