Jerk mayo is a game-changer for anyone who loves bold and spicy flavors with a creamy twist. Inspired by the vibrant spices of Jamaican jerk seasoning, this mayo adds a smoky heat that elevates sandwiches, burgers, and dips to a whole new level. It’s simple to make yet packed with flavor, making it a perfect addition to your condiment lineup.
We love how jerk mayo brings a touch of Caribbean flair to everyday meals without needing a lot of fuss. Whether you’re grilling, snacking, or looking for a zesty spread, this recipe delivers that perfect balance of heat and creaminess. Let’s dive into making this versatile sauce that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients
To craft the perfect jerk mayo, we combine authentic jerk seasoning spices with creamy mayonnaise and a few optional add-ins to boost flavor. Here’s everything you’ll need to make this vibrant and versatile condiment at home.
Jerk Seasoning Ingredients
Creating bold and aromatic jerk seasoning is essential for that distinctive Caribbean heat and flavor. Use fresh and ground spices as listed below:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Allspice berries | 1 tsp ground | Or 6-8 whole, crushed |
| Scotch bonnet pepper | 1 small | Finely chopped or seeded to control heat |
| Thyme | 1 tsp dried | Or 1 tbsp fresh leaves |
| Brown sugar | 1 tsp | Adds subtle sweetness |
| Cinnamon | 1/2 tsp ground | For warm undertones |
| Nutmeg | 1/4 tsp ground | Boosts depth of flavor |
| Ginger | 1 tsp fresh grated | Adds brightness |
| Garlic | 2 cloves minced | Adds savory pungency |
| Green onion | 1 stalk chopped | Freshness and mild sharpness |
| Salt | 1/2 tsp | Enhances all flavors |
| Black pepper | 1/2 tsp freshly ground | Adds heat and earthiness |
Mayonnaise Ingredients
For that rich and creamy base of jerk mayo, we rely on high-quality mayonnaise. You can either use store-bought or make your own for extra control.
- Mayonnaise – 1 cup (preferably full-fat for creaminess)
- Lime juice – 1 tbsp freshly squeezed for a zesty tang
- Honey – 1 tsp to balance spice with sweetness (optional)
Optional Add-Ins
To customize our jerk mayo and amplify the flavor experience, consider adding:
- Smoked paprika – 1/2 tsp for smoky richness
- Cilantro – 1 tbsp finely chopped for herbaceous notes
- Hot sauce – 1 tsp to boost heat intensity
- Olive oil – 1 tbsp to adjust texture and silkiness
These ingredients come together to create a vibrant, creamy, and spicy jerk mayo that brightens any meal with Caribbean flair.
Equipment Needed
To make our delicious Jerk Mayo Recipe, having the right equipment ensures a smooth and efficient process. Here’s what we recommend for the best results:
- Mixing Bowl: Choose a medium-sized bowl to combine all ingredients comfortably without spilling.
- Whisk or Fork: A whisk works best to achieve a smooth, creamy consistency, but a fork can also do the job.
- Measuring Spoons: Precise measurements of spices and seasonings are essential for balancing the bold flavors of the jerk seasoning.
- Cutting Board and Knife: For mincing fresh garlic or chopping optional fresh herbs like cilantro.
- Airtight Container or Jar: To store the jerk mayo and let the flavors meld before serving.
- Small Spoon or Spatula: Useful for mixing and scraping the bowl clean without waste.
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Mixing Bowl | Combine ingredients efficiently |
| Whisk or Fork | Blend to creamy, smooth consistency |
| Measuring Spoons | Accurate spice measurement |
| Cutting Board & Knife | Prep fresh ingredients |
| Airtight Container/Jar | Store and marinate the jerk mayo |
| Spoon or Spatula | Mix and scrape bowl |
Tip: Using fresh and dedicated tools enhances the overall flavor and texture of our Jerk Mayo. Clean equipment prevents unwanted taste contamination.
We find that these simple tools help us maintain a quick preparation time while ensuring the rich, spicy creaminess of the jerk mayo shines through perfectly.
Preparation
To create the perfect Jerk Mayo, precise preparation ensures every flavor element shines through. Let’s break down the steps for preparing the jerk seasoning and crafting the creamy, spicy mayo base.
Preparing the Jerk Seasoning
We start by combining the essential spices that bring authentic Jamaican jerk flavor to life. Use freshly ground and measured spices for maximum aroma and taste.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Preparation Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Allspice | 1 teaspoon | Ground |
| Scotch bonnet pepper | 1 small pepper | Finely chopped (handle carefully) |
| Fresh thyme | 1 teaspoon | Chopped |
| Garlic cloves | 2 cloves | Minced |
| Ground cinnamon | ½ teaspoon | Optional for warmth |
| Smoked paprika | 1 teaspoon | Adds depth and smoky flavor |
| Brown sugar | 1 teaspoon | Balances heat and spice |
| Salt | ½ teaspoon | To taste |
| Black pepper | ¼ teaspoon | Freshly ground |
- Combine all dry spices in a small bowl.
- Add minced garlic and Scotch bonnet pepper to the spices.
- Stir thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly distributed, creating a vibrant and aromatic jerk seasoning blend.
Making the Jerk Mayo
Next, we blend the seasoning with mayonnaise to achieve a creamy yet spicy condiment.
Ingredients for the Mayo:
- 1 cup high-quality mayonnaise
- Prepared jerk seasoning (from previous step)
- 1 teaspoon fresh lime juice
- 1 tablespoon chopped cilantro (optional for freshness)
- Few drops of hot sauce (optional to boost heat)
- Salt to taste
Step-by-step preparation:
- In a medium-sized bowl, add 1 cup of mayonnaise as our creamy base.
- Incorporate 2 tablespoons of our prepared jerk seasoning into the mayo.
- Mix gently but thoroughly using a whisk or fork until the seasoning is fully integrated and the mayo has a rich orange-brown hue.
- Add 1 teaspoon of fresh lime juice to brighten the flavor.
- Stir in chopped cilantro and hot sauce if desired to customize heat and freshness.
- Taste and adjust salt or seasoning as needed for balance.
The result is a silky, vibrant jerk mayo that blends heat, sweetness, and spice perfectly — ready to elevate sandwiches, burgers, or dips.
Instructions
Follow these precise steps to create our luscious Jerk Mayo. The process is simple yet guarantees a creamy, spicy condiment bursting with authentic Caribbean flavor.
Mixing the Ingredients
- Prepare your workspace: Place your medium-sized mixing bowl, whisk or fork, and measuring spoons ready at hand.
- Combine the dry spices: In the bowl, add the following jerk seasoning components:
| Ingredient | Measurement | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Ground allspice | 1 teaspoon | Freshly ground preferred |
| Finely chopped Scotch bonnet pepper | 1 small pepper | Deseeded if less heat desired |
| Fresh thyme leaves | 1 tablespoon | Finely chopped |
| Minced garlic | 2 cloves | |
| Ground cinnamon | 1/4 teaspoon | Optional |
| Smoked paprika | 1 teaspoon | Optional |
- Add creamy base: Pour 1 cup of high-quality mayonnaise into the bowl over the dry spices.
- Incorporate liquid elements: Squeeze 1 tablespoon of fresh lime juice and add 1 teaspoon of your preferred hot sauce for an extra kick.
- Blend thoroughly: Whisk all the ingredients together vigorously until the mixture appears smooth, silky, and uniformly colored with vibrant specks of seasoning.
Adjusting the Flavor
Now we tailor the jerk mayo to our own palate to strike the perfect balance between creamy richness and bold spice.
- For milder heat: Add more mayonnaise in 1 tablespoon increments until the spice level is comfortable.
- For extra warmth: Stir in a pinch more Scotch bonnet pepper or an additional dash of hot sauce.
- To brighten flavors: Add a few more drops of lime juice gradually.
- To enhance herbaceous notes: Mix in a teaspoon of freshly chopped cilantro.
- For smoky depth: Incorporate an extra 1/2 teaspoon of smoked paprika if preferred.
“Properly balancing these elements is the secret to a mouthwatering jerk mayo that complements any dish.”
Once satisfied, transfer the jerk mayo into an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld fully. We are ready to elevate sandwiches, burgers, or dipping sauces with this Caribbean-inspired delight.
Serving Suggestions
Our Jerk Mayo brings a bold Caribbean flair to many dishes. Here are some of the best ways to enjoy this creamy, spicy condiment:
1. Sandwiches and Burgers
Spread a generous layer of Jerk Mayo on sandwich bread or burger buns. It pairs perfectly with grilled chicken, juicy beef patties, or even crispy veggie burgers. The spice and creaminess elevate each bite, adding depth and zest.
2. Dipping Sauce
Use Jerk Mayo as a dip for finger foods like fries, sweet potato wedges, chicken tenders, or roasted vegetables. Its tangy and spicy notes transform simple snacks into flavorful treats. Keep a bowl ready for any casual gathering.
3. Salad Dressing
Thin out Jerk Mayo with a bit of lime juice or olive oil to create a spicy, creamy dressing. Toss it with mixed greens, cucumbers, and tomatoes for a refreshing salad with a kick.
4. Seafood Companion
Serve Jerk Mayo alongside grilled shrimp, fish tacos, or crab cakes. The mayo’s richness complements the seafood’s natural flavors, offering a delicious blend of heat and creaminess.
5. Grain Bowls
Drizzle Jerk Mayo over rice bowls or quinoa salads topped with roasted veggies, beans, and protein. It adds a vibrant, spicy touch that ties all the ingredients together.
| Serving Method | Recommended Partner Foods | Flavor Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Sandwich Spread | Grilled chicken, beef, veggie patties | Creamy, spicy, enhances texture |
| Dipping Sauce | Fries, sweet potato wedges, chicken tenders | Tangy, savory, crowd-pleaser |
| Salad Dressing | Mixed greens, cucumbers, tomatoes | Fresh, zesty, lightens dishes |
| Seafood Companion | Grilled shrimp, fish tacos, crab cakes | Rich, spicy, complements seafood |
| Grain Bowl Drizzle | Rice, quinoa, roasted veggies, beans | Bright, cohesive flavor boost |
Tip: Refrigerate your Jerk Mayo until serving cold. The flavors develop further when chilled, making it even more irresistible.
Storage and Shelf Life
Proper storage is essential to maintain the vibrant flavors and creamy texture of our Jerk Mayo. Here are key steps to keep your jerk mayo fresh and safe to enjoy:
- Transfer the jerk mayo into an airtight container immediately after preparation to minimize exposure to air and contaminants.
- Store the container in the refrigerator at a consistent temperature below 40°F (4°C).
- Avoid double-dipping or using utensils that have contacted other foods to prevent spoilage.
Recommended Shelf Life
| Storage Condition | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerated | 5 to 7 days | Best consumed within this timeframe for peak freshness |
| Room Temperature | Not recommended | May spoil rapidly due to mayo base and spices |
| Freezing | Not advised | Freezing alters texture and flavor; avoid if possible |
“Always label your container with the preparation date. This helps us track freshness and enjoy our jerk mayo at its best.”
Tips to Monitor Freshness
- Check for any off odor, discoloration, or separation before use.
- If the mayo develops a sour or unpleasant smell, or the texture becomes watery or curdled, discard it immediately.
- For safety and quality, consume within one week of making the jerk mayo.
By following these Storage and Shelf Life guidelines, we ensure our jerk mayo retains its bold Caribbean spice kick and creamy consistency every time we use it.
Conclusion
Jerk mayo is a simple yet powerful way to add a burst of Caribbean flavor to your meals. Its creamy texture combined with bold, spicy notes makes it a versatile condiment that elevates everything from sandwiches to seafood.
By making it ourselves, we control the heat and freshness, ensuring every bite is perfectly balanced. With just a few ingredients and easy steps, jerk mayo becomes a staple that brings excitement to everyday dishes.
Keep it chilled and enjoy the vibrant flavors whenever you want to add a little island flair to your cooking.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is jerk mayo?
Jerk mayo is a creamy condiment made by combining classic mayonnaise with Jamaican jerk seasoning spices like allspice, Scotch bonnet pepper, thyme, and garlic. It offers a spicy, flavorful twist to sandwiches, burgers, dips, and more.
What ingredients are needed to make jerk mayo?
Basic jerk mayo includes mayonnaise, allspice, Scotch bonnet pepper, thyme, garlic, and lime juice. Optional ingredients like smoked paprika, hot sauce, and cilantro can be added to customize flavor and heat.
How do I make jerk mayo at home?
Mix ground jerk spices with mayonnaise and lime juice in a bowl. Add optional herbs or hot sauce if desired. Whisk until smooth, then refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let flavors meld.
What equipment do I need?
You’ll need a medium mixing bowl, whisk or fork, measuring spoons, cutting board and knife for fresh herbs or peppers, and an airtight container for storing the mayo.
How should jerk mayo be stored?
Store jerk mayo in an airtight container in the refrigerator at or below 40°F (4°C). It keeps well for 5 to 7 days. Avoid room temperature storage and freezing to maintain texture and flavor.
Can jerk mayo be used in multiple ways?
Yes! Use it as a spread on sandwiches and burgers, a dip for finger foods, a salad dressing (thinned with lime juice or olive oil), a seafood sauce, or a drizzle over grain bowls.
How spicy is jerk mayo?
The heat depends on how much Scotch bonnet pepper and hot sauce you use. You can adjust the spice level to your liking, from mild to fiery.
Why refrigerate jerk mayo before serving?
Refrigerating for at least 30 minutes allows the flavors to fully blend, enhancing the balance of heat and creaminess for a richer taste experience.