How to make jerk gravy

Harrison Clayton December 14, 2022 6

If you’re a fan of Caribbean cuisine and enjoy bold and spicy flavors, then you need to try jerk gravy. This delicious and aromatic sauce is a staple in Jamaican cooking and is the perfect dressing for any meat or vegetable dish. Made with a combination of spices, herbs, and aromatics, jerk gravy adds a fiery kick and a new dimension of flavor to any recipe, taking it to a whole new level.

To make jerk gravy, you will need a few key ingredients such as scallions, thyme, garlic, ginger, allspice, Scotch bonnet peppers, and soy sauce, among others. These ingredients come together to create a marinade that tenderizes and flavors the protein of your choice. The longer you marinate your meat or vegetables, the more intense the flavors will become.

First, gather all your ingredients and ensure that everything is prepped and ready to go before you begin. This will make the cooking process much smoother. Start by finely chopping your scallions, garlic, and ginger, which will form the base of your gravy. You can also use a food processor to save time and achieve a smoother consistency.

To add a pop of heat to your gravy, include a Scotch bonnet pepper, which is a traditional choice in Jamaican cooking. However, be cautious when handling this pepper, as it can be extremely hot. Remember to wear gloves and avoid touching your face or eyes after handling it. Remove the seeds and finely chop the pepper, or keep it whole if you prefer a milder heat. You can adjust the amount based on your spice tolerance.

Easy Recipe for Making Delicious Jerk Gravy

If you’re looking to add a delicious burst of flavor to your meals, jerk gravy is a fantastic option. Bursting with Caribbean spices and a hint of heat, this easy recipe will have your taste buds dancing. We’ve got you covered with a simple step-by-step guide to help you make the perfect jerk gravy every time.

Ingredients:

To make this jerk gravy recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:

1 onion, chopped
4 cloves of garlic, minced
2 scallions, finely chopped
1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
1 tablespoon allspice
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
2 cups chicken stock
2 tablespoons soy sauce
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
2 tablespoons cornstarch (optional, for thickening)

Instructions:

In a large saucepan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and finely chopped scallions. Cook until the onions are soft and translucent.
Add the thyme leaves, allspice, brown sugar, black pepper, salt, paprika, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg to the saucepan. Stir well to combine and let the spices cook for about 2 minutes.
Pour in the chicken stock, soy sauce, and Worcestershire sauce. Simmer the mixture for about 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
If desired, to thicken the gravy, make a slurry by mixing cornstarch with a small amount of water. Slowly pour the cornstarch mixture into the saucepan while stirring continuously until the desired thickness is achieved.
Remove the saucepan from the heat and let it cool slightly. Use a blender or an immersion blender to blend the mixture until smooth and creamy.
Return the saucepan to low heat and let the gravy simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
Remove from heat and let the jerk gravy cool slightly before serving over your favorite meats or vegetables.

This jerk gravy is a versatile and flavorful addition to any dish. Drizzle it over roasted chicken, grilled pork, or even roasted vegetables for a deliciously spicy kick. So, grab your apron and get ready to impress your family and friends with this easy and mouthwatering jerk gravy recipe!

Gather the Ingredients

To make jerk gravy, you will need the following ingredients:

2 tablespoons of jerk seasoning: This will give the gravy its signature spicy and savory flavor.
2 tablespoons of vegetable oil: The oil will be used to cook the seasonings and thicken the gravy.
1 onion, chopped: The onion will add sweetness and depth to the gravy.
2 cloves of garlic, minced: Garlic is a key ingredient in jerk seasoning and will enhance the flavor of the gravy.
1 cup of chicken or vegetable broth: The broth will provide a rich base for the gravy.
2 tablespoons of soy sauce: Soy sauce adds a salty umami taste to the gravy.
2 tablespoons of Worcestershire sauce: Worcestershire sauce brings a tangy and slightly sweet flavor to the gravy.
1 tablespoon of cornstarch: Cornstarch will be used as a thickening agent to give the gravy a velvety texture.
Salt and pepper to taste: Season the gravy with salt and pepper to enhance the overall flavor.

Prepare the marinade

To make jerk gravy, the key is to start with a flavorful marinade. This marinade will infuse delicious spices and flavors into the meat, creating a mouthwatering dish. Here’s how to prepare the marinade:

Gather your ingredients

Before you begin, make sure you have all the necessary ingredients for the marinade. Here’s what you’ll need:

1/4 cup soy sauce
1/4 cup brown sugar
2 tablespoons vinegar
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon jerk seasoning
1 tablespoon minced garlic
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon ground allspice
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for extra heat)

Combine the ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, vinegar, olive oil, jerk seasoning, minced garlic, dried thyme, ground allspice, ground black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if desired). Make sure all the ingredients are well combined.

Alternatively, you can place all the ingredients in a blender or food processor and blitz until smooth.

Marinate the meat

Place your choice of meat, such as chicken, beef, or pork, in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the meat, making sure it is fully covered. If using a plastic bag, seal it tightly, removing as much air as possible. If using a dish, cover it with plastic wrap.

Allow the meat to marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight. This will give the flavors time to penetrate the meat and enhance its taste.

Remember to turn the meat occasionally to ensure even marination.

Once the meat is fully marinated, it is ready to be cooked and used to make your delicious jerk gravy!

Cook and Thicken the Gravy

Once you have prepared the jerk sauce and added it to the stock mixture, it’s time to cook and thicken the gravy. This step is essential to ensure a rich and flavorful sauce for your dish.

Cooking the Gravy

Place the stock mixture with the jerk sauce in a large saucepan or skillet. Heat it over medium-high heat until it comes to a boil. Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for about 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

While the mixture simmers, stir occasionally to prevent the sauce from burning and sticking to the pan. If the liquid reduces too quickly, add a little more stock to maintain the desired consistency.

Thickening the Gravy

Once the gravy has simmered and developed a depth of flavor, it’s time to thicken it. There are a few methods you can use to achieve this:

Cornstarch Slurry: Mix 1-2 tablespoons of cornstarch with an equal amount of water to create a slurry. Slowly pour the slurry into the simmering gravy while whisking continuously. Continue whisking for a couple of minutes until the gravy thickens to your desired consistency. Be careful not to add too much cornstarch as it can result in a starchy taste.
Roux: In a separate small pan, melt 1-2 tablespoons of butter. Add an equal amount of flour and whisk constantly until the mixture forms a smooth paste, known as a roux. Add the roux to the simmering gravy, stirring continuously. Cook for a few minutes until the gravy thickens and the flour taste cooks out.
Reduction: If you prefer a more intense, concentrated gravy, you can reduce the sauce further by continuing to simmer it over low heat. The liquid will evaporate, resulting in a thicker gravy. Keep in mind that this method will also intensify the spices and flavors, so adjust accordingly.

Once you have achieved the desired thickness, remove the gravy from the heat and let it cool slightly before serving. The gravy will continue to thicken as it cools, so make sure to factor this into your cooking time. Now, your jerk gravy is ready to be enjoyed on your favorite dish!

Harrison Clayton

Meet Harrison Clayton, a distinguished author and home remodeling enthusiast whose expertise in the realm of renovation is second to none. With a passion for transforming houses into inviting homes, Harrison's writing at https://thehuts-eastbourne.co.uk/ brings a breath of fresh inspiration to the world of home improvement. Whether you're looking to revamp a small corner of your abode or embark on a complete home transformation, Harrison's articles provide the essential expertise and creative flair to turn your visions into reality. So, dive into the captivating world of home remodeling with Harrison Clayton and unlock the full potential of your living space with every word he writes.