For years I resisted trying Jamaican jerk seasoning. Adding cinnamon to desserts seemed strange to me. I was introduced to that. Cincinnati style chiliHe also uses cinnamon in desserts (with chocolate!). I find that cinnamon can go well with sweet flavors.
I figured if I could learn to love cinnamon in chili, I could learn to love it in chicken or other foods. So I tried making Jamaican jerk chicken seasoning at home. My first attempt was unsuccessful. Turns out, cinnamon should be very carefully balanced. Too much, and it conquers everything.
Since then, I’ve tweaked the recipe and really love the combination of sweet, spicy and cinnamon in this spice mix. These flavors can be an acquired taste, so don’t be discouraged if they are strange at first. A good Caribbean jerk seasoning balances heat, sweetness and earthiness in a bold but still versatile way.
What is jerk seasoning?
Traditionally, it is a bold Jamaican spice used to flavor meat. Especially chicken And pork, before baking or smoking. The right mixtures can be made as a dry powder or a paste, depending on the use. This homemade version of jerk seasoning uses pantry spices, so it’s easy to keep on hand and customize to your liking.
What is jerk seasoning made of?
Although recipes vary, classic jerk seasoning often includes allspice, thyme, garlic, onion, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and spicy ingredients such as cayenne or Scotch bonnet pepper.
The three main ingredients of Jerk seasoning are allspice, thyme, and hot pepper as the main flavor, while the supporting spices are overshadowed. So what gives jerky its flavor? Its signature flavor comes from warm, aromatic spices (especially allspice and cinnamon) combined with heat, herbs and sweetness. What makes jarku seasoning unique (and addictive!) is that mix of spicy, sweet, and slightly sweet.
How to make jerk seasoning at home
If you’re wondering how to make jerk seasoning, the good news is that it’s as easy to mix as dry seasoning. You can also mix spices with oil, vinegar and/or honey into a paste. Jamaican jerk seasoning recipes can be adjusted for heat level and sweetness, depending on your family’s preferences.
This spice is often added to chicken, but it’s also great on grilled vegetables, other meats, and grilled seafood. I like to mix this spice with equal amounts of honey and coconut oil to make a marinade or rub. I use it especially on various meats and vegetables while roasting. The combination of sweet, savory, and earthy adds a caramelized, smoky flavor that’s hard to beat.
Jerk seasoning recipe
Homemade Jamaican jerk seasoning recipe with onion powder, cinnamon, allspice and other herbs adds depth and flavor to many dishes.
Nutrition facts
Jerk seasoning recipe
in serving size
Calories 3
% Daily Value*
Sodium 39 mg2%
Carbohydrates 0.6 g0%
Fiber 0.2 g1%
Sugar 0.2 g0%
Protein 0.1 g0%
* Percent daily values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.
Try mixing equal parts honey and coconut oil to add flavor to meat or other dishes.
Another difference
I have played with this recipe for years and the above is the modified version. If you’re looking for the original with a strong onion and cinnamon flavor, try this one.
What’s the closest thing to jerk seasoning?
Looking for a jerk seasoning substitute? If you don’t have all the spices on hand, mixing allspice, thyme, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne is a good starting point. It won’t be the same as an actual blend, but it will retain the overall flavor profile.
If this isn’t your thing, check out my other homework Mix herbs and spices An expensive substitute for store-bought spices. Making your own allows you to control the ingredients, skip the fillers, and tweak the flavors. Plus, once you start experimenting with these kinds of spices, it’s hard to go back to pre-made mixes.
Did you use Jamaican jerk seasoning? What are your favorite ways to use it? Leave a comment and let us know!
