Jamaican Jerk Shrimp in Foil
Jamaican Jerk Shrimp in Foil is a quick and flavorful Caribbean-inspired seafood dish.Juicy shrimp are coated in bold jerk seasoning, garlic, lime, and herbs.Butter creates a rich sauce while the foil locks in moisture.Scotch bonnet pepper adds an optional fiery Jamaican-style kick.The packets can be baked or cooked on the grill with minimal cleanup.Serve with rice, plantains, vegetables, or crusty bread for a complete meal.
Ingredients
For the Shrimp
- 1½ pounds (680 g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons Jamaican jerk seasoning
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
- 1 teaspoon lime zest
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
- 2 scallions, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon honey or brown sugar
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon salt, or to taste
For Serving
- Fresh lime wedges
- Chopped scallions
- Fresh thyme
- Fresh cilantro or parsley
- Cooked Jamaican Rice and Peas
- Grilled vegetables
Instructions
Prepare the Shrimp
- If using frozen shrimp, thaw them completely.Peel and devein the shrimp if necessary.Pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
Make the Jerk Butter Mixture
- In a bowl, combine the melted butter, olive oil, jerk seasoning, minced garlic, lime juice, lime zest, thyme, scallions, honey or brown sugar, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt.Add the optional Scotch bonnet pepper.Mix thoroughly.
Coat the Shrimp
- Add the shrimp to the bowl.Toss gently until every shrimp is evenly coated with the jerk mixture.
Marinate
- Allow the shrimp to marinate for approximately 15–30 minutes in the refrigerator.Because shrimp are delicate, avoid leaving them in a highly acidic marinade for an extended period.
Prepare the Foil
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).Tear four large sheets of heavy-duty aluminum foil.Place the sheets on a clean work surface.
Add the Shrimp
- Divide the seasoned shrimp evenly between the foil sheets.Place them on top of the vegetables.
Add Extra Jerk Butter
- Drizzle any remaining seasoning mixture over the shrimp.This will create flavorful juices inside the packet.
Bake
- Place the packets on a baking tray.Bake for approximately 10–15 minutes, depending on the size of the shrimp.
Carefully Open the Foil
- Remove the packets from the oven.Allow them to sit for approximately 1–2 minutes.Carefully open the foil away from your face because hot steam will escape.
Add Fresh Flavor
- Squeeze fresh lime juice over the shrimp.Garnish with chopped scallions and fresh thyme or cilantro.
Serve
- Serve the shrimp immediately with your favorite Caribbean side dishes.
Notes
- Shrimp size: Large or jumbo shrimp are ideal because they remain juicy during cooking.
- Fresh shrimp: Fresh or properly thawed frozen shrimp can be used.
- Jerk seasoning: Adjust the amount based on the salt and heat level of your seasoning blend.
- Scotch bonnet: This pepper is optional but provides authentic Jamaican-style heat.
- Butter: Butter creates flavorful juices inside the foil packet.
- Vegetables: Vegetables can be added to make the meal more substantial.
- Cooking: Shrimp cook quickly, so watch them carefully.
- Steam: Open the packets carefully because they contain very hot steam.