The history of Jamaican Jerk Chicken

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Jerk Chicken, the internationally recognized culinary delight, has deep roots in Jamaica’s history and culture. The origins of jerk seasoning and cooking method are closely intertwined with the history of the Maroons, escaped enslaved Africans who established free communities in the mountainous interior of Jamaica during the Spanish and later British rule.

The term “jerk” is thought to come from the word “charqui,” a term of Quechua origin used to describe dried meat. Over time, it evolved into the term “jerky,” now widely used in North America. However, jerk seasoning and cooking method go beyond just drying meat; it’s a unique mix of seasoning and preparation that results in one of the most flavorful dishes in Caribbean cuisine.

The Maroons are credited with the creation of jerk cooking. Living in the mountains and forests, they developed a way to smoke and cure meats in the open to feed their communities. The process began by digging a pit in the ground, filling it with pimento wood, which added a distinct flavor during the smoking process. The meat (usually pork, but over time included chicken) was seasoned with local spices and slow-cooked over the smoky fire. This not only preserved the meat, allowing it to be stored for a long time, but also infused it with a flavor that is now synonymous with Jamaican cuisine.

The exact mixture of spices varies, but jerk seasoning typically includes allspice (locally known as pimento), Scotch bonnet peppers, thyme, garlic, ginger, and scallions. This blend gives jerk chicken its unique spicy, sweet, and savory flavor profile.

Over centuries, this Maroon culinary tradition spread across the island and evolved into what we know as jerk cooking today. In modern Jamaica, jerk dishes are a staple at local roadside stands, in towns, and cities, as well as being an essential part of menu offerings at high-end restaurants.

Jamaican jerk chicken, with its rich cultural history and unique flavor, is more than just a dish. It’s a testament to the island’s history of resilience, creativity, and the ability to turn simple ingredients into something extraordinary.

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Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon of ground allspice (also known as pimento in Jamaica)
  • 1 tablespoon of ground nutmeg
  • 1.5 teaspoons of salt
  • 1 teaspoon of black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon of raw sugar (or brown sugar)
  • 7 to 8 cloves of garlic, finely chopped
  • 3 to 4 Scotch bonnet peppers, deseeded and finely chopped (Use gloves when handling these – they’re very hot!)
  • 1 tablespoon of fresh ginger, grated
  • 2 tablespoons of fresh thyme leaves, finely chopped
  • 3 scallions (green onions), finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup of soy sauce
  • 1/2 cup of white vinegar
  • 1/2 cup of orange juice
  • 1 cup of lime juice
  • 1/2 cup of vegetable oil
  • Zest of 1 lime

Please note, Scotch bonnet peppers are extremely hot. You can adjust the quantity based on your spice tolerance. Always use gloves when handling these peppers to avoid skin irritation.

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Directions

Preparation of the Chicken:

Begin by cleaning the chicken. Remove any feathers or excess fat, rinse well, and pat dry. If using a whole chicken, cut it into quarters or smaller pieces, as per your preference.

Making the Jerk Marinade:

In a large bowl, combine the ground allspice, ground nutmeg, salt, black pepper, and raw sugar. Add the finely chopped garlic, Scotch bonnet peppers, grated ginger, chopped thyme leaves, and chopped scallions. Mix everything together. Then add the soy sauce, white vinegar, orange juice, lime juice, and vegetable oil to the mixture. Grate the zest of one lime into the marinade and stir until well combined.

Marinating the Chicken:

Place the chicken pieces in a large, resealable plastic bag (or a large bowl if a bag is not available). Pour the jerk marinade over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are well coated. Seal the bag or cover the bowl and refrigerate. Marinate the chicken for at least 4 hours, but for the best flavor, let it marinate overnight.

Cooking the Chicken:

When ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium heat. If you’re using a charcoal grill, allow the charcoal to burn until it’s white-ashy. Remove the chicken from the marinade, shaking off any excess. Reserve the remaining marinade for basting. Place the chicken pieces on the grill, skin side down. Cook, turning and basting with the leftover marinade frequently, for about 40-50 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the juices run clear.

If you don’t have a grill, you can also bake the jerk chicken in an oven preheated to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius). Place the chicken on a baking sheet and bake for about 45-55 minutes, basting occasionally, until cooked through.

Serving the Chicken:

Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill or oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat. Serve the jerk chicken with traditional Jamaican sides like rice and peas or fried plantains, or with a fresh salad. Enjoy!

Remember: Always be careful when handling raw chicken and ensure it is cooked thoroughly to avoid foodborne illness.

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