Description
This Jerk Spice Mix is a vibrant and aromatic blend of toasted whole spices and dried herbs, essential for authentic Caribbean jerk seasoning. Perfect for marinating meats or seasoning vegetables, it offers a balanced heat with cinnamon, allspice, and cayenne pepper to create a memorable flavor profile.
Ingredients
Scale
Whole Spices
- 2 tbsp ground cinnamon or 2 cinnamon sticks
- 2 tbsp black peppercorns
- 2 tsp allspice berries
- ½ whole nutmeg
Dried Spices and Herbs
- 1 tbsp dried thyme
- 1½ tsp cayenne pepper
Instructions
- Toast Spices: Heat a small pan over medium heat and add the cinnamon sticks (if using), black peppercorns, allspice berries, and nutmeg. Toast them gently, stirring frequently, until they are aromatic and have darkened slightly, taking care not to burn them.
- Grind Spices: Transfer the toasted whole spices to a spice grinder or a mortar and pestle. Grind them to a fine powder.
- Combine and Store: Add the ground cinnamon (if using pre-ground instead of cinnamon sticks), dried thyme, and cayenne pepper to the ground toasted spices. Mix thoroughly to combine the spice mix evenly. Store the jerk spice blend in a sealed jar, and keep it in a cool, dry place for up to six months.
Notes
- Toasting the whole spices is essential to unlock their full flavor potential.
- Use a spice grinder for a finer, more consistent powder; a mortar and pestle work well for a rustic texture.
- If you don’t have whole nutmeg, freshly grate it instead of using pre-ground for better flavor.
- The mix can be customized by adjusting the cayenne pepper for more or less heat.
- Store the spice mix in an airtight container away from light and moisture to retain freshness.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Spice Mix / Condiment
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Caribbean
Keywords: Jerk spice mix, Caribbean seasoning, homemade spice blend, allspice, cayenne pepper, thyme, toasted spices
