Jerk is a traditional Jamaican style of cooking meats that in recent years has also become popular in other countries. It can be used for cooking a variety of meats - traditionally in Jamaica, the jerk style is used for goat meat or pork - but today, it is also used for chicken, fish or even tofu.
The key element of jerk recipes is "Jamaican jerk spice". This is actually a mixture of several different spices. If you look for it in larger supermarkets, you will probably be able to find ready-made jerk spice, but if you can't find it, or if you prefer, you could also prefer your own jerk spice. Preparing jerk spice yourself has the advantage that you can modify the mixture of ingredients to suit your personal preferences.
As already noted, jerk spice is actually a mixture of several spices. The main spices are Jamaican allspice (which is also sometimes known as "pimento" or "pimenta") and Scotch bell peppers. In combination, these produce a fiery but tasty flavor. Other ingredients in jerk spice usually include cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, garlic and thyme. Additionally, you can also add chopped onions or scallions to the mix.
To prepare the meat, you should make some light cuts in the surface and rub the spice into these. Ideally, you should prepare the meat the day before cooking and allow it to marinate overnight in the 'fridge, as this will really allow the meat to absorb the spice.
When the meat is ready to cook, if possible you should cook it over a charcoal grill. You can also place some pimento wood or berries on the hot coals, or if you don't have any, hickory or apple, as many people say this enhances the flavor. Of course, it may not always be possible to use a charcoal grill, but don't worry, oven cooking can also produce passable results - you can make perfectly good jerk pork in the oven.
