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Join professional chef Ben Arthur for an immersive cookery experience inspired by the vibrant flavours, traditions and atmosphere of Jamaican cuisine.
This unique masterclass combines hands-on cooking with live-fire barbecue techniques, introducing participants to the art of jerk seasoning, smoking and grilling while exploring the history and culture behind one of the world’s most recognisable dishes.
From preparing your own jerk marinade to cooking over charcoal and wood, this is a flavour-packed experience designed for food lovers, barbecue enthusiasts and anyone looking to expand their culinary repertoire.
What You’ll Learn
– The origins and history of jerk cooking
– What makes jerk chicken unique
– Traditional jerk ingredients and flavour profiles
– The difference between marinating and brining
– How to prepare an authentic jerk marinade
– Charcoal and wood-fired cooking techniques
– Temperature management and fire control
– The differences between smoking and grilling
– How to prepare simple Caribbean-inspired accompaniments
– Essential food safety and barbecue best practices
Session Overview
Welcome & Introduction
Participants will be welcomed with Caribbean-inspired music, relaxed island vibes and the unmistakable aroma of jerk chicken slowly cooking in the smoker.
The Story of Jerk
Explore:
– The history and origins of jerk cooking
– Why jerk chicken became Jamaica’s most famous dish and what turned it into such a worldwide culinary ‘Ting’
– The key ingredients that define jerk seasoning
– Other foods that can be prepared using jerk techniques
– Alternative cooking methods for jerk dishes
Live BBQ Demonstration & Tasting
Participants will enjoy a tasting of jerk chicken while learning about smoking, grilling and live-fire cooking techniques.
Jerk Marinade Workshop
Learn:
– Food safety essentials
– How to prepare a traditional jerk marinade
– Seasoning techniques
– The differences between marinating and brining
Caribbean Accompaniments
Prepare:
– Rice and Peas
– Caribbean-style Coleslaw
– Fresh Seasonal Salad
Live Fire Cooking Experience
Participants will cook their own jerk chicken while learning:
– Fire management
– Fuel types and flavour development
– Different barbecue and smoker styles
– Slow smoking versus hot grilling
– Assessing when food is perfectly cooked
Presentation & Tasting
Enjoy your jerk chicken alongside your freshly prepared accompaniments while discussing the techniques and flavours explored throughout the session.
Take Home
Participants will receive:
– Recipe cards
– Jerk marinade guide
– Barbecue and smoking tips
– Information about future masterclasses
Duration
Approximately 3 hours
About Chef Ben Arthur
Chef Ben Arthur has over 25 years of experience working in some of the UK’s most respected kitchens, including Michelin-starred restaurants, award-winning hotels, and large-scale events. Trained through the renowned Jamie Oliver Fifteen programme, Ben has gone on to lead teams as Head Chef, develop food products, run festivals and events, and work as a hospitality consultant.
Passionate about great ingredients, food science, sustainability and sharing knowledge, Ben’s classes combine professional techniques with a relaxed, engaging teaching style. Whether you’re looking to build confidence in the kitchen or learn new skills, Ben believes cooking should be accessible, enjoyable and full of flavour.
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With a wide range of great local events for people of all ages and interests, Truro has a vibrant and thriving local events scene.