Jamaican Jerk Pork Skewers with Mango Salsa Recipe

If you are craving a dish that bursts with vibrant Caribbean flavors and pairs perfectly with a fresh, fruity twist, then you are going to fall in love with these Jamaican Jerk Pork Skewers with Mango Salsa. Juicy, tender pork cubes marinated in a bold jerk seasoning, grilled to smoky perfection, and topped with a zesty mango salsa create a feast for both the eyes and the palate. This recipe brings together the irresistible heat and spice of Jamaica with the sweet, refreshing brightness of mango that will brighten up any meal or gathering. Trust me, once you try these skewers, they will become your go-to recipe for a flavorful, fun, and impressive dish.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting the ingredients right is the first step to nailing the perfect balance of spicy, sweet, and savory in Jamaican Jerk Pork Skewers with Mango Salsa. Each simple ingredient is what makes this dish so deliciously memorable—fresh and bold flavors that come together effortlessly.

• Pork tenderloin (1 lb): Choose lean, tender pork for juicy, flavorful skewers that cook evenly.
• Olive oil (2 tablespoons): Helps the seasoning stick and keeps the pork moist during grilling.
• Jamaican jerk seasoning (2 tablespoons): A bold mix of spices that gives the pork its iconic island flavor.
• Garlic powder (1 teaspoon): Adds depth and a gentle punch of garlic without overpowering the jerk spices.
• Salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning and balancing the flavors.
• Wooden or metal skewers: Soak wooden skewers to prevent burning or use sturdy metal ones for ease.
• Mango (1 cup, diced): Bright and sweet, perfectly offsetting the heat from the jerk seasoning.
• Red bell pepper (1/4 cup, diced): Adds crunch and a pop of color to the salsa.
• Red onion (1/4 cup, finely chopped): Brings a mild sharpness that balances the sweetness of the mango.
• Jalapeño (1 small, minced, optional): For those who want an extra kick in their salsa.
• Fresh cilantro (2 tablespoons, chopped): Adds a burst of herbal freshness and aroma.
• Lime juice (juice of 1 lime): Provides acidity to brighten the salsa and cut through the richness of the pork.
• Salt (to taste): To season the mango salsa perfectly.

How to Make Jamaican Jerk Pork Skewers with Mango Salsa

Step 1: Marinate the Pork

Start by combining the olive oil, Jamaican jerk seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper in a large bowl. Toss in the cubed pork tenderloin, making sure every piece is generously coated with the marinade. Let the pork soak up those vibrant spices for at least 30 minutes, or for even more flavor, pop it in the fridge for up to 2 hours. This marinating step is key to infusing the pork with that unmistakable jerk taste that makes this dish unforgettable.

Step 2: Prepare the Mango Salsa

While the pork is resting, whip up the mango salsa to get a fresh contrast on the side. In a separate bowl, combine the diced mango, red bell pepper, finely chopped red onion, and minced jalapeño if you like some heat. Stir in the chopped cilantro, lime juice, and a pinch of salt. This salsa is the perfect tropical companion to the spicy skewers, adding a juicy burst of sweetness and crunch with every bite.

Step 3: Assemble the Skewers

Once your pork has had time to marinate, it’s time to thread those flavorful cubes onto your pre-soaked wooden skewers or metal ones. Make sure to pack the meat snugly but not too tight, so the pork cooks evenly and gets that delicious char on your grill.

Step 4: Grill the Skewers

Heat your grill or grill pan to medium-high—this is where the magic happens. Place the pork skewers on the grill and cook for about 3 to 4 minutes on each side. You want the outside to get nicely charred while the inside stays juicy and tender. Keep an eye on them so they don’t dry out and turn the skewers halfway through to ensure even cooking.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Once perfectly grilled, transfer your Jamaican Jerk Pork Skewers to a serving platter and top generously with the vibrant mango salsa you’ve prepared. The combination of spicy, smoky pork with the fresh, zesty salsa will have everyone reaching for seconds.

How to Serve Jamaican Jerk Pork Skewers with Mango Salsa

Garnishes

Garnishing is your chance to amp up the dish’s appeal and add layers of flavor. Fresh cilantro sprigs, lime wedges for an extra tangy touch, or even thin slices of jalapeño can make your plate pop and bring additional freshness to the skewers. These simple touches make your presentation lively and inviting.

Side Dishes

The best side dishes complement the bold and tropical notes of the Jamaican Jerk Pork Skewers with Mango Salsa. Think fluffy coconut rice, grilled pineapple slices, or a crisp green salad with citrus vinaigrette. Each side brings something special that rounds out the meal perfectly whether you’re serving a weeknight dinner or a festive gathering.

Creative Ways to Present

Want to impress your guests? Serve the skewers over a bed of mixed greens or with some warm flatbreads for DIY tacos. You can even create a beautiful platter with additional fresh fruit chunks like pineapple and lime wedges scattered around for a colorful, tropical vibe that’s as delightful to look at as it is to eat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The pork skewers will stay tasty for up to 3 days, giving you a quick and flavorful meal option that reheats beautifully without losing much of that delicious jerk kick or the juicy texture.

Freezing

You can freeze the cooked pork skewers by placing them in a freezer-safe container or bag, separating layers with parchment paper. Freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge to maintain quality and moisture.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm the skewers in a skillet over medium heat or pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Avoid microwaving if you can; slow reheating preserves the texture and flavor better. Add a fresh scoop of that mango salsa after reheating for the ultimate finish.

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of pork for these skewers?

Absolutely! While pork tenderloin is lean and tender, you can also use pork shoulder or loin cubes. Just keep in mind that fattier cuts may cook differently and offer a richer flavor.

Is it possible to make the mango salsa ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the salsa a few hours in advance. Just mix all the ingredients, cover, and refrigerate. The flavors will meld beautifully, but add the lime juice right before serving to keep it fresh.

Can I grill these skewers indoors?

Definitely! A grill pan works wonderfully indoors and will give you those nice sear marks and smoky flavor. Just preheat the pan well and watch the cooking time closely.

How spicy are the Jamaican Jerk Pork Skewers?

The heat level depends largely on your jerk seasoning choice and whether you include jalapeño in the salsa. You can adjust the spice to your preference by choosing mild or hot jerk seasoning and adding or omitting the jalapeño.

What can I substitute if I don’t have Jamaican jerk seasoning?

If jerk seasoning is not available, you can create a simple blend of allspice, thyme, cinnamon, nutmeg, chili powder, garlic powder, and a touch of cayenne pepper to mimic the flavors.

Final Thoughts

Making Jamaican Jerk Pork Skewers with Mango Salsa is like capturing a little piece of the Caribbean in your own kitchen. The harmony of spicy pork and sweet mango salsa will brighten up any meal, impress your friends, and satisfy your crave for something fresh and exciting. So grab those skewers and fire up your grill—this recipe is waiting to become your new favorite!