Jamaica: Food, Culture and Travel
History of Authentic Jamaican Food
Jamaican Food originates from an island culture full of history, heritage, and people from all parts and corners of the world. Because the island of Jamaica has so much influence from all over the world, it’s no wonder that the food is so original, unique and tasty. The island of Jamaica roughly spans 4,400 square miles. When you are indulging in Jamaican cuisine, you are also tasting flavors from the Spanish, British, East Indian, West African, Portuguese, Chinese, French and the Dutch. You cannot help but be blown away by the rich culinary choices of Jamaica. From spicy Jerk Chicken straight off of a fiery grill to rich Jamaican coffees, your taste buds will never be the same after sampling these staples dishes and beverages from the island of Jamaican. Find free Jamaican food recipes for Jerk Chicken, Curry Goat, Beef Patties, and Jamaican Rum Punch and many more from our recipe collection for you to pick from.
What is the history of Jerk Chicken?
The term jerk is said to come from the word charqui, a Spanish term for jerked or dried meat, which eventually became jerky in English.
Another origin is linked to the jerking or poking of the meat with a sharp object, producing holes which were then filled with the spice mixture. The origins of jerk pork can be traced back to the pre-slavery days of the Cormantee hunters of West Africa through the Maroons, who were Jamaican slaves that escaped from the British during the invasion of 1655.
History of The Maroons in Jamaica
One of the most interesting groups in Jamaica are the Maroons, who are derived from escaped slaves of the Spanish. The Maroons were excellent fighters who took to the hills and stayed there, never to again be recaptured. They settled in a remote region south of what is now Montego Bay, called Cockpit Country, which is one of the #1 travel and vacation destinations in Jamaica.
Today the Maroons are self-governing, with their own elected officials. The most visited community in Cockpit Country is named Accompong and tours are available to this unique region. The Maroons, who for so long lived a completely self-sustained exiled existence off the land, are still known to be the island’s greatest herbalists.
