what exactly is "Jerk"

Salty Dog · April 2009

I was recently in Jamiaca and had the opportunity to sample the local jerk chicken;the best I had being at a little stand in Negril called, oddly enough, "Best in the West". I was wondering if anyone could tell me what it is about the jerk rub and sauce that make it "jerk" as opposed to just another BBQ rub and sauce?

Panhandle Smoker · April 2009

Maybe this will help.
http://homecooking.about.com/od/foodhistory/a/jerkhistory.htm
History
http://homecooking.about.com/od/foodhistory/a/jerkhistory.htm

Nature Boy · April 2009

Howdy John
From what I know (still a lot to learn), jerk is a marinade that has soy sauce, ginger, scallions....and what makes it "jerk" is the jamaican allspice and the scotch bonnet peppers. Bunch of other stuff too, but like "curry", they are all different. The allspice and the heat from the super-hot peppers are the main flavors to "jerk". Hope that helps!
Chris

Salty Dog · April 2009

Very informative. Thanks!

CampyMan · April 2009

I cook jerk chicken/Pork/wings pretty much every weekend - if you can find a Caribbean / Jamaican Grocery Market (there are several her in MD/DC/VA) you should look for either Grace or Walkers Wood (people who grew up in Jamaica consistently rate it as the best)
I'll put chicken in a Ziploc and let the meat marinate for close to 24 hrs. Cooked on a BGE - it is awesome!!

Salty Dog · April 2009

Thanks, Chris. I think the consensus is that the scotch bonnet peppers, all-spice and maybe thyme seem to be the vital ingedients.

Lawn Ranger · April 2009

That would be Max when he's in one of his "moods".

Mike

Car Wash Mike · April 2009

"WEW" dodged that one.

Mike

Lawn Ranger · April 2009

Just barely, My Friend. I had to flip about 4 coins. :silly:

LR

JohnB · April 2009

my understanding is that the word "Jerk" or "Jerking" actually refers to poking holes in the cut of meat with a sharp stick. This is referenced in the first reply of this thread.

Big'un · April 2009

A lot of different answers to be sure.

What I refer to jerk or jerked meat(no laughter please)is the use of the original jamacain spices and paste. It is usually a paste and you rub the meat down. Just like mojo is a type/method of seasoning. Tandoori is another. It's a regional thing that has spread beyond it's original borders. Hope that helps!

DrZaius · April 2009

According to my wife the answer is clear.

Unknown · April 2009

ooops, i thought i was being "pinged"

Big'un · April 2009

Leave me outa this! :ohmy:

what exactly is "Jerk"

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