You ever met that know it all foodie person who just won't shut up about how much they know about something? Yeah, you know the type. I met this one guy that wouldn't stop talking about his jerk seasoning. He made it sound like he found some super secret recipe and we should all bow down in awe of his talents. He forced me to take a jar and insisted I use it. Bothered me every time I saw him about it. It drove me so crazy I did make jerk chicken for a group dinner. I waited for the day we ran into each other again. Of course, he went right into " So did you make the jerk chicken?" I had waited for this moment and replied: " Why yes I did". His next question "Wasn't my seasoning ...."blah blah blah, it's because... blah,blah.blah for like 10 minutes. At the end of his tireless chatter, I replied: " I wouldn't know I used mine." I know it sounds mean but you really had to meet this guy, you could fill a hot air balloon with all his condescending remarks. I did try his seasoning before making my own. It wasn't bad but not mind blowing either. I'm sure mine isn't the epic jerk seasoning but my people love it so it's a keeper in the Meaux house.

Combine all the spices in a bowl and put into an airtight jar. I'm sure you noticed that Mason jars are my favorite. Cheap and easy on the eyes. I hope nobody describes me that way or wait maybe I do. I turned down the spice in this recipe since people's spice levels are so varied. So play around with the mix to get it to you to the level you want. Jerk seasoning does not have to spicy to be delicious. The great thing about jerk seasoning is you can add and omit spices to your liking.I've found recipes that include dried green onions and I may try that out next time. Although jerk chicken is the most popular I love it on all proteins, pork, and shrimp definitely make a great pairing to jerk seasoning. Every time I make this I can't help but mumble to myself " And this, and that's all I need. The ashtray, the remote control, and the matches for sure. And this, And that's all I need. The ashtray, the remote control, the paddle game, the magazine and the chair." Come on I had to quote "The Jerk"

Recipe:

• 1 1/2 tablespoons onion powder

• 1 1/2 tablespoons garlic powder

• 1 tablespoon ground ginger

• 1 tablespoon dried parsley

• 1 tablespoon dried thyme

• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika

• 1 tablespoon or more cayenne pepper(or any other dried pepper you prefer)

• 1 tablespoon allspice

• 1/2 tablespoon cinnamon

• 1/2 tablespoon nutmeg

• 1/2 tablespoon chicken bouillon powder

• 1 teaspoon white pepper

• 2-3 tablespoons coconut or brown sugar

Combine all the ingredients in a medium bowl and store in an airtight container.