Expert: Whitestag - 6/5/2004

Question
Do you know of any internet sources (or sources in the NYC
area) for Pimento (allspice) wood for barbecung authentic Jerk
Chicken?

Thank you in advance

Answer
I did a little searching around in Google and found a couple of different possiblilities.  One web site with a recipe for jerk chicken included the following note:

"The unique flavor of Jerk comes in great part from cooking over moist pimento wood, which is not available in the US. To create that wonderful flavor without the pimento wood, soak 1/8 cup of whole allspice berries in water for about 30 minutes, then sprinkle them over the coals of the grill and cover to allow the smoke to permeate the meat, fish or seafood."

On the other hand, I found web site specializing in Jamaican products that does indeed sell pimento leaves and sticks for amoking, albeit at a pretty high price:

  http://www.ja-direct.com/seasonings.html

Go about 3/4 down the page.

Hope this helps.  But I think the real key to good jerk is the seasoning, and there are numerous recipes out there for jerk seasonsing, as well as several prepared mixes.

-- Whitestag