Jerk is a style of cooking native to Jamaica in which meats (traditionally pork, but now including chicken and fish) are dry-rubbed with a fiery spice mixture (called Jamaican jerk spice) and then cooked in a pit, on a grill or on an open fire (an oven will do in a pinch). Jerk refers to the technique, the spice mixture, and the finished product.
The jerk seasoning relies upon a few typical items: Allspice (Jamaican pepper, Jamaican pimento) and Habanero peppers (Scotch Bonnet peppers) being the most common basic ingredients. Cloves, cinnamon, nutmeg, thyme and other ingredients are often added. It is now possible to find pre-made jerk seasoning mixes.
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