Scott Willinsky

Jerk seasoning was developed by the original inhabitants of Jamaica, the Arawak Indians. It was developed and applied to various types of meats to help preserve it from the tropical island heat. This seasoning was rubbed on the meat and then it was dried over open pit fires. The meaning of the term “jerk” as it relates to this type of cooking is thought to mean “dried meat”. However, many believe it is derived from the actual method of constantly turning (jerking) the meat as it cooks.