A taste of Jamaica

Jamaican chef 'king of jerk', Nigel Spence. Contributed

Jamaican Chef, and Food Network's Throwdown with Bobby Flay two-time champion, Nigel Spence, recently hosted a cooking demonstration and tasting at Whole Foods Market Bowery Culinary Center in New York City. The King of Jerk, as declared by internationally renowned chef Bobby Flay, shared juicy secrets of preparing savoury Jamaican dishes to a room packed with cooking enthusiasts and critics.

The session, titled 'Jerk and Rum: A Taste of Jamaica', was an adventurous and interactive class revealing simple techniques on creating delectable cultural dishes.

Spence guided participants on a gastronomic adventure enriched with exotic spices and flavourful meals. Guests enjoyed dishes from 96 Degrees in the Shade- a tantalising menu designed by Spence. It consisted of Jamaican jerk red snapper with Chadon-Beni sauce, Jamaican rice and peas, codfish fritters, and Island Rum pudding - flavours which left an enticing taste of the exotic island. Guests were also able to learn about Jamaica as a perfect island getaway and received stuffed goodie-bags, recipes, and information on how to plan their next trip or simply prepare a meal inspired by it.

Spence's culinary passion and remarkable journey - from managing a little 'jerk shack' in the Bronx to becoming executive chef and owner of the critically acclaimed suburban New York Ripe Kitchen & Bar in Mount Vernon, has propelled him to become one of the foremost ambassadors of Jamaican cuisine; sharing the savoury delights that make Jamaican gastronomy an authentic and unforgettable experience.