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Jerk Fish – for Jamaican week

Savory Jerk Fish Recipe for a Vibrant Jamaican Feast

Experience the vibrant flavors of Jerk Fish, a quick and delicious Caribbean dish perfect for dinner.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 6 minutes
Resting Time 2 minutes
Total Time 18 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Jamaican
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

For the Jerk Seasoning
  • 1 tablespoon Garlic Powder Adds pungency and depth to the spice blend; substitute with onion powder if needed.
  • 1 tablespoon Onion Powder Enhances flavor complexity; can be used in place of garlic powder.
  • 1 tablespoon Cooking Salt/Kosher Salt Essential for flavoring; reduce amount if using table salt.
  • 1 teaspoon Dried Thyme A signature herb in jerk seasoning; oregano works as a substitute.
  • 1 tablespoon Brown Sugar Balances the spice with a touch of sweetness; caster sugar can be used instead.
  • 1 teaspoon Cayenne Pepper Provides a spicy kick; adjust to taste or use red pepper flakes for milder heat.
  • 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika Adds a rich smokiness; regular paprika can be a good substitute.
  • 1 teaspoon Allspice Powder A key flavor in jerk seasoning; mixed spice blend can replace it if necessary.
  • 1 teaspoon Cinnamon Powder Contributes warmth and sweetness, crucial for the flavor profile.
  • 1 teaspoon Nutmeg Powder Enhances the aromatic quality; you can add more cinnamon for a similar effect.
For the Fish
  • 2 fillets Fish Fillets (Snapper or Any White Fish) Skinless and boneless fillets should be about 1.5 cm thick for best results.
  • 2 tablespoons Extra Virgin Olive Oil Ideal for frying; substitute with vegetable oil if preferred.

Equipment

  • medium bowl
  • Non-stick skillet
  • spatula
  • wire rack

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Jerk Fish
  1. In a medium bowl, combine garlic powder, onion powder, cooking salt, dried thyme, brown sugar, cayenne pepper, smoked paprika, allspice powder, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Mix well to create a vibrant jerk seasoning. Spread this spice blend evenly on a tray, allowing it to become aromatic while you prepare the fish.
  2. Pat the fish fillets dry with paper towels, ensuring they’re moisture-free. Generously coat both sides of each fillet with the prepared jerk seasoning, pressing the spices into the flesh to adhere well. Shake off any excess seasoning to avoid overpowering the natural flavors of the fish.
  3. Heat 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil in a non-stick skillet over high heat until it shimmers and feels hot—approximately 2 minutes. Carefully place the fish fillets into the skillet, cooking only two at a time to prevent overcrowding. Let them sizzle for 2 minutes, until the crust turns a beautiful, deep bronze.
  4. Using a spatula, gently flip each fish fillet over, being careful not to break the crust. Cook for an additional 1 minute until the fish is fully cooked through, with an internal temperature reaching 55°C (130°F). The fillets should appear opaque and flaky when ready to serve.
  5. Once cooked, transfer the fish to a wire rack set over a plate or paper towels. Allow them to rest for 2 minutes—this vital step helps maintain the crispy texture of the jerk fish, as resting prevents moisture buildup that could soften the crust.
  6. After resting, plate the jerk fish and serve immediately with delicious sides like Jamaican Slaw and Coconut Rice.

Nutrition

Serving: 1filletCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 10gProtein: 20gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 1gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Enjoy preparing your fabulous jerk fish, and watch as it becomes a family favorite!

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