What is jerk sauce?

"Jerk" refers to a style of Jamaican cooking, not a specific sauce. Jerk sauce is a key ingredient in Jamaican jerk cuisine, and it's a marinade and a sauce that adds a unique flavor profile to meats, poultry, and even vegetables.

Here's what makes jerk sauce so distinctive:

* Spicy: The foundation of most jerk sauces is a blend of Scotch bonnet peppers (or other hot peppers), which provide a fiery kick.

* Aromatic: Jerk sauce gets its unique aroma and flavor from a combination of spices like allspice, thyme, garlic, ginger, scallions, and onions.

* Sweet and Savory: While the spiciness dominates, jerk sauce often incorporates a hint of sweetness from brown sugar or molasses.

* Versatile: Jerk sauce can be used for marinating meats, poultry, and vegetables before grilling, smoking, or roasting. It can also be used as a dipping sauce or added to dishes for an extra punch of flavor.

Note: The specific ingredients and ratios in jerk sauce vary depending on the recipe and region. Some versions may be very hot, while others are more mild.

If you're looking for a jerk sauce recipe, there are countless variations available online and in cookbooks. You can even find pre-made jerk sauces in most grocery stores.