Jamaican Jerk Pork Ribs
Introduction
Jamaican Jerk Pork Ribs are a flavorful and spicy dish that evokes the vibrant essence of Jamaica, where it is often sold along the side of the road by local vendors. This delicious treat is particularly popular during the summer months and is best cooked over a barbecue, infusing the meat with smoky goodness. Whether you’re hosting a summer BBQ or just craving a quick and easy dinner, this dish is guaranteed to impress. While the prep time is minimal, the key to perfect jerk ribs is allowing them to marinate overnight for maximum flavor. This recipe comes from renowned chef Matthew Evans, and it’s a fantastic way to bring a taste of the Caribbean to your kitchen. Plus, there’s something about saying “Jerk” that makes the meal even more fun!
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Spanish onions | 100g |
| Garlic | 3 cloves |
| Fresh thyme | 3 sprigs |
| Salt | 1/2 tsp |
| Ground allspice | 1 tsp |
| Mace | 1/2 tsp |
| Black peppercorns | 1/2 tsp |
| Red chile | 1 whole (fresh or dried) |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 15.5 kcal |
| Fat | 0.2 g |
| Saturated Fat | 0.1 g |
| Cholesterol | 0 mg |
| Sodium | 196.1 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 3.6 g |
| Fiber | 0.6 g |
| Sugar | 1.1 g |
| Protein | 0.5 g |
Instructions
| Step | Instruction |
|---|---|
| 1. | Start by placing the Spanish onions, garlic, fresh thyme, and salt in a food processor. Blitz them together until the ingredients form a smooth paste. If the mixture is too thick, add a little oil to help it blend. |
| 2. | Add the ground allspice, mace, black peppercorns, and red chile into the food processor. Blitz again to incorporate the spices into the paste. |
| 3. | Once the marinade is ready, smear it generously over pork ribs or spare ribs, making sure the meat is well-coated. For best results, cover the ribs and let them marinate in the fridge overnight. |
| 4. | Preheat your barbecue. Brush the marinated ribs with a little oil and place them on the hot grill. Close the lid and cook for 5-10 minutes, or until the pork is just cooked through. The outside should be nicely browned and slightly charred, while the inside stays moist and tender. |
| 5. | If you prefer roasting the ribs in the oven, preheat it to 220°C (425°F) and roast the ribs for 10-15 minutes, or until cooked to your liking. The exterior should be dark and slightly crispy. |
| 6. | Serve hot and enjoy the burst of flavors in every bite! |
Recipe Notes
- Marination: Allowing the pork to marinate overnight is key to deepening the flavors, so be sure to give it time to soak up the spices.
- Grilling Tips: When grilling, keep an eye on the heat. Cooking on high heat with the lid closed will ensure the ribs are perfectly cooked with that smoky flavor.
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of red chile according to your preferred spice level. You can always add more if you love a kick of heat!
- Serving Suggestions: These Jamaican Jerk Pork Ribs are perfect served with traditional sides like rice and peas, grilled vegetables, or a fresh salad.
This easy yet flavorful recipe brings the authentic taste of Jamaica to your table. The smoky grilled pork, infused with bold spices and the aromatic marinade, will have you saying “Jerk” with joy every time you take a bite. It’s perfect for any outdoor gathering, and the best part is, it only takes 20 minutes of cooking time (excluding the marination period). The simplicity of the ingredients and the ease of preparation make this dish an excellent choice for anyone looking to try something new and exciting without spending hours in the kitchen.
