Caribbean Jerk Shrimp Skewers

Name: Caribbean Jerk Shrimp Skewers
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves; 1 teaspoon allspice; 1 teaspoon cinnamon; 2 tablespoons brown sugar; 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 1 tablespoon lime juice; 1 teaspoon ginger, minced; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper; Salt and black pepper to taste; 1 ½ pounds large shrimp, peeled and deveined; Wooden or metal skewers

Highlighted under: Easy Global Meals

I absolutely love grilling Caribbean Jerk Shrimp Skewers because they perfectly capture the vibrant flavors of the Caribbean. The combination of spices in the jerk seasoning dances on your palate, creating a tantalizing taste experience. Plus, the shrimp cooks quickly, making this a perfect dish for a lively get-together. I often serve these skewers with a cooling mango salsa or a fresh green salad, which enhances the dish beautifully. You’ll find that the vibrant colors and bold flavors bring everyone together around the grill.

Created by

Ella

Last updated on 2026-01-05T21:25:28.146Z

When I first tasted Caribbean Jerk Shrimp Skewers during a vacation in Jamaica, I was blown away by the balance of spice and richness. The marinade not only infuses the shrimp with flavor, but also helps to tenderize it, making each bite succulent. I’ve perfected my own marinade by combining fresh herbs, spices, and a touch of citrus that elevates the dish even further.

Cooking the shrimp on skewers allows for even grilling, and I recommend soaking them in water before using to prevent burning. This small detail ensures that you have perfectly charred, flavorful skewers without any risk of the shrimp overcooking. Trust me, your guests will be begging for the recipe!

        Why You'll Love These Skewers
        Authentic Caribbean flavors that transport you to the islands
Perfectly grilled shrimp infused with a spicy marinade
Easy to prepare and fantastic for outdoor gatherings

      

Understanding Jerk Seasoning

Jerk seasoning is a vibrant blend of spices that originated in Jamaica, designed to highlight the rich flavors of the Caribbean. The combination of fresh thyme, allspice, and cinnamon creates a well-rounded profile that balances sweet and spicy notes. When using these spices in the marinade, they work together to penetrate the shrimp, infusing them with flavor. It's essential to give the marinade enough time to work its magic, so refrigerate the shrimp for at least 20 minutes, or longer if you can, for a deeper taste experience.

In addition to the classic spices, the inclusion of brown sugar in the marinade is crucial for achieving the perfect caramelization on the grill. The sugar helps to create a beautiful glaze, which not only enhances the appearance of your skewers but also contributes to that delightful, slightly charred flavor. If you prefer a spicier kick, consider adjusting the cayenne pepper to suit your taste—just remember that a little goes a long way.

Perfect Grilling Techniques

When it comes to grilling shrimp skewers, preheating the grill is a vital step. Aim for a medium-high heat, around 375 to 400 degrees Fahrenheit, to ensure a nice sear on the shrimp. To prevent sticking, oil the grill grates lightly before placing the skewers down. This technique not only helps maintain the integrity of the shrimp as they cook but also promotes those beautiful grill marks that are so visually appealing.

Grill the skewers for about 2-3 minutes per side, keeping an eye on them to avoid overcooking. Shrimp are done when they turn opaque and have a firm texture. If you notice them starting to curl tightly, it’s a sign they may be overdone. I recommend using a meat thermometer—it should read 120 degrees Fahrenheit for perfectly cooked shrimp. Once grilled, let the skewers rest for a minute or two to allow the juices to redistribute before serving.

Ingredients

Ingredients:

For the Jerk Marinade

2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves
1 teaspoon allspice
1 teaspoon cinnamon
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon lime juice
1 teaspoon ginger, minced
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Shrimp

1 ½ pounds large shrimp, peeled and deveined
Wooden or metal skewers

Make sure to soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning.

Instructions

Instructions:

Prepare the Marinade

In a bowl, combine thyme, allspice, cinnamon, brown sugar, soy sauce, lime juice, ginger, garlic, cayenne, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to form a marinade.

Marinate the Shrimp

Add the shrimp to the marinade, ensuring they are well-coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes.

Skewer the Shrimp

Preheat your grill. If using wooden skewers, ensure they've soaked in water. Thread the marinated shrimp onto the skewers.

Grill the Skewers

Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until shrimp are opaque and cooked through.

Serve

Remove from the grill and serve immediately with your choice of sides or dipping sauces.

Enjoy these skewers hot off the grill for the best flavor!

Pro Tips

For an added touch, brush the shrimp with a little coconut oil before grilling for extra flavor.

Serving Suggestions

These Caribbean Jerk Shrimp Skewers pair wonderfully with a cooling mango salsa that balances the spice with sweetness. To whip up a quick salsa, combine diced mango, red onion, cilantro, lime juice, and a pinch of salt. This fresh accompaniment adds a pop of color and flavor, elevating your grilling experience. You can also serve them alongside a crisp green salad tossed with a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.

If you're looking to make the meal heartier, consider serving the skewers with coconut rice or grilled vegetables. Coconut rice adds a nutty flavor that complements the jerk seasoning beautifully. Grilled bell peppers, zucchini, or corn on the cob can also be tossed on the grill while the shrimp cooks, providing an array of textures and flavors that round out the meal.

Make-Ahead Tips

One of the best aspects of this recipe is that it can be prepared ahead of time. You can marinate the shrimp in advance, up to 24 hours prior to grilling. Just keep the shrimp stored in an airtight container in the fridge until you're ready to cook. This not only saves time on the day of your gathering but also allows the flavors to deepen, making your skewers even tastier.

If you have leftover skewers, they can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two days. Just ensure they’re in an airtight container to retain their flavor. To reheat, gently warm them on a grill or in the oven at a low temperature to avoid overcooking. Enjoying these skewers at a later date allows you to savor the delightful flavors of the Caribbean, even after the party is over.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken instead of shrimp?

Absolutely! Just make sure to adjust the cooking time, as chicken will take longer to grill.

→ How spicy are these skewers?

The heat level can be adjusted by modifying the amount of cayenne pepper in the marinade.

→ Can I prepare the marinade in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the marinade a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator.

→ What sides pair well with jerk shrimp skewers?

Rice and peas, grilled vegetables, or a fresh mango salsa complement it perfectly.