Grilled Jerk Steak & Shrimp – Perfect for BBQ Nights!

Name: Grilled Jerk Steak & Shrimp – Perfect for BBQ Nights!
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Caribbean
Ingredients: 3 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 2 tablespoons lime juice; 1 tablespoon brown sugar; 3 cloves garlic, minced; ¼ cup green onions, chopped; 1 teaspoon fresh thyme; 1 Scotch bonnet pepper, minced (adjust for spice level); 1 teaspoon ground allspice; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; ½ teaspoon black pepper; 1 teaspoon salt; ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon; ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg; 1 lb sirloin or ribeye steak; ½ lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 2 tablespoons butter (for basting); 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Everyday Culinary Delights👩‍🍳

Posted on January 30, 2025

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If you’re looking for a dish that delivers bold, smoky, and spicy flavors, then Grilled Jerk Steak & Shrimp is a must-try. Inspired by Jamaican jerk cooking, this dish features succulent steak and shrimp marinated in a flavorful blend of spices, herbs, and citrus, then grilled to perfection.

This meal is perfect for BBQ nights, summer gatherings, or anytime you’re craving an explosion of flavor. The heat from the jerk marinade, combined with the charred smokiness from the grill, creates a mouthwatering contrast of textures and flavors. Whether served with coconut rice, grilled pineapple, or a fresh mango salsa, this dish brings the taste of the Caribbean straight to your plate.

In this guide, we’ll explore the history of jerk seasoning, the best ways to serve this dish, expert grilling tips, and frequently asked questions to help you master this flavorful recipe.

The History and Influence of Jerk Cooking

Jerk seasoning has deep roots in Jamaican culture, tracing back to the Maroons, descendants of enslaved Africans who escaped and settled in the mountains of Jamaica. They developed a method of preserving and cooking meat using a blend of aromatic spices, hot peppers, and slow-cooking techniques over pimento wood.

The key ingredient in jerk seasoning is allspice (also known as pimento), which gives the dish its warm, slightly sweet, and smoky flavor. Combined with Scotch bonnet peppers, thyme, garlic, and cinnamon, jerk seasoning has become one of the most iconic spice blends in the world.

Traditionally, jerk was used for chicken and pork, but today, it is widely adapted to seafood, beef, and even vegetables, making it one of the most versatile and flavorful marinades in global cuisine.

Ingredients

For the Jerk Marinade:

Olive oil – 3 tablespoons (adds moisture and enhances flavor)
Soy sauce – 2 tablespoons (adds depth and umami)
Lime juice – 2 tablespoons (for a citrusy tang)
Brown sugar – 1 tablespoon (balances heat with a touch of sweetness)
Garlic (minced) – 3 cloves (adds aromatic richness)
Green onions (chopped) – ¼ cup (for a mild onion flavor)
Fresh thyme – 1 teaspoon (a key herb in jerk seasoning)
Scotch bonnet pepper (minced) – 1 (adjust for spice level)
Ground allspice – 1 teaspoon (a warm, slightly sweet spice)
Smoked paprika – 1 teaspoon (adds a smoky depth)
Black pepper – ½ teaspoon (for mild heat)
Salt – 1 teaspoon (enhances overall flavor)
Ground cinnamon – ¼ teaspoon (adds warmth and complexity)
Ground nutmeg – ¼ teaspoon (enhances the richness of the marinade)

For the Steak & Shrimp:

Sirloin or ribeye steak – 1 lb (rich and juicy cuts work best)
Large shrimp (peeled & deveined) – ½ lb (soaks up the marinade beautifully)
Butter (for basting) – 2 tablespoons (adds extra richness)
Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish) – 2 tablespoons (adds a fresh, herby finish)

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Jerk Marinade

In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, soy sauce, lime juice, and brown sugar.
Stir in garlic, green onions, thyme, Scotch bonnet pepper, and all spices.
Mix well until combined.

Step 2: Marinate the Steak & Shrimp

Place the steak in a dish and coat with half of the jerk marinade.
Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 24 hours for deeper flavor).
In a separate bowl, toss the shrimp with the remaining marinade and let sit for 15 minutes.

Step 3: Cook the Jerk Steak

Heat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the steak and cook for 4-5 minutes per side (adjust for doneness preference).
In the last minute, add butter and baste the steak.
Remove from heat and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.

Step 4: Cook the Jerk Shrimp

In the same pan, melt a little butter and cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side until opaque and slightly charred.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy

Arrange the sliced steak and shrimp on a plate.
Garnish with fresh parsley and extra lime wedges.
Serve with coconut rice, grilled vegetables, or fresh mango salsa.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Calories – 480 kcal
Protein – 50g
Carbohydrates – 8g
Fat – 26g
Fiber – 2g

Why This Jerk Steak & Shrimp Recipe Stands Out

1. A Perfect Blend of Heat, Sweetness, and Smokiness

Jerk seasoning is unique because it balances spicy, smoky, sweet, and tangy flavors all at once. The heat from Scotch bonnet peppers, the sweetness from brown sugar, the earthiness from allspice, and the zestiness from lime juice create a complex and irresistible taste.

2. Versatile and Customizable

This dish can be adjusted to suit different heat levels and flavor preferences:

Prefer milder spice? Use jalapeños instead of Scotch bonnet peppers.
Want it extra smoky? Grill over charcoal or wood chips.
Love a touch of sweetness? Pair with grilled pineapple or mango salsa.

3. Quick and Easy to Prepare

While the marinade enhances the depth of flavor, the actual cooking process is fast. Shrimp takes just a few minutes to cook, while steak grills in under 10 minutes, making this an ideal dish for weeknight dinners or last-minute BBQs.

4. Perfect for BBQ Nights and Outdoor Gatherings

The charred, smoky aroma of grilled steak and shrimp is irresistible. Whether you’re hosting a backyard cookout or a casual dinner, this dish is guaranteed to impress.

Best Ways to Serve Grilled Jerk Steak & Shrimp

1. With Coconut Rice

The rich, creamy sweetness of coconut rice balances the bold, spicy heat of the jerk marinade. The flavors complement each other beautifully, making this one of the most popular pairings for jerk dishes.

2. With Grilled Pineapple

Grilled pineapple adds a natural caramelized sweetness that enhances the smoky spice of the steak and shrimp. The contrast of heat and sweetness creates an unforgettable tropical flavor profile.

3. With Mango Salsa

A fresh mango salsa made with diced mango, red onion, lime juice, and cilantro provides a refreshing contrast to the jerk seasoning. The natural fruitiness of mango pairs perfectly with the spicy, smoky steak and shrimp.

4. As Tacos or Wraps

Slice the jerk steak and shrimp, then stuff them into warm tortillas with coleslaw, avocado, and a drizzle of jerk sauce for a fun, flavor-packed taco experience.

5. Over a Crisp Salad

For a low-carb option, serve the jerk steak and shrimp over mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, avocado, and a citrus vinaigrette for a refreshing and light meal.

Expert Tips for the Best Jerk Steak & Shrimp

1. Marinate for Maximum Flavor

While you can marinate for as little as 30 minutes, for the deepest flavor, let the steak marinate overnight. However, shrimp should not be marinated for more than 15-20 minutes since the citrus can break down the texture.

2. Use Fresh Ingredients

For authentic Caribbean flavor, use fresh thyme, garlic, and Scotch bonnet peppers instead of dried or powdered versions. The fresh herbs and peppers provide a bolder taste.

3. Adjust the Spice Level to Your Taste

If you prefer a milder spice, use half a Scotch bonnet or replace it with jalapeños. For extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or an extra Scotch bonnet pepper.

4. Grill Over Medium-High Heat

For the best charred crust and smoky flavor, grill the steak and shrimp over medium-high heat (about 400°F/200°C). This ensures a nice crust without overcooking the inside.

5. Let the Steak Rest Before Slicing

After grilling, let the steak rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a tender and juicy bite.

6. Baste with Butter for Extra Richness

During the last minute of grilling, baste the steak with butter infused with garlic and thyme for an added layer of richness and depth.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I Cook This Indoors Instead of Grilling?

Yes! You can cook the steak in a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat, searing each side for 4-5 minutes. Shrimp can be pan-seared in butter for 2-3 minutes per side.

2. Can I Use Store-Bought Jerk Seasoning?

Yes, but homemade jerk seasoning offers a fresher, more balanced flavor. If using store-bought, add a squeeze of lime juice and fresh thyme to enhance it.

3. What’s the Best Steak Cut for This Recipe?

Sirloin, ribeye, or New York strip are excellent choices because they have enough marbling to stay juicy while grilling.

4. Can I Make This Recipe Less Spicy?

Absolutely! Reduce the amount of Scotch bonnet peppers or substitute with milder chili peppers like jalapeños or Anaheim peppers.

5. Can I Use Frozen Shrimp?

Yes, just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before marinating to ensure they absorb flavor properly.

Conclusion: Why You Should Try This Jerk Steak & Shrimp Recipe

Grilled Jerk Steak & Shrimp is a bold, flavorful, and versatile dish that brings the authentic taste of the Caribbean to your table. With its spicy, smoky, and slightly sweet marinade, this dish is perfect for BBQ nights, outdoor gatherings, or even a casual weeknight meal.

By following the right marinating techniques, grilling methods, and pairing it with the perfect sides, you can recreate a restaurant-quality dish in your own kitchen. Whether you serve it with coconut rice, fresh mango salsa, or grilled pineapple, this recipe will transport your taste buds to the heart of the Caribbean.

Now, it’s time to fire up the grill and enjoy this irresistible Jerk Steak & Shrimp dish!