Jerk Chicken

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Jerk chicken is one of Jamaica's most famous dishes, and street vendors offering this spicy, flavorful meal can be found throughout the island. Here are some of the easiest and most popular locations to find street food vendors selling authentic Jerk Chicken in Jamaica:

Kingston

  - Boston Jerk Centre: Although technically located in Portland, this spot is often associated with Kingston as a popular day trip. It's the birthplace of jerk and has multiple vendors selling authentic jerk chicken.

   - Red Hills Road: Known for its vibrant street food scene at night, this area has several jerk chicken stalls.

  - Hellshire Beach: A popular beach spot near Kingston with several food shacks serving jerk chicken, fish, and other local delights.

Ingredients:

For the Marinade:

- 1 whole chicken, cut into pieces (or 4-6 chicken legs/thighs)

- 1 large onion, chopped

- 4-6 green onions (scallions), chopped

- 1-2 Scotch bonnet peppers (adjust to taste), chopped

- 3 cloves garlic, minced

- 1 tbsp fresh ginger, minced

- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice

- 2 tbsp soy sauce

- 2 tbsp olive oil

- 2 tbsp brown sugar

- 1 tbsp dried thyme

- 1 tsp ground allspice

- 1 tsp ground cinnamon

- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg

- 1/2 tsp ground cloves

- 1 tsp black pepper

- 1 tsp salt

For Grilling:

- Additional lime wedges (for serving)

- Fresh cilantro or parsley (for garnish, optional)

Instructions:

Prepare the Marinade:

1. In a blender or food processor, combine the chopped onion, green onions, Scotch bonnet peppers, garlic, ginger, lime juice, soy sauce, olive oil, brown sugar, thyme, allspice, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, black pepper, and salt.

2. Blend until smooth to create a thick marinade.

Marinate the Chicken:

1. Place the chicken pieces in a large resealable plastic bag or a large bowl.

2. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure all pieces are well coated.

3. Seal the bag or cover the bowl with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.

Grill the Chicken:

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.

2. Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess drip off. Reserve the remaining marinade.

3. Place the chicken pieces on the grill, skin side down. Grill for about 5-7 minutes on each side, turning occasionally to prevent burning.

4. Reduce the heat to medium-low and continue to cook the chicken, basting occasionally with the reserved marinade, until the chicken is cooked through and has an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), about 25-30 minutes total.

5. If you don't have a grill, you can also bake the chicken in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 45-50 minutes, basting occasionally with the reserved marinade.

Serve:

1. Transfer the grilled jerk chicken to a serving platter.

2. Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley if desired.

3. Serve with lime wedges on the side.

Tips:

- Spice Level: Scotch bonnet peppers are very spicy. Adjust the quantity based on your heat tolerance. You can also substitute with habanero peppers for a similar heat level.

- Marinade: The longer the chicken marinates, the more flavorful it will be. Overnight marination is ideal.

- Cooking Method: While grilling is traditional for jerk chicken, you can also bake or broil the chicken for a different texture.

- Sides: Jerk chicken is often served with rice and peas, fried plantains, or a simple salad.

Jerk Chicken is a flavorful and aromatic dish that brings the taste of Jamaica to your table. The combination of spices, herbs, and the unique heat of Scotch bonnet peppers creates a truly unforgettable culinary experience. Enjoy!

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