Homemade Jamaican Jerk Seasoning (2024)

Home » Recipes » Seasonings » Jamaican Jerk Seasoning - Taste of the Caribbean

by Mike Hultquist · Apr 15, 2019 · 167 Comments · Jump to Recipe

Make your own Jamaican jerk seasoning spice blend at home with this easy recipe, filled with loads of piquant and aromatic spices.

Don't you love a good jerk seasoning? Jerk cooking originated in Jamaica and you'll get all those wonderful Caribbean flavors when you cook with these spices. It is traditionally used with chicken, but it works great over shrimp and other seafood. I'm not very picky in how I use it.

When I want jerk spice, I want some spice! With these flavors, it can work with any protein of your preference. Tofu, anyone? Why not? It also works on vegetables, like grilled corn on the cob. Vegetables love a good spice rub.

There are quite a lot of seasonings that go into this jerk seasoning - fifteen, to be specific, with my personal blend. You can easily buy some from the grocery store or your favorite online spice shop, but I like to make mine at home.

It is so much better when you make it at home, as you can control everything that goes into it.

Why Homemade Jerk Seasoning is Better

First, I can emphasize certain ingredients over others. Want less clove? No problem. A bit more allspice? Go for it!

Secondly, I can easily slip in a few (or more!) dashes of a superhot blend that I've recently dehydrated. Consider this! A Jamaican Jerk Seasoning blend with a half teaspoon of Moruga or Reaper powder? Oh yeah, some extra heat for me. So happy! Consider the addition of the Scotch Bonnet or habanero, something more local to Jamaica.

But whatever works for you!

Let's talk about how we make it, shall we?

What Ingredients Go Into Jamaican Jerk Seasoning?

Here is a list of the ingredients you will need:

1 tablespoon onion powder
1 tablespoon garlic powder
2 teaspoons cayenne pepper
2 teaspoons salt
2 teaspoons ground black pepper
2 teaspoons dried thyme (or use 1 teaspoon ground thyme)
2 teaspoons sugar (or use brown sugar)
1 teaspoon ground allspice
1 teaspoon dried parsley
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon hot pepper flakes
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon ground clove
1/4 teaspoon ground cumin

Making the Blend

Once you've gathered up your ingredients, add all of them to a small mixing bowl.

Mix it all together evenly. Make sure it is nicely uniform.

BOOM! DONE! You now have your own homemade Jamaican jerk seasoning blend. Have at it!

Store in an airtight container. Use as needed.

Make it Your Own

As mentioned above, I like to sometimes slip in some spicier chili powders into the mix. Ghost pepper powder is probably a favorite. Not a lot, mind you. Just a pinch or so to bring up the heat for me. If you can get scotch bonnet powder, that would be awesome.

I like to dehydrate my own scotch bonnet peppers, then grind them into a powder for this recipe.

You can easily adjust the ratios to make it your own personal blend, though. Bump the garlic, double the cayenne, cut back on the onion, dial back on the sugar or use brown sugar instead.

Whatever you prefer!

It's your blend now. This is my favorite jerk seasoning recipe. One of the best spice blends out there.

Why is it Called "Jerk"?

Jerk is the term used for the style of original Jamaican cooking, which is poking holes into meat so it can be permeated with more flavor. This is called "jerking".

"Jerk" became associated with the particular spice rub used to spice up those meats, and the name stands today. Jerk can refer to jerk spice blends, jerk marinade, and the cooking technique in general.

What is a Good Substitute for Jerk Seasoning?

There really is no good direct substitute for jerk seasoning. If you are unable to find a Jamaican or Caribbean jerk blend at your local grocery store, your best bet is to make it yourself using this recipe.

However, if you are unable to find certain specific ingredients, try to get as close as possible with what you are able to obtain.

Or, try taking a Cajun Seasoning or Creole Seasoning blend and add the following ingredients: Brown Sugar, Nutmeg, Cinnamon, Clove, Allspice. That might get you fairly close.

Try it Out on These Recipes

Check Out Some of My Other Homemade Seasoning Blends

If you enjoy this recipe, I hope you'll leave a comment with some STARS. Also, please share it on social media. Don't forget to tag us at #ChiliPepperMadness. I'll be sure to share! Thanks! -- Mike H.

Homemade Jamaican Jerk Seasoning

Make your own Jamaican jerk seasoning blend at home with this easy recipe, filled with loads of piquant and aromatic spices.

Save Recipe

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: American

Keyword: jamaican, seasoning, spices

Prep Time: 1 minute minute

Cook Time: 1 minute minute

Total Time: 2 minutes minutes

Calories: 22kcal

Author: Mike Hultquist

Servings: 6

Tap or hover to scale

4.99 from 63 votes

Leave a Review

Ingredients

1 tablespoon onion powder
1 tablespoon garlic powder
2 teaspoons cayenne pepper
2 teaspoons salt
2 teaspoons ground black pepper
2 teaspoons dried thyme (or use 1 teaspoon ground thyme)
2 teaspoons sugar
1 teaspoon ground allspice
1 teaspoon dried parsley
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon hot pepper flakes
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
½ teaspoon ground clove
1/4 teaspoon ground cumin

Instructions

Add all of the ingredients to a small mixing bowl.
Mix it all together evenly.
Store in an airtight container. Use as needed.

Notes

Makes about a half a cup.

Nutrition Information

Calories: 22kcalCarbohydrates: 5gSodium: 778mgPotassium: 57mgFiber: 1gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 455IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 16mgIron: 0.7mg

Did You Enjoy This Recipe?I love hearing how you like it and how you made it your own. Leave a comment below and tag @ChiliPepperMadness on social media.

This recipe was updated on 4/15/19 to include new photos and information. It was originally published on 10/4/15.

Reader Interactions

Comments

Elena says
June 03, 2024 at 6:37 pm

Hola! Hoy te descubrí! Lo que sí, es que con tantos nombres diferentes de ajíes, ando toda confundida, pero sé que Dr. Google por ahí tiene una página de clasificación y nombres... la volveré a mirar.
Pregunta: Pimienta de Jamaica ¿es lo mismo que Pimienta All Spice?
Gracias!
Reply
- Mike Hultquist says
  June 04, 2024 at 5:50 am
  Hola, Elena. You can see my Chili Pepper Types page here: https://www.chilipeppermadness.com/chili-pepper-types/. Also, yes, All Spice is the same as the Jamaica pepper (Pimientade Jamaica as la misma de Pimienta All spice). =)
  Reply
Janis says
May 28, 2024 at 7:11 pm

This was FANTASTIC! Marinated some wings w/this rub and some EVOO overnight then tossed a bit more before grilling. The wings had just the right amount of kick, sweet & savory.
We did a taste test of this seasoning vs Penzeys (my #1 go to for most herbs/spices) and this recipe won over everybody (alll ten of us)
Thanks for the recipe!
Reply
- Mike Hultquist says
  May 28, 2024 at 9:52 pm
  Wow, thanks so much for sharing this, Janis! Glad you loved it! I always believe - homemade is best! Perfect way to enjoy it.
  Reply
Jane says
May 18, 2024 at 6:24 am
have you ever added this to hummus?
I'm trying to make my own and want to flavour it.
Reply
- Mike Hultquist says
  May 18, 2024 at 12:29 pm
  I have not, Jane, but it sounds like a tasty spin to me!
  Reply
Leland Routt says
April 19, 2024 at 7:39 pm

Just what I was looking for!! We picked up some of the seasoning in Jamaica 2 years ago, and I just ran out of the premixed seasonings. Now I can make my own.
Reply
- Mike Hultquist says
  April 20, 2024 at 6:29 am
  Boom! Glad to help, Leland!
  Reply
Juli says
March 13, 2024 at 7:54 pm

I made it exactly as written and rubbed generous amounts on and under the skin of chicken thighs, then grilled them. Best jerk chicken ever - I like it much better than the wet marinade. Thank you for sharing the recipe!
Reply
- Mike Hultquist says
  March 13, 2024 at 9:48 pm
  Excellent!! Glad you enjoyed it, Juli! High praise for sure!
  Reply
Meaghan says
March 13, 2024 at 2:17 pm

This was absolutely amazing!!
I used this on some chicken thighs, let them marinate in it for about 6 hours, and cooked them up along with the Jamaican rice and peas from this website. As I mentioned in my review for the rice and peas, I couldn’t find allspice anywhere so I used cinnamon, nutmeg and cloves as a substitute.
My husband came home and had already eaten so said he wasn’t hungry. But after he tried a bite of my piece of chicken he didn’t put it back down until it was finished
I will definitely make this again. Absolutely delicious!
Reply
- Mike Hultquist says
  March 13, 2024 at 2:27 pm
  Awesome to hear, Meaghan! Yes, great combo - Jamaican chicken with rice and peas! I love it. Thanks so much. Glad you both enjoyed them.
  Reply
Todd K says
February 04, 2024 at 6:22 pm
Hi, Mike. I really enjoy making my own homemade spice blends (I make Cajun, Mexican, a smoke rub, and a copycat of a famous chef) which my kids love so much, that I give them as gifts to them (and some friends). Before about 10 years ago, I never had jerk chicken, and I was growing habaneros in my garden, so I found a wet marinade recipe online, and after some modifications over the years, it's the only one I've used. Marinate some things overnight, smoke them the next day for a few hours, then either grill or broil them just a bit to char them up. Turns out awesome! I usually put in 3 habs when I make it for myself, which generally makes for a nose-blowing but delicious experience, but I do 2 for guests, and they love it.
Question being, I'm interested in trying to make a dry jerk rub, and saw this recipe. Sounds great! I'm wondering, though - I just looked online to see where I can get a hab powder, and the choices are pretty limited, and kind of pricey. Somewhere, you mentioned drying some, and grinding them for the rub. I've been using the habaneros I grew from four years ago that I've had in the freezer (still just as tasty and potent as off the vine when I make my marinade), and have only a few left, so, I'm wondering if you had any input on how to dry and "powderize" them for this recipe? I'd love to try this on some air fried wings, or smoked thighs on the grill, in a quick and easy-to-make and keep manner.
And, I have to grow some more habs this year!
Reply
- Mike Hultquist says
  February 06, 2024 at 7:03 am
  Hi, Todd. A dehydrator is your best way to go. I have a post on this year: https://www.chilipeppermadness.com/preserving-chili-peppers/how-to-dehydrate-chili-peppers-and-make-chili-powders/
  Reply
Paul says
February 01, 2024 at 12:30 pm

Hi Mike & Patty,
I’ve just made this Jerk rub for some wings later this evening.
I didn’t have any Cayenne so used the same amount of Chile de Arbol powder. Not quite hot enough. Then, I remembered some dried Habanero’s that were lurking at the back of the cupboard. I gutted one, toasted it then put it and the whole mix in a coffee grinder and blitzed.
It’s perfect now, I just can’t wait for the wings later!
Paul
Reply
- Mike H. says
  February 02, 2024 at 5:49 am
  Paul, that is a fantastic workaround - well done! Happy you are enjoying the recipe!
  Reply
mike says
January 27, 2024 at 4:56 pm

Amazing. Doubled the recipe and covered whole chicken with it. Put on a charcoal bbq. So good.
Reply
- Mike Hultquist says
  January 27, 2024 at 6:10 pm
  Excellent on the grill! Thanks, Mike! =)
  Reply
fcb says
November 28, 2023 at 2:01 pm

Fabulous marinade
Reply
- Mike Hultquist says
  November 28, 2023 at 2:06 pm
  Glad you enjoyed it!
  Reply
cat says
November 12, 2023 at 4:05 pm

Thanks for sharing! We love this recipes. So fragrant and pleasing but not overpowering. Used it right away to make the best Jamaican Jerk chicken! Yummy recipe. Now we have our own go to Jerk seasoning!
Reply
- Mike H. says
  November 13, 2023 at 4:47 am
  Awesome, Cat! Happy to hear that!
  Reply
Kari says
November 06, 2023 at 7:30 pm

I just want to say how much I have enjoyed your Jerk Seasoning recipe. I do my own pressure canning and wanted something tasty to keep in jars for convenient meals on those busy days. Well I pressure canned a bunch of chicken drum sticks with half of the recipe exactly how it was and the other half with the added heat of habaneros included for hubby. I have to say this is a complete winner in our house. We have tried the Jerk seasoning on the BBQ on pork as well with success, but for canning chicken for emergency meals or a quick wrap, it turns out fantastic in the pressure canner for long term storage! Thank you!
Reply
- Mike Hultquist says
  November 07, 2023 at 6:39 am
  Awesome! Thanks, Kari! Glad you're enjoying it!
  Reply
- John says
  December 02, 2023 at 12:51 pm
  
  Perfect
  No more store bought for me
  Reply
Grillmeister says
November 06, 2023 at 7:54 am

This was a hit at my last BBQ. I used it as a dry rub on a rack of spare ribs and they were all gone before I could blink. Surprisingly not too spicy!
Reply
- Mike Hultquist says
  November 06, 2023 at 7:55 am
  Excellent! Glad it was enjoyed!
  Reply
John Richards says
October 22, 2023 at 5:05 pm

I was looking for some chili relish ideas to use up our end of season chili harvest and and Google led me here. I love your recipes and attitude towards life. It was especially refreshing to see your Jamaican Jerk recipes. Being a "Jamerican" as they call us over there (17 years and counting), I have their flag tattooed around my left bicep with a "one love" heart, a red blood slash (for the Rasta) and "Respect". While there are probably as many different jerk recipes as there are Jamaican chefs and home cooks, there are a few essential ingredients to authentic Jamaican Jerk. (I can't speak to other Caribbean country's recipes - never been there.) So Scotch Bonnets, green onion, garlic, allspice and thyme are the basics. For marinade or sauce, I like to add lime juice and zest, onion, a shot of rum, and a little soy sauce to mine, along with a little brown sugar or molasses and salt and black pepper and sometimes small amounts of ginger, cinnamon, clove and nutmeg for subtle flavor notes (clove and nutmeg go a loooong way). For dry jerk seasoning I use ground dried ingredients and omit the liquids of course. my written recipes have quantities like yours do, but when I'm cooking, my quantities are often "some" as I'm sure yours are too. I love to make make up spice and seasoning mixtures. I'm an engineer by profession start with a main ingredient in mind and choose something I think will complement it. Then I sniff other things and decide if they would work together and taste the result. Sometimes I go through my entire herb/spice cabinet... and occasionally I toss it and start again 🙂 But ya gotta take notes or you will forget those magic combinations! We grow mad hatters every year - about Scoville zero but very flavorful and crisp. Last year I grew reapers among our garden selection and won't need to go them again for a year or so! Made my 12/31 sauce (copyright 2023) with them. Grim reaper was taken. So when does he show up? New year's eve - 2/31! I also have a 1/1 sauce (copyright 2023) - made from mad hatters - yeah, even the new year baby could do that one. Can't wait for Ed at Puckerbutt to release the pepper X seeds. Anyway, keep up the good work.
Reply
- Mike Hultquist says
  October 23, 2023 at 6:39 am
  Thanks so much, John. I sincerely appreciate the comments. You are a true chilihead! I love it.
  See Also
  Jerk chicken | Caribbean, Spice, Marination A Brief History of Jamaican Jerk Jamaican Jerk: A Short History - Rooted Spices: Single origin spices, unique blends and beautiful gift sets Jerking Meat - Discover Lewis & Clark
  Reply
Rachel says
September 04, 2023 at 11:51 am

This has been a permanent jar in my pantry for years! Everyone who comes for a BBQ,jerk dinner is so envious of this spice blend( yes, I share). I just wanted to let you know how much my family and I enjoy it, and thank you for your post
Reply
- Mike Hultquist says
  September 05, 2023 at 5:33 am
  Thanks so much, Rachel!
  Reply
Nancy Stillwell says
August 23, 2023 at 8:45 am

This seasoning came together quickly and is great. I had all the ingredients on hand. Honestly it is nice to dip into my allspice and nutmeg (which are usually only brought out for Christmas cookies and pumpkin pie). I don't see myself buying Jerk blend at the store ever again.
This came to about one ounce of seasoning and fit perfectly into a repurposed spice jar.
Reply
- Mike Hultquist says
  August 23, 2023 at 11:06 am
  Excellent! I appreciate it, Nancy! Very happy you enjoyed it. Yes, it's definitely nice to use nutmeg and allspice for savory dishes. So good!
  Reply
TishRanawaywithspoon says
August 03, 2023 at 9:44 am

Jerking - is cool. love to mix my own seasonings & this is a great one. I love the garlic & onion & sweet peppery goodness. Going to use lemon pepper next time here, as well as lime or orange zest for some chicken. Yum! Thanks.
Reply
- Mike Hultquist says
  August 03, 2023 at 11:18 am
  Yes! Glad you enjoyed it!
  Reply
Dee says
July 26, 2023 at 5:34 pm

So glad I found this again! I used this to make Rasta pasta two years ago; it was very delicious. It really came unexpectedly alive as a dry rub on a fried turkey. I lost the recipe, but decided to make Rasta pasta again tonight, this time with a store-bought jerk seasoning. Meh! As I tried to rescue the dish, your recipe “magically “ appeared. I love it; thanks for sharing. The blends are delicious and allow each of the flavors to pop.
Reply
- Mike Hultquist says
  July 27, 2023 at 5:50 am
  Excellent, Dee! Thanks!
  Reply
Myrna Martin says
July 24, 2023 at 3:47 pm

Made this for air-fried tofu. It was scrumptious!
I made another batch for friends who can’t have salt or hot pepper; that one turned out great also.
Thank you so very much for sharing this.
Reply
- Mike Hultquist says
  July 24, 2023 at 9:45 pm
  Thanks, Myrna!
  Reply
Paula says
July 23, 2023 at 2:57 pm

This seasoning was absolutely delicious. Used it for a one pot jerk chicken rice and peas dish and it worked beautifully. There were lots of spices but all of which I already had. The hardest part was getting them all out of the cupboard! Would definitely recommend it.
Reply
- Mike Hultquist says
  July 24, 2023 at 6:09 am
  Boom! Thanks, Paula!
  Reply
Cuffee says
July 09, 2023 at 7:39 am
Great recipe, thank you!
Just a little correction on the question of ‘why it’s called jerk’:
To ‘jerk’ or ‘jerking’ is actually a smoking practice used originally by the indigenous Taino people of the Caribbean and later by the Maroons (self emancipated enslaved people of the Caribbean who used gorilla warfare tactics to fight against their enslavers and various European armies).
The Maroons would often reside in mountainous areas with dense forest and in order to not give away their tactical position/location of settlements they would dig pits in the ground and smoke their meat in them which was more often than not wild hogs. They would cover the pits with twigs and leaves which would disperse the smoke and not send up a visible smoke signal. Over time this turned into the traditional Caribbean dish ‘jerk pork’ and later ‘jerk chicken’.
There’s a really interesting history of resistance to the food that I thought your readers definitely shouldn’t miss out on, hence the comment.
Thanks again for the recipe!
Reply
- Jennifer L Richardson says
  October 18, 2023 at 3:01 pm
  
  "guerilla tactics", not gorilla
  Reply
  - Todd K says
    February 04, 2024 at 6:03 pm
    Too funny. I thought the same thing reading the response, as my grandfather was a guerilla fighter in Lithuania in WWII. Definitely thinking of trying this recipe, though. I have an awesome wet marinade, but interested in trying a dry rub one.
    Reply
Lori R. says
July 07, 2023 at 2:52 pm

This recipe is excellent! I was going to buy a recommended brand of Jamaican seasoning from a Caribbean grocery store, but I like being able to adjust the amount of salt and hot pepper to taste. I had everything I needed in my pantry except scotch bonnet peppers, and it just made sense to combine them using this awesome recipe. I am trying your Cajun seasoning recipe tonight, which is another blend I have been buying unnecessarily. Thank you!
Reply
- Mike Hultquist says
  July 07, 2023 at 3:03 pm
  Glad you like it, Lori! Yes, making your own blends at home gives you SO MUCH more freedom. Glad to help!
  Reply
sy says
July 03, 2023 at 12:27 pm
i wish you would share recipe how to use this with ground beef/chicken, so i'll know how much of this seasoning i must use, or if you already have the recipe please tell me the link, thanks so much, have a great day 🙂
Reply
- Mike Hultquist says
  July 03, 2023 at 12:35 pm
  Sy, I would use 1-2 tablespoons per pound of ground meat. Give it a taste, then make a note for adjusting the next time. I hope this helps!
  Reply
Amanda says
June 21, 2023 at 5:22 am

Absolutely amazing! I’ve been using this for taco mix with beans and also as a “pulled pork” style jackfruit in wraps
Reply
- Mike Hultquist says
  June 21, 2023 at 5:39 am
  Nice! Glad you like it, Amanda!
  Reply
GUY LEROY says
June 17, 2023 at 10:40 am

THANKS FOR YOUR ARD WORK LOVE ALL YOUR SPICYCOOKING
Reply
- Mike Hultquist says
  June 17, 2023 at 11:06 am
  Thanks, Guy!!
  Reply
Daniel Spencer says
May 12, 2023 at 6:45 am

Absolutely loved this! I’m adding a scotch bonnet and some ginger next time but this was everything I was looking for. Thank you!
The only thing I would add is I wasn’t sure if it was a perfect coating for 6/8/10 pieces of chicken. I used 8 thighs and it was a bit too salty with the whole lot on, so for you reading this, don’t do that.
I’ll probably use half the seasoning next time to find a balance.
Reply
- Mike Hultquist says
  May 12, 2023 at 6:46 am
  Thanks, Daniel. I appreciate it.
  Reply
Ed Moder says
April 10, 2023 at 3:24 pm

Connie made this and used it in the Rasta Pasta. It was great.
Reply
- Mike Hultquist says
  April 10, 2023 at 4:27 pm
  Yes!! We LOVE this seasoning blend! Essential! Glad you enjoyed it!
  Reply
Onita Ciervo says
March 29, 2023 at 1:01 am
Excellent blog post. I definitely appreciate this website. Keep it up!
Reply
Julia M says
March 24, 2023 at 3:57 pm

Wonderful change of pace for my southwestern US family.
Reply
- Mike Hultquist says
  March 24, 2023 at 4:19 pm
  Glad you enjoyed it, Julia! I love cuisine from the SW US as well, but yes, nice to change it up!
  Reply
Nikki Mc says
March 23, 2023 at 3:21 pm

Hi, made the rub today for making jerk chicken tomorrow but just wondering how spicy it is as I remembered one guest likes mild, I can always leave it off some of the chicken but thought I would check:)
Reply
- Mike Hultquist says
  March 23, 2023 at 3:36 pm
  Nikki, it's pretty spicy from the cayenne and hot pepper flakes, plus a lot of spices in general. You might go easy on this seasoning with your guest.
  Reply
  - Nikki Mc says
    March 25, 2023 at 7:57 am
    
    Thankyou, it was so good! Just like the jerk chicken we had in Belize last week. Can’t wait to cook this over the charcoal grill in summer:)
    Left the peppers out of a few pieces
    Reply
    - Mike Hultquist says
      March 25, 2023 at 7:58 am
      Great to hear, Nikki! Glad you enjoyed it! Jealous of your trip!
      Reply
- Lalea says
  May 29, 2023 at 11:46 am
  I made this. I’m good with spicy, but whoa. So I remade it 3 more times omitting the cayenne and red pepper. I also increased the sugar to taste.
  Reply
Peter Wiggins says
March 19, 2023 at 12:43 pm

Hi, sounds amazing. Any suggestions for using as a paste in a recipe, please?
Reply
- Mike Hultquist says
  March 19, 2023 at 12:49 pm
  Thanks, Peter. I have a Jamaican Jerk Sauce recipe you can refer to as well: https://www.chilipeppermadness.com/recipes/jamaican-jerk-sauce/. If you make a paste from these spices, you an lightly cook it a minute or two before adding liquids for soups, stews, and sauces, for many dishes. I think it would be great for braising chicken or seafood.
  Reply
Kwanjai says
March 14, 2023 at 6:57 am
I really love and want to cook Jerk Chicken. I live in South East Asia and really can't find bonnet peppers. Does it really make the dish without Bonnet pepper? What can i substitute for that? Thank you.
Reply
- Mike Hultquist says
  March 14, 2023 at 6:57 am
  Kwanjai, you can use habanero peppers instead, or other hot peppers that have a slightly fruity flavor.
  Reply
Ben says
March 05, 2023 at 8:45 pm
Looks great man, it's my birthday tomorrow so I'm making a jerk dry rub for a butterfly chicken I'm gonna have
Reply
- Mike Hultquist says
  March 05, 2023 at 10:02 pm
  Nice! Enjoy, Ben! And a very happy birthday to you!
  Reply
Julie M says
January 29, 2023 at 4:02 pm

My family really enjoyed this recipe, we didn't have ground cumin, cinnamon or cayenne pepper so I substituted it for 1/4 tsp dried chilli (which I'll use more next time) but it still tasted great. We had the rub on some chicken drumsticks which were smoked with cherry wood chips on the grill, it was delicious.
Reply
- Mike Hultquist says
  January 29, 2023 at 5:37 pm
  Glad you enjoyed it, Julie. Thanks for sharing.
  Reply
Sandy says
January 18, 2023 at 4:07 pm

OMG. I tried this recipe for the first time and it was awesome.even my daughter loved it and she’s very picky when it comes to food. I was used to cooking with the store bought jar of jerk seasoning…no more of that. I even made extra and save it in a zip lock bag and the aroma smells like I’m cooking in a Jamaican restaurant. Thanks so much for this recipe (both thumbs up)
Reply
- Mike Hultquist says
  January 18, 2023 at 4:38 pm
  Awesome to hear! Glad you enjoyed it, Sandy! This is definitely a favorite around here. We LOVE it!
  Reply
G says
See Also
The Secret to Perfectly Grilled Jerk Chicken with Jerk Sauce
January 06, 2023 at 10:54 am
How can I turn this into a marinade?
Reply
- Mike Hultquist says
  January 06, 2023 at 12:01 pm
  Absolutely. YOu can use these seasonings with certain liquids to make a GREAT marinade. I have a recipe for that here - Jamaican Jerk Marinade (https://www.chilipeppermadness.com/recipes/jerk-marinade/). Enjoy!
  Reply
Almonica Speight says
December 28, 2022 at 4:33 pm

My go to jerk seasoning recipe!!!!!❤️❤️❤️
Reply
- Mike Hultquist says
  December 28, 2022 at 11:23 pm
  Awesome! Thanks, Almonica!
  Reply
Karen says
December 06, 2022 at 8:17 pm

We celebrate Christmas each year with serving foods from different cultures. This year is Caribbean and I thought I would do something using jerk seasoning. Thank you for your recipes. It was a big help. Happy Holidays
Reply
- Mike Hultquist says
  December 07, 2022 at 7:05 am
  Wonderful! I love that tradition, Karen. Glad to help.
  Reply
Michael K says
November 07, 2022 at 8:00 pm

I put all the ingredients into a food processor and pulsed until powdered. This incorporated the ingredients much more evenly and then allowed for a nice shaker of jerk to sprinkle over smoked wings. Fantastic flavor!
Reply
- Mike Hultquist says
  November 07, 2022 at 9:38 pm
  Nice technique!
  Reply
Bea says
November 03, 2022 at 7:34 pm

For an awesome food mashup, skip the salt and apply to spam (lite or less sodium varieties are our favorites- they both have plenty of salt for us!) slices before frying for spam musubi.
You're welcome.
Reply
Vicky Smith says
September 14, 2022 at 1:16 pm

Made this last night as a last minute idea to put on fish. It was delicious and I love that it was made from spices I usually have on hand! Thanks for sharing
Reply
- Mike Hultquist says
  September 14, 2022 at 2:12 pm
  Thanks, Vicky! Glad you enjoyed it!
  Reply
Jane says
August 28, 2022 at 5:54 am

Made this last night and cooked the chicken on the BBQ. Absolutely delicious!! Will be making in bulk and storing in the cupboard. No more packet mix for us. Thank you for sharing your recipe.
Reply
- Mike Hultquist says
  August 29, 2022 at 11:00 am
  Glad you enjoyed it, Jane! Thanks for sharing!! Yay!
  Reply
Peter bateson says
August 24, 2022 at 11:45 am

What’s the best way to cook a whole chicken in oven with the rub, do I rub on when I start to cook chicken or part way through the cooking process…thank you in advance
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- Mike Hultquist says
  August 24, 2022 at 1:08 pm
  Peter, you can use your regular baked whole chicken recipe, but rub the whole bird down with this seasoning before baking. I would use a 1/4 cup or so of seasoning, perhaps a bit more, to really get it rubbed down with flavor.
  Reply
Bronwyn says
July 15, 2022 at 7:47 pm

I made this to use with a recipe for Jamaican chilli that came in a meal box. The original seasoning had been used when we made the recipe the first time. This seasoning was absolutely to die for, so I'm about to make my second batch and I'm going to double it so that I can make chilli for a group that will be going away for a long weekend soon. Thanks so much!!!
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- Mike Hultquist says
  July 15, 2022 at 10:24 pm
  Awesomeness! Glad you enjoy it that much! Thanks, Bronwyn. I appreciate the comments here.
  Reply
Glenn Daugherty says
May 31, 2022 at 8:48 am

By far better than anything you can buy! I love making my own! Thanks for this fantastic recipe!!!
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- Mike Hultquist says
  May 31, 2022 at 11:36 am
  Agreed! I love that we can change it up as desired. Thanks, Glenn! I appreciate it.
  Reply
Cyndi says
May 06, 2022 at 2:38 am
How long will jerk seasoning keep? Also, I want to season my waffle fries
before freezing them, but the fries also require boiling and flash frying before
freezing. How should I go about this?!?
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- Mike Hultquist says
  May 06, 2022 at 8:36 am
  Cyndi, jerk seasoning will last indefinitely, though it does start to lose potency after 6 months or so. I've never frozen waffle fries as you describe, sorry!
  Reply
Jeff Urban says
May 01, 2022 at 10:22 am
I plan to triple the recipe, so I can deal in tablespoons and ounces. I'll also only use powdered varieties to keep anything light from migrating to the surface of the blend or clogging the shaker holes (hence no brown sugar in the blend). By making extra, I can store the remainder in a mason jar in a dark place. Also kicking it up with some jolokia powder I bought.
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Suzy says
April 23, 2022 at 7:05 pm
I halved the recipe as I wanted to make sure I liked it. I didn’t like it , I loved it! I pounded few chicken breasts and used it as a dry rub then grilled it on a pellet grill. The flavor was excellent. Will definitely make more.
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- Mike Hultquist says
  April 24, 2022 at 9:04 am
  Nice! Thanks for sharing, Suzy!
  Reply
Lee Sweetland says
March 27, 2022 at 11:46 am
Just made this for boneless pork loin chops.cut the clove amount in half but everything else was the same. Shook them in ziplock bag with seasoning and refrigerated for 4 hours then hubby grilled them. I served them with mango salsa, Zatarains Caribbean rice and corn on the cob. Our friends were over the moon! Awesome dinner! Will def be keeping this in my spice arsenal. Thank you!
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- Michael Hultquist - Chili Pepper Madness says
  March 29, 2022 at 2:12 pm
  Very nice! Glad you enjoyed it, Lee!
  Reply
Mikey says
March 23, 2022 at 6:01 am

The only tweak I made was using Chinese five spice in place of allspice since I can't seem to find that in the stores - how similar would the Chinese five-spice be? I had all of the other ingredients.
Nevertheless, this was a fantastic spice blend. I used it in a Jamaican dish as part of the sauce and to spice up the chicken. It was beautiful, and I only just want to look for more Jamaican meals in the future, with this being such a breeze.
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- Michael Hultquist - Chili Pepper Madness says
  March 23, 2022 at 6:24 am
  Thanks, Mikey. Glad you enjoyed it. I'd say there are some similarities of Chinese 5 Spice to Allspice, even though there is no allspice in it. Glad you enjoyed it. I'm sure it's a great blend!
  Reply
John aka Manny Parz says
March 14, 2022 at 5:43 pm

Love to make my own spices and the Jamaican Jerk Seasoning recipe is perfect. I did add to the recipe turmeric (1tsp, doesn't change the flavors, just is a good source of a natural spice that helps to combat inflammation). Thanks for the recipe.
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- Michael Hultquist - Chili Pepper Madness says
  March 15, 2022 at 6:31 am
  Wonderful! An excellent addition. Thanks for sharing!!
  Reply
Rebecca says
February 22, 2022 at 10:58 am
Question about all spice and then adding ground cinnamon, nutmeg and clove isn't that similar to what all spice provides? Just curious on that.
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- Michael Hultquist - Chili Pepper Madness says
  February 22, 2022 at 12:52 pm
  Rebecca, yes, there are similarities, but definite differences. In combination, you'll be surprised at the resulting flavor. I hope you enjoy it!
  Reply
Ronnie says
November 20, 2021 at 7:13 pm

Perfect thank you for sharing
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- Michael Hultquist - Chili Pepper Madness says
  November 21, 2021 at 8:24 am
  Thanks, Ronnie. Enjoy!
  Reply
Mary says
August 30, 2021 at 3:28 pm
Hi how can I sprinkle on oven baked sweet potato fries and have it stick to them? Thx
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- Michael Hultquist - Chili Pepper Madness says
  August 30, 2021 at 3:30 pm
  Mary, you could toss them in a bit of oil and season before cooking, or just a bit after.
  Reply
Peter Brown says
June 18, 2021 at 4:28 pm

excellent seasoning on the Dry rub, I add some custom wet ingredients including Molasses, Myers rub, Lime juice and finally I cook over pimento wood thats been soaked for a day or two, I create a bed with the wood, layer the wood with pimento leaves and slow steam through the wood and leaves.
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- Michael Hultquist - Chili Pepper Madness says
  June 18, 2021 at 10:16 pm
  Sounds quite amazing, Peter. I'll be right over for dinner!! =)
  Reply
Lee says
April 21, 2021 at 2:41 pm
I'm new to making spice mixes and I made this less spicy. It smells great and I'm looking forward to using it. But now I'm not sure how to use it. I saw one commenter adds oil, lime juice, more sugar and some other things to make a marinade. I would like to know how to make it a marinade without adding lots more. Will it suffice to add some olive oil to some amount of spice? For a pound of chicken, what would be the proportions? Thanks!
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- Michael Hultquist - Chili Pepper Madness says
  April 21, 2021 at 2:49 pm
  Lee, yes, you can add oil and/or vinegar and/or juices (pineapple juice, etc) to make a nice marinade with this. See my Jamaican Jerk Marinade recipe here: https://www.chilipeppermadness.com/recipes/jerk-marinade/. I include several links in the post to recipes you can make with it. It can be used to make a marinade, as a dry rub for meats, or as a general cooking seasoning. Really so many ways to use it. Take a look at some of the recipe and see if that helps - such as Jamaican Jerk Chicken, Grilled Jamaican Jerk Chicken Wings, Jamaican Jerk Marinade, Rasta Pasta with Shrimp, Jerk Rubbed Grilled Corn on the Cob, Rasta Pasta.
  Reply
Dan says
April 15, 2021 at 3:04 am

This is absolutely incredible. I made a double batch right off the bat because I could tell it was going to be a winner, and I’m SO glad I did. I keep trying little samples every now and then just by itself lol.
Now I’m ready to make something extra special with this....
Jamaican Jerk Jerky
I can’t wait!
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- Michael Hultquist - Chili Pepper Madness says
  April 15, 2021 at 5:16 am
  Thanks, Dan! I'll take some of that jerky! Haha, enjoy!
  Reply
Tracytaft says
March 21, 2021 at 6:43 pm
So 1/2 tsp to 1 cup of ketchup or bbq sauce?..
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- Michael Hultquist - Chili Pepper Madness says
  March 21, 2021 at 10:10 pm
  Correct. Then take a taste and see if that is enough. If you want to add more, add a little more.
  Reply
Tracy Taft says
March 21, 2021 at 7:06 am
How manytbsp should i add ty o 1 cup of bbq sauce?
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- Michael Hultquist - Chili Pepper Madness says
  March 21, 2021 at 9:18 am
  Tracy, I would add 1/2 teaspoon, taste, then adjust to taste from there.
  Reply
Sandra says
March 05, 2021 at 2:15 pm

I ended up using the creole seasoning prior to adding the recommended spices. I used it on pork chops and they came out delicious! Thank you for the recipe!
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- Michael Hultquist - Chili Pepper Madness says
  March 05, 2021 at 3:22 pm
  Great, Sandra!
  Reply
Sandra says
March 03, 2021 at 2:43 pm
How much of the cajón seasoning to use to add rest of spices?
Thank you.
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- Michael Hultquist - Chili Pepper Madness says
  March 03, 2021 at 3:04 pm
  Sandra, I would use anywhere from 6 tablespoons to 1/2 cup. Let me know how it goes for you.
  Reply
T. Markey says
March 01, 2021 at 5:57 am

Outstanding recipe; made the best, authentic jerk chicken last night!
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- Michael Hultquist - Chili Pepper Madness says
  March 01, 2021 at 7:13 am
  Excellent, thanks!
  Reply
M Cohen says
January 25, 2021 at 8:20 pm

Hi Mike
I came across a recipe for jerk shrimp. I have shelves filled with so many spices. I was not going to go out and buy a pre made jerk seasoning when I can make it in house...and I knew just where to go to find the right mix. When it comes to hot n spicy....you are the man! Thank you for this excellent recipe.
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- Michael Hultquist - Chili Pepper Madness says
  January 26, 2021 at 6:39 am
  Thanks so much! Glad you could make it at home! So much better that way. Enjoy!
  Reply
Michelle says
January 13, 2021 at 8:06 am

Delicious!!! This blend is so awesome. I eat vegetarian and it transforms chickpeas, vegetables, rice, everything into a wonderful main dish...easily! The flavors are great and the sugar gives a nice brown and depth to anything I cook. Do give this a try - Rasta Pasta; that’s what got me looking for a blend, and this one delivers! Thank you!!! This site has so many good recipes.
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- Michael Hultquist - Chili Pepper Madness says
  January 13, 2021 at 11:25 am
  Excellent! Super happy you like it, Michelle! Definitely a lot of flavor with this seasoning blend.
  Reply
Sam Johnson says
January 10, 2021 at 4:24 pm

I was very lucky to find this recipe. It's an absolute winner. Everyone I have made jerk chicken for using this rub just loves it.
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- Michael Hultquist - Chili Pepper Madness says
  January 11, 2021 at 7:19 am
  Excellent!! Thanks, Sam!
  Reply
Cassy says
January 03, 2021 at 2:58 pm

I love the recipe. The only adjustment I make is using 1 tbsp of brown sugar (I like more sweet with my spicy).
Reply
- Michael Hultquist - Chili Pepper Madness says
  January 03, 2021 at 7:09 pm
  Thanks, Cassy! Glad you enjoyed it!
  Reply
Linda McGehee says
December 31, 2020 at 2:24 pm

Thank you. I couldn't find jerk seasoning at the grocery store so thought I should just look online and sure enough, your great recipe. Plus, it was thoughtful to include some purchased seasonings that were similar but with your suggestions for additions to make them more authentic.
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- Michael Hultquist - Chili Pepper Madness says
  January 02, 2021 at 9:44 am
  Thanks so much, Linda!
  Reply
Josh says
December 21, 2020 at 6:56 pm

Love this seasoning, it’s great not only on meats but sides too. I’ve put it on fries, roasted potatoes, and even buttered popcorn!
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- Michael Hultquist - Chili Pepper Madness says
  December 22, 2020 at 7:26 am
  Excellent, Josh! Great to hear!
  Reply
Elaine says
September 03, 2020 at 4:08 am

Always wanted to try Jamaican cooking ,now I can! This jerk seasoning is amazing thanku so much!
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- Michael Hultquist - Chili Pepper Madness says
  September 03, 2020 at 5:23 am
  Thanks, Elaine! Enjoy!
  Reply
Tammy Miller says
July 24, 2020 at 1:57 pm

This is great! I sprinkle it on boneless skinless chicken thighs, then add 3 T seasoning to: 3T vegetable oil, 2T soy sauce, 1 T apple cider vinegar, 2 t brown sugar, juice of 1 lime. Marinate a day or so.
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- Michael Hultquist - Chili Pepper Madness says
  July 24, 2020 at 2:53 pm
  Nice! Sounds AWESOME, Tammy! I love it. Glad you enjoy it.
  Reply
Lakshmi says
July 14, 2020 at 2:15 pm
Easy to make, well written, and simple to follow recipe that turned out into a fab dish!! Never knew it was this easy to make jerk seasoning at home!
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- Michael Hultquist - Chili Pepper Madness says
  July 14, 2020 at 2:39 pm
  Thanks, Lakshmi! I appreciate it. Yes, super easy. And tasty!
  Reply
Tyrone A Caridine says
July 02, 2020 at 11:36 pm

I love it . Taste great feel like I’m in Jamaica. The only thing more to it was add a extra teaspoon of allspice to it and boom there was the real Jamaican flavor thanks
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- Michael Hultquist - Chili Pepper Madness says
  July 03, 2020 at 5:54 am
  Thanks, Tyrone! Glad you enjoyed it! Yep, easily adjustable to your own personal tastes. I love it.
  Reply
Chris says
June 27, 2020 at 5:20 am

I just came back to make another batch of this as it’s soooo good. Only adjustment I make is 1/4 tsp of ground clove.
I love your recipes and books.
Thanks for sharing your passion and knowledge of all things SPICE
Chris (Uk)
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- Michael Hultquist - Chili Pepper Madness says
  June 28, 2020 at 6:43 am
  Great addition, Chris! Love it.
  Reply
Margaret says
May 31, 2020 at 1:29 pm
I just made it, but now that I am looking at all your spices in the bowl, it looks like you used thyme leaves not ground thyme. (ground thyme is double the strength). Can you verify that with me? Too late for me this time.
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- Michael Hultquist - Chili Pepper Madness says
  May 31, 2020 at 2:01 pm
  Margaret, I often use dried thyme, as that is what I have on hand, but I also use ground thyme. I'll make an adjustment to the recipe to make that more clear.
  Reply
EDDIE says
May 13, 2020 at 6:45 pm

The seasonings were off the hook. Going to try it on shrimp this weekend
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- Michael Hultquist - Chili Pepper Madness says
  May 14, 2020 at 5:43 am
  Thanks, Eddie! Yes! Great seasoning for sure. I hope you enjoy the shrimp.
  Reply
Sandra says
May 06, 2020 at 10:32 am
Can I skip clove on this. Dont have in my pantry.
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- Michael Hultquist - Chili Pepper Madness says
  May 09, 2020 at 8:16 am
  Sandra, yes, you can skip the clove. It offers a very distinctive flavor, though. Still very good without it!
  Reply
Susan says
October 29, 2019 at 6:36 pm

Perfect seasoning! I used it on some sous vide pork chops tonight and they were really delicious!! Thank you for posting.
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- Michael Hultquist - Chili Pepper Madness says
  October 29, 2019 at 10:16 pm
  Thanks, Susan! I agree, it's a wonderful aromatic and flavorful seasoning!
  Reply
Ann says
May 23, 2019 at 11:47 am
Looked up Jerk Seasoning and have spent a little more time on it than I probably should have but, I am hungry for Jerk Chicken! Looking forward to the taste of your recipe tonight. Thanks a Bunch!!
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- Michael Hultquist - Chili Pepper Madness says
  May 23, 2019 at 11:49 am
  Excellent, Ann! I hope you enjoy it! Please let me know. =)
  Reply
Emily says
April 22, 2019 at 10:18 am
Great blend! I "made it my own" by substituting Persian loomi for the salt. Not exactly authentic Jamaican, but I love the subtle lime undertones it brings to the overall seasoning.
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- Michael Hultquist - Chili Pepper Madness says
  April 22, 2019 at 1:00 pm
  
  Sounds great, Emily! I love the addition of the lime. It would be a great addition here!
  Reply
Skip Stinson says
April 15, 2019 at 12:45 pm

THANKS!
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- Michael Hultquist - Chili Pepper Madness says
  April 15, 2019 at 1:19 pm
  Absolutely!
  Reply
Patrick Wherry says
April 15, 2019 at 11:17 am
Is this a dry rub? No water is added?
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- Michael Hultquist - Chili Pepper Madness says
  April 15, 2019 at 12:12 pm
  Patrick, yes, this is a dry rub/seasoning.
  Reply
Kelley says
October 16, 2016 at 6:25 pm

How manu teaspoons of sugar? Thanks!
REPLY: Kelley, 2 teaspoons. -- Mike from Chili Pepper Madness.
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Steve says
October 10, 2015 at 10:52 pm

Can't wait to try it thanks
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- Michael Hultquist - Chili Pepper Madness says
  April 22, 2019 at 1:01 pm
  I hope you like it, Steve!
  Reply