This homemade jerk BBQ sauce recipe combines the bold and vibrant flavors of Caribbean spices with the tangy sweetness of traditional BBQ sauce.
With the perfect balance of spicy heat from jerk paste, a hint of sweetness from honey, and the tropical zest of pineapple and lime, this sauce is a flavorful addition to any grilled dish.
The rich blend of cinnamon, ginger, allspice, and nutmeg gives it a warm, aromatic depth, while the dried thyme adds an earthy touch.
Whether used as a glaze for meats or a dipping sauce for grilled vegetables, this jerk BBQ sauce recipe adds a unique twist to your cooking.
Quick and easy to prepare, it’s the ideal way to bring exciting flavors to your next BBQ or family meal.
Why This Jerk BBQ Sauce Recipe Is The Only One You’ll Need
This Jerk BBQ Sauce recipe is the only one you’ll need because it perfectly blends bold Caribbean flavors with the tangy sweetness of traditional BBQ sauce, creating a versatile and unforgettable taste.
The balance of spicy jerk paste, sweet pineapple juice, and a hint of lime gives it a unique tropical flair, while the warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger provide depth and complexity.
It’s easy to make, requiring just a few ingredients and a short cooking time, making it perfect for weeknight meals or summer BBQs. Once you try it, you’ll never want to use another BBQ sauce again!
How To Prepare Jerk BBQ Sauce Recipe?
Recipe Details
Preparation Time: 5 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Course: Sauce/Dip
Difficulty: Easy
Cuisine: Caribbean
Calories: Approximately 50 per serving (depends on serving size)
Yield: About 1.5 cups of sauce (6 servings)
Kitchen Utensils
- Medium saucepan
- Wooden spoon or whisk
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Small bowl (for mixing)
- Stove or heat source
Ingredients
- 1 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 6 oz canned pineapple juice
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
- 1.5–2 tablespoons Walkerswood Jerk Paste (medium or as desired)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon allspice
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 2 teaspoons dried thyme leaves (not ground)
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Base:
In a medium saucepan, add the olive oil and heat over medium heat. Once hot, add the ketchup, apple cider vinegar, and pineapple juice. Stir the mixture well to combine.
2. Add Sweet and Tangy Ingredients:
Stir in the honey, Worcestershire sauce, and fresh lime juice. Continue to mix until everything is well incorporated.
3. Add the Spices:
Add the jerk paste, cinnamon, ground ginger, allspice, nutmeg, thyme, and salt. Stir until all the spices are evenly distributed and the sauce takes on a rich aroma.
4. Simmer the Sauce:
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally. Allow the sauce to cook for 10-12 minutes, reducing slightly and thickening. Taste and adjust seasoning, adding more jerk paste for extra heat if desired.
5. Finish and Serve:
Once the sauce has thickened to your liking, remove from heat. Let it cool slightly before serving as a glaze or dipping sauce with grilled meats, vegetables, or your favorite BBQ dishes.
Special Note
This jerk BBQ sauce recipe is versatile! You can use it as a marinade for meats like chicken, pork, or beef, or slather it onto grilled vegetables.
It’s also perfect for dipping your fries, wings, or even drizzling over a burger. You can make this sauce in advance and store it in an airtight container for up to two weeks in the fridge.
If you love a smoky flavor, feel free to add a bit more smoked paprika or even a few drops of liquid smoke.
If you’re not familiar with jerk seasoning, it’s a Caribbean spice blend that typically includes ingredients like allspice, thyme, cinnamon, and scotch bonnet peppers.
You can find it pre-made at many grocery stores, or you can make your own by combining these spices with a bit of brown sugar.
Serving Suggestions
This Jerk BBQ Sauce Recipe pairs perfectly with a variety of grilled and roasted foods. Here are some great serving ideas:
✔ Grilled Chicken: Brush this sauce over chicken breasts or thighs for an irresistible Caribbean twist.
✔ BBQ Ribs: Slather this sauce generously on your ribs during the last few minutes of grilling to get that caramelized, smoky finish.
✔ Grilled Vegetables: Use this sauce to glaze veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, or sweet potatoes for a spicy-sweet flavor combination.
✔ Burgers: Top your burgers with a spoonful of this jerk BBQ sauce for an exciting, zesty upgrade.
Health Benefits
While this jerk BBQ sauce recipe isn’t exactly a health food, it does offer a few benefits when used in moderation:
➤ Antioxidants: Spices like cinnamon, ginger, and allspice are rich in antioxidants, which can help combat oxidative stress in the body.
➤ Anti-Inflammatory Properties: Ingredients like ginger and cayenne pepper have natural anti-inflammatory effects, which may help reduce pain and swelling in the body.
➤ Improved Digestion: The spices used in jerk seasoning, including thyme and ginger, are known for their digestive benefits, promoting a healthy gut.
What Is Jerk BBQ?
Jerk BBQ is a cooking style and seasoning originating from Jamaica. It combines a flavorful marinade or rub made with a unique blend of spices like allspice, thyme, and scotch bonnet peppers.
This bold, smoky, and spicy marinade is typically used on meats like chicken or pork, creating a distinct, savory, and aromatic barbecue experience.
Is Jerk BBQ Sauce Spicy?
Yes, jerk BBQ sauce recipe can be spicy, depending on the amount of hot peppers used. Traditional jerk seasoning includes scotch bonnet peppers, which add significant heat.
However, you can adjust the spice level to your taste by controlling the amount of hot sauce or peppers in the recipe, making it as mild or fiery as you prefer.
What Flavour Is Jerk?
Jerk flavor is a unique combination of smoky, spicy, and savory notes. It blends aromatic spices like allspice, cinnamon, and nutmeg with fresh ingredients like thyme and scotch bonnet peppers.
The result is a bold and vibrant flavor profile, with a heat kick balanced by earthy sweetness and a touch of tanginess, making it truly distinctive.
Here Are Some BBQ Sauce Recipes You Might Enjoy
James River BBQ Sauce Recipe [Mid-Atlantic]
Chipotle BBQ Sauce Recipe [Sweet, Smoky, and Spicy]
BBQ Sauce Recipe With Grape Jelly || Best Here
BBQ Sauce For Canning Recipe | Sweet And Smoky
Molasses BBQ Sauce Recipe | Sweet & Smoky
FAQs About Jerk BBQ Sauce Recipe
Can I adjust the spiciness of jerk BBQ sauce?
Yes, you can control the heat by adjusting the amount of jerk paste or scotch bonnet peppers used. For a milder sauce, use less paste or opt for a milder variety of jerk seasoning.
How long does jerk BBQ sauce last?
When stored in an airtight container in the fridge, jerk BBQ sauce can last up to 1-2 weeks. Be sure to store it in a clean, sealed jar for the best shelf life.
Can I use jerk BBQ sauce on other foods?
Absolutely! Jerk BBQ sauce is great on chicken, pork, beef, and even grilled vegetables. It also works as a dipping sauce or marinade for a variety of dishes.
Is jerk BBQ sauce vegan?
Most jerk BBQ sauces are vegan, but be sure to check the ingredient list for any non-vegan additives, like honey. You can substitute with maple syrup or agave nectar for a fully vegan version.
Can I make jerk BBQ sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the sauce ahead of time. In fact, the flavors may deepen and improve after sitting for a few hours or overnight in the fridge. Just give it a good stir before using!
Conclusion
This Jerk BBQ Sauce Recipe combines the bold flavors of the Caribbean with the rich sweetness of classic BBQ, making it the perfect addition to your grilling repertoire.
The heat from the scotch bonnet peppers and the sweetness from the molasses and brown sugar create a complex flavor profile that will have your taste buds dancing.
It’s easy to make, and the results are absolutely worth it. I hope you enjoy making and tasting this jerk BBQ sauce recipe as much as I do.
Let me know how it turns out for you, and feel free to adjust the spice levels to your liking. Happy cooking!
Jerk BBQ Sauce Recipe
Equipment
- Medium saucepan
- Wooden spoon or whisk
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Small bowl (for mixing)
- Stove or heat source
Ingredients
- 1 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 6 oz canned pineapple juice
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
- 1.5 –2 tablespoons Walkerswood Jerk Paste medium or as desired
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon allspice
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 2 teaspoons dried thyme leaves not ground
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 tablespoon olive oil for sautéing
Instructions
Prepare the Base:
- In a medium saucepan, add the olive oil and heat over medium heat. Once hot, add the ketchup, apple cider vinegar, and pineapple juice. Stir the mixture well to combine.
Add Sweet and Tangy Ingredients:
- Stir in the honey, Worcestershire sauce, and fresh lime juice. Continue to mix until everything is well incorporated.
Add the Spices:
- Add the jerk paste, cinnamon, ground ginger, allspice, nutmeg, thyme, and salt. Stir until all the spices are evenly distributed and the sauce takes on a rich aroma.
Simmer the Sauce:
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally. Allow the sauce to cook for 10-12 minutes, reducing slightly and thickening. Taste and adjust seasoning, adding more jerk paste for extra heat if desired.
Finish and Serve:
- Once the sauce has thickened to your liking, remove from heat. Let it cool slightly before serving as a glaze or dipping sauce with grilled meats, vegetables, or your favorite BBQ dishes.