Jerk spice instantly makes me think of bold flavor and bold people. Different than the hot that comes from hot sauce, it hits different. Technically, “jerk” is about how meats are seasoned, smoked and grilled. The process and the flavors are a true nod to the culture. You can find this flavor all over the globe from the Boogie Down Bronx to Toronto to London.
Jerk is the legacy that is a result of African and Taino cultures in Jamaica coming together. Historians report that the Maroons, a community of Africans who freed themselves from slavery, kept their mountain locations a secret by not cooking with an open flame. Today, the jerk spice itself is a mysterious blend and can include more than a dozen spices.
So What’s Up With The Jerk Spice Chickpeas?
It’s no secret that I’m a big fan of chickpeas. There are a few recipes on the Black Girls Eat website that feature this lovely legume. Packed with protein and fiber, I can’t lose with a bowl of roasted chickpeas on the table. I usually make them with olive oil, salt, pepper and garlic. I found a package of jerk spice rub and got curious.
When I was a carnivore, I loved jerk spice. My kitchen is all about the remix so when I also saw that I had a bottle of scotch bonnet infused olive oil, it was on! Thanks to Dr. Corrie Amos of The Spice Theory for bringing her authentic Jamaican flavors to market. I may not be smoking meats anymore but these jerk spice chickpeas are a welcome addition to my family menu.
Make Your Own Jerk Spice Mix
If you don’t have a ready made mix, try making your own spicy mix with items that may already be in your pantry or cabinet.
- Allspice
- Thyme
- Black Pepper
- Cinammon
- Nutmeg
- Cloves
- Brown Sugar
- Salt
- Cayenne Powder
- Cumin
- Onion Powder
- Ginger Powder
Grab 1/2 teaspoon of each seasoning and mix them in a small bowl. Add more or less and make it your won. Store your mix in a jar in the fridge for a spicy moment whenever you feel like it.
LA is a plant-based advocate who is having fun sharing recipes and ideas for remixing our plates. Thanks for being here. Feel free to share and let us know if you try any of the recipes!
Here are some ways to connect with LA:
- Follow on Instagram @blackgirlseat
- Subscribe to the newsletter, Recipes & Random-Ish
- Shop with LA at the Black Girls Eat Shop on Amazon
- Take the easy five day email class, Introduction to Plant-Based Nutrition
- Subscribe to the YouTube Channel (Coming Soon) https://www.youtube.com/@blackgirlseat
- Sign up below for updates and announcements
Roasted Jerk Spice Chickpeas
Ingredients
- 1 can (15ounces) Chickpeas
- 1 Tbs Jerk Spice (premade or create your own)
- 1/2 Tsp Sea Salt
- 1 Tbs Scotch Bonnet Infused Olive Oil or Traditional
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400 degrees. Place cookie sheet in the oven and let it get hot. (3-5 minutes)
- Drain the chickpeas and add them to a bowl with the spices, oil and salt. Toss to ensure that the chickpeas are well coated in the mixture.
- Carefully add the chickpeas to your hot pan. Spread them out. Please be careful. Use the correct utensils, wear oven mittens or other protective clothing. Cook for 20 minutes.
- Enjoy your jerk spice chickpeas solo, in soup or on a plate of grains and veggies.