Jamaican curry powder is a beloved spice blend that is used in many popular Jamaican dishes. It gives an earthy and spicy richness to curried goat, acts as a seasoning for both the filling and the dough of Jamaican beef patties, and provides a great flavor for marinating meats. While this spice mix has become a staple in Jamaican cuisine, Jamaican curry powder actually draws its inspiration from another nation.

Curry powder first came about as the British looked to export the flavors of India they enjoyed after colonizing the country in the late 1700s. As workers from India arrived in Jamaica as indentured servants, Jamaicans were introduced to their traditional dishes, including masalas and the many spices that were used to create them. Over time, the spice mixes of India blended with that of Jamaica, and curry powder evolved into the spice mix we know and love today.

Jamaican curry powder has an earthy quality from the inclusion of turmeric, which provides it with its yellow-orange color, and a tangy bite from the addition of fenugreek. It also has nutty and citrusy notes from coriander and cumin. But perhaps the biggest thing that makes Jamaican curry powder stand out from other curry powders is the use of allspice, which is known for its multidimensional flavor and adds its own, herbaceous and warm twist to the mix.

Like many other spice blends, the recipe can vary. Some versions of it contain mustard seeds and spices like nutmeg and ginger; others include star anise, which may be a nod to the Chinese indentured laborers who came to the island. There are even versions made with cayenne peppers, which are perfect for those who are looking to add a bit more heat to their dishes.

It is a versatile spice blend that can be used in many dishes. Here are some popular Jamaican dishes that use Jamaican curry powder.

Curried goat: A traditional Jamaican dish that is made with goat meat, potatoes, and carrots. The meat is marinated in a mixture of Jamaican curry powder, garlic, ginger, thyme, and other spices before being cooked until tender.

Jamaican beef patties: A popular street food in Jamaica that consists of a flaky pastry filled with spiced ground beef. The beef is seasoned with Jamaican curry powder, thyme, and other spices.

Jamaican-style chicken curry: A flavorful chicken curry that is made with Jamaican curry powder, coconut milk, and other spices. It’s usually served with rice and peas.
Curried shrimp: A quick and easy dish that is made with shrimp, onions, garlic, and Jamaican curry powder. It’s usually served with rice or bread. These are just a few examples of the many dishes that use Jamaican curry powder.

In comparison to Indian curry powder, Jamaican curry powder has a larger amount of turmeric. You’ll also see cumin and coriander. Fenugreek is another featured spice in both types of curry powder. The greatest difference between the two spice mixes comes into play when examining heat levels. Indian curry powders tend to have more chile powder in them while Jamaican curry powder is milder in that way. Jamaican cooks usually prefer to use fresh Scotch bonnet peppers to bring heat to their dishes.