Jamaican Curry Powder Recipe (2024)

It's curry time in the Chili Pepper Madness kitchen, my friends! Only we're making something different from what you might be used to. Tonight we're making Jamaican Curry Powder, and I think you're going to love it.

Authentic Jamaican curry powder is different from Indian curry powder, using different local ingredients to create a spice blend unlike any other. This recipe is a flavorful blend of lightly toasted seeds, warming seasonings and chili powder that you can use to flavor many different dishes.

It is hugely versatile. Of course you can make yourself an excellent curry, but consider it as a general seasoning for vegetables and grilled meats and anything else you'd care to spice up.

There are different ways to make a Caribbean curry powder, with different ratios and other optional ingredients you can include to make it your own. Below is my preferred recipe. I love to include a fiery Scotch Bonnet powder, made from dehydrated Scotch Bonnet peppers.

I love to grow them then dry and grind them into fresh powder for making all sorts of wonderful recipes. If you can't find Scotch bonnet powder, you can use other chili powders.

I hope you enjoy it!

Let's talk about how we make Jamaican Curry Powder, shall we?

Jamaican Curry Powder Ingredients

• Turmeric.
• Coriander Seeds.
• Yellow Mustard Seeds.
• Fenugreek Seeds.
• Allspice Berries. Or use 1 tablespoon ground allspice.
• Cumin Seeds. Or use 2-1/2 teaspoons ground cumin.
• Ground Ginger.
• Black Peppercorns. Or use 1-1/2 teaspoons ground black pepper.
• Scotch Bonnet Powder. Optional, for heat, or use cayenne or other spicy chili powder.

Optional Extras

• Star Anise Seeds.
• Clove. Or use ¼ teaspoon ground.
• Nutmeg.
• Salt. Listed as optional, as you can always add in salt when making your recipes.

How to Make Jamaican Curry Powder - the Recipe Method

Toast the Seeds/Grains. If you are using seeds/grains, lightly toast the spices in a skillet or dry pan on medium heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring a bit, until they become nicely fragrant. Do not let them burn or you will get a bitter flavor.

Store the Curry Powder. Store in an airtight container in a cool, dark place for 3 months. Will last longer, but will begin to lose potency.

Boom! Done! Your Jamaican curry powder mix is ready to use. Time to make some quick curries! This is such a great seasoning on hand for whipping together quick and easy meals with big flavor.

Recipe Tips & Notes

• Heat Factor. You'll get some very nice heat from your Jamaican curry powder if you include Scotch Bonnet powder, which rivals habanero peppers in their overall heat. Use cayenne for more manageable heat, or stick with paprika or other mild chili powder for a low to no heat version.
• Other Ingredients. You can easily include other seasonings to customize your own Jamaican curry powder. Popular additions include cinnamon, thyme, garlic powder, onion powder, white pepper and others. Feel free to mix it up as desired!

Cookbook Recommendation

If you'd like to learn more about Jamaican cooking, check out the following books, which I have found to be educational and informative:

• Authentic Recipes from Jamaica, by John DeMers (affiliate link, my friends!)
• Jamaican Cookbook - Traditional Jamaican Recipes Made Easy (affiliate link, my friends!) - No photos, but easy to follow with some good recipes.

Try Some of My Other Popular Recipes

• Jamaican Curry Chicken
• Red Curry
• Coconut Curry Chicken
• Phaal Curry (the Hottest Curry in the World)
• Indian Curry Powder
• Vindaloo Curry Powder
• Red Curry Paste
• Yellow Curry Paste
• See all of my Curry Recipes

Storage & Leftovers

Storing yourJamaican Curry Powderin a cool, dark place may allow you to store it for up to 6 months to a year.

Other Recipes You Might Enjoy

• Jamaican Jerk Seasoning
• Jerk Marinade
• Jamaican Jerk Chicken
• Sazon Seasoning
• Jamaican Scotch Bonnet Pepper Sauce
• Jamaican Rice and Peas