Jerk Pork

Authentic Jamaican Jerk Pork Recipe - Flavorful & Delicious

Region / culture: Jamaica | Preparation time: 12 hours | Cooking time: 4 hours | Servings: 8

Introduction

Jerk Pork is a traditional Jamaican dish that is known for its bold and spicy flavors. The key to this dish is the jerk sauce, which is a fiery blend of spices that gives the pork its signature taste. This dish is perfect for those who love a little heat in their meals.

History

Jerk Pork has its roots in Jamaica, where it was originally cooked by the Maroons, who were escaped slaves. They would season the pork with a mixture of spices and cook it over an open flame. This method of cooking helped to preserve the meat and gave it a unique flavor that is still enjoyed today.

Ingredients

jerk Sauce - Purchase or Prepare your own
5 lb (2.27 kg) pork shoulder (cut into pieces)
pimento (all spice) branches or Aromatic Wood

How to prepare

Rub the meat with the sauce.
If using a pork shoulder, make shallow cuts and rub it in.
Marinate overnight.
Grill at the lowest possible setting over a low fire until it is done.
Using pimento (all spice) branches mixed with charcoal is best, as it is commonly used in Jamaica.
If not available, try using an aromatic wood in the barbecue grill to enhance the flavor.
Chop the meat into pieces and serve it traditionally with hard-dough bread.

Variations

For a milder version, reduce the amount of jerk sauce used.
Try using chicken or fish instead of pork for a different twist on this dish.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to marinate the pork overnight to allow the flavors to fully penetrate the meat.

- Cooking the pork over a low fire will help to ensure that it is cooked through without burning.

- Using pimento branches or aromatic wood in the grill will enhance the flavor of the pork.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Jerk Pork with traditional hard-dough bread and a side of coleslaw.

Cooking Techniques

Grilling the pork over a low fire will help to infuse it with smoky flavor.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you can't find pimento branches, try using a blend of allspice and thyme.

Make Ahead Tips

Jerk Pork can be marinated in advance and stored in the refrigerator until ready to grill.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Jerk Pork on a platter with fresh herbs and lime wedges for a colorful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Jerk Pork with a cold beer or a fruity rum cocktail.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover Jerk Pork can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or on the grill until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

350 per serving

Carbohydrates

0g per serving

Fats

20g per serving

Proteins

30g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

Jerk Pork is a good source of iron, zinc, and vitamin B12.

Alergens

Allergens: None

Summary

Jerk Pork is a high-protein dish that is low in carbohydrates and free of allergens.

Summary

Jerk Pork is a flavorful and spicy dish that is perfect for those who love bold flavors. With a little preparation and the right ingredients, you can enjoy this traditional Jamaican dish in your own home.

How did I get this recipe?

I have a clear memory of the first time I saw this recipe for Jerk Pork. It was many years ago, back when I was just a young girl living in Jamaica. My grandmother, who was known for her amazing cooking skills, had invited a group of friends over for a big dinner party. One of her friends, a woman named Mrs. Brown, had brought along a dish that caught everyone's attention - Jerk Pork.

Mrs. Brown had learned how to make Jerk Pork from her own grandmother, who had passed down the recipe through the generations. She was kind enough to share the recipe with my grandmother, who in turn shared it with me. I remember watching Mrs. Brown carefully mix together the marinade of allspice, scotch bonnet peppers, garlic, and other spices. The smell was intoxicating, and I knew I had to learn how to make this dish for myself.

Over the years, I have perfected my own version of Jerk Pork, combining the traditional flavors of Jamaica with my own twist. I have shared this recipe with my family and friends, and it has become a staple at all of our gatherings. The key to making the perfect Jerk Pork is in the marinade - it must be spicy, tangy, and full of flavor.

To make Jerk Pork, you will need the following ingredients:

- 3 pounds of pork shoulder, cut into large chunks

- 1 onion, chopped

- 4 cloves of garlic, minced

- 2 scotch bonnet peppers, chopped (remove seeds for less heat)

- 1 tablespoon of fresh thyme leaves

- 1 tablespoon of allspice

- 1 tablespoon of brown sugar

- 1 tablespoon of soy sauce

- 1 tablespoon of vinegar

- Salt and pepper to taste

To prepare the marinade, combine the onion, garlic, scotch bonnet peppers, thyme, allspice, brown sugar, soy sauce, vinegar, salt, and pepper in a blender or food processor. Blend until smooth, then pour over the pork shoulder in a large bowl. Marinate the pork in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results.

When you are ready to cook the Jerk Pork, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove the pork from the marinade and grill for about 10-12 minutes per side, or until the pork is cooked through and slightly charred. Serve the Jerk Pork hot with rice and peas, fried plantains, or your favorite side dishes.

I hope you enjoy this recipe as much as my family and I do. Jerk Pork is a delicious and flavorful dish that is perfect for any occasion. The combination of spices and seasonings creates a unique and unforgettable flavor that will have you coming back for more. Happy cooking!