The sun is out, so Wray & Nephew and Sweet Dee’s Jerk (formerly known as Juici Jerk) are here to show you how to host THE perfect Jamaican-inspired BBQ this summer.
Many consumers will be planning al fresco gatherings, so we have pulled a list of top tips on how to make your ‘yard’ the hot spot of the season, along with commentary from Founder of Sweet Dee’s Jerk, Troy Johnson.
- Seasoning is good for the soul: The most important rule of any BBQ is to season your meat. If meat is unseasoned, it can quickly turn the food from the headliner of the BBQ to a side. A wet jerk marinade paired with the smokiness from the grill will be sure to be a fan favourite. Whether you’re using chicken, lamb, beef, tofu or any other protein, ensure that you give it plenty of time to marinade and rest in the fridge (ideally overnight) so that the flavours are infused before grilling!
- Don’t forget the sides: A plate is not complete without sides and while the aunties will debate about whose potato salad, coleslaw, or mac & cheese is superior, it’s on you to decide who will bring what. Involving everyone in the BBQ will make the spread feel more personable, so get people involved and see who can really brag about their cooking
- Bring out the rum punch: A BBQ isn’t a BBQ without cocktails, and Wray & Nephew’s Rum Punch is designed for sharing with family and friends. Bring out the punch bowl, pop in pieces of pineapple, mango and lime, and enjoy the tropical hints of pineapple and pomegranate juice mixed with Wray’s fiery yet flavoursome tones. Remember, a likkle goes a long way. Everyone has their own perfected Rum Punch recipe and their own twist on the drink – I recommend adding in some banana slices for that extra-Caribbean taste!
- Get the tunes flowing: Whether you’ve curated a playlist, have a DJ set up, or are on the decks yourself, it’s essential to soak in the vibes listening to good tunes. Caribbean artists such as Buju Banton, and the Reggae legend himself Bob Marley, are a must in the good weather. Charge up that speaker and get the tracks rolling to fully transport you back to the island of Jamaica.
- Sim(mer) Simma: People rarely show up to a BBQ on time, but that doesn’t mean the grill should wait for them. If you know cousin Ricky will be the last to arrive by at least two hours, start grilling the meat an hour before he shows up. That way, the food will be fresh and everyone can dig in family style.
Wray’s Rum Punch Recipe
Ingredients (serves 4):
- 100ml Wray & Nephew
- 400ml Pineapple Juice
- 100ml Pomegranate Juice
- Squeeze of fresh lime
Recipe:
- Fill a punch bowl with cubed ice
- Add 100ml Wray & Nephew to bowl
- Add all other liquids
- Stir and garnish with fresh fruits
Troy Johnson, Co-Founder & Director of Sweet Dee’s Jerk (SDJ): “At Sweet Dee’s Jerk, we believe that Caribbean food is a celebration of life, family and culture. Being raised in a traditional Jamaican household, summer BBQ season was always the best – bringing everyone together to enjoy feel-good food and energy. Using home recipes to give an authentic taste of Jamaican Jerk, and creating our very own homemade Jerk BBQ sauce, perfectly finishes the seasoning of many different types of meats. But it’s not just about amazing comfort food; music and rum are a must-have for any Jamaican BBQ. With tunes and cocktails flowing, you can guarantee all your family and friends have a good time.”
