This Caribbean Jerk Pork recipe offers a mouthwatering blend of spices and flavors that will transport you straight to the islands. The pork is marinated in a spicy jerk seasoning, then slow-cooked until tender, making it perfect for a hearty, flavorful meal. This dish can be enjoyed on its own, with rice, or in sandwiches and tacos.

Appliances and Special Utensils

Ingredients

  • 4-5 lb pork shoulder (also known as pork butt)
  • 3 tbsp soy sauce
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp fresh thyme leaves
  • 1 tbsp ground allspice
  • 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
  • 1 tbsp ground ginger
  • 1 tbsp brown sugar
  • 1 tbsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
  • 1 tsp ground nutmeg
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 2 scotch bonnet peppers, seeded and chopped (use gloves)
  • Juice of 2 limes
  • 1/4 cup orange juice
  • 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Jerk Marinade: In a blender or food processor, combine the soy sauce, olive oil, chopped onion, minced garlic, thyme leaves, allspice, cinnamon, ginger, brown sugar, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, nutmeg, black pepper, salt, scotch bonnet peppers, lime juice, orange juice, and apple cider vinegar. Blend until smooth.

  2. Marinate the Pork: Place the pork shoulder in a large mixing bowl. Pour the jerk marinade over the pork, ensuring it is fully coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.

  3. Prepare the Slow Cooker: Remove the marinated pork from the refrigerator and place it in the slow cooker. Pour any remaining marinade over the pork.

  4. Cook the Pork: Set the slow cooker to low and cook for 8-10 hours, or until the pork is tender and easily pulls apart with a fork. Alternatively, you can cook on high for 4-6 hours.

  5. Shred the Pork: Once the pork is cooked, use tongs to transfer it to a cutting board. Use a sharp knife or Chef knife to shred the pork into bite-sized pieces.

  6. Serve: Return the shredded pork to the slow cooker, mixing it with the juices. Let it sit for a few minutes to absorb the flavors. Serve the Caribbean Jerk Pork with rice, in sandwiches, tacos, or as desired. Enjoy your flavorful Caribbean feast!