Jamaican Jerk lentils (Authentic recipe)

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If there’s one dish everyone loves its jerk chicken. Jamaica has become well known around the globe for its well seasoned and spiced jerk flavour for good reasons. But, what about those who don’t eat meat?! Don’t worry, this deliciously and simply made, authentic tasting Jamaican Jerk lentils will reminisce of Jerk chicken without the animal cruelty. Continue reading for this ital vegan recipe from my kitchen to yours!

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Jamaican Jerk Seasoning offers a mouthwatering taste that draws in folks from all over the world. It tastes great on pretty much everything you slap it on. We know it is typically served with chicken but, it also has a mean taste on tofu, seitan, mushrooms, and lentils.

Health benefits of Lentils

Did you lentils are extremely biblical and a staple legume in Ethiopian cuisine? Lentils can be found in many cultures all over the world and are a great source of plant based protein. I would consider lentils one of the most versatile legumes. They can be blended and turned into wraps, soy free tofu, and of course boiled and seasoned to your liking. PS, they contain a lot of fibre and may make you a little gassy so soaking for an hour or so may do wonders for digestion.

The preferred lentil type for this dish will be green lentils. Black and red lentils work well too but green lentils have a nice texture that pick up the flavour and seasonings better than others. At least in my opinion. This dish pairs very well with typical rice and peas. Use this link to grab my authentic Jamaican Rice and Peas recipe. It also tastes amazing with coconut curry quinoa or plain rice!

What you’ll need

Green Lentils
Scallion
Tomato
Onion
Garlic
Fresh Thyme
Scotch Bonnet
Wet Jerk Seasoning– This is typically easy to find in most grocery stores, especially Walmart! If you can’t find one in person near you, use this link to get your own jar of wet jerk paste from a brand I love.

Seasonings you’ll need

Dry Jerk Seasoning– Yes, dry and wet jerk seasonings are required. Get your hands on some quality dry Jamaican jerk powder with this link.
Garlic Powder
Onion Powder
Jamaican All Purpose – An absolute must and staple for all Jamaican dishes. Grab your own bottle using this link.

How to make Jamaican Jerk Lentils

1. Wash and chop all of your fresh produce into small pieces minus the scotch bonnet and fresh thyme. Be sure to leave the scotch bonnet whole as it is very spicy.

2. Heat a pot of oil and add the fresh produce when hot enough. Stir until fragrant or for at least 2-3 minutes.

3. Add in the dry seasonings and stir. Once combined, add in the washed lentils and 2 cups of water. Cover the pot and allow to cook for at least 20 minutes.

4. Once the lentils are cooked, add the BBQ sauce, ketchup, and wet jerk paste and the rest of the water. Allow to cook again for another 5-10 minutes.

5. Taste test and serve with your desired starch, and enjoy!

How to store Jamaican Jerk Lentils

This dish can last up to 5 days in the fridge making it great for meal prep! The longer the lentils sit and marinate in the fridge the more intense and depth the flavor. Who knew leftovers could taste this good?

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If you loved this recipe be sure to check out these other veganised versions of Jamaican classics.

Authentic Jamaican Rice and Peas
Curry Chickpeas
Jamaican Pumpkin Rice