2 – Small Fire

Small Fires for Cooking Outdoors: A True Jamaican Tradition

In Jamaica, nothing beats the flavor of food cooked over a small fire outdoors. Whether you’re roasting breadfruit, jerking chicken, or preparing a meal on a coal stove, the rich, smoky taste you get from cooking over an open flame is unmatched. Small fires are a big part of Jamaican outdoor cooking culture, especially in rural areas where this method is a time-honored tradition.

Cooking with a Small Fire: A Jamaican Favorite

When it comes to outdoor cooking in Jamaica, using a small fire is all about creating flavorful, authentic dishes. For example, there’s nothing like the joy of roasting a breadfruit over an open flame, charring it until the skin turns black and crispy while the inside becomes perfectly tender and soft. It’s a go-to for many Jamaicans, often paired with ackee and saltfish for a truly classic meal.

And of course, we can’t forget jerking chicken—one of Jamaica’s most famous culinary traditions. Jerked meats, especially chicken, are seasoned with a spicy blend of pimento, Scotch bonnet peppers, and other herbs, then cooked slowly over pimento wood and a small fire. The result? A mouthwatering, smoky, and spicy flavor that’s impossible to resist.

For those who love a simpler approach, the coal stove is a must. In rural areas, many homes use coal stoves outdoors to cook everything from rice and peas to curry chicken. The coal gives the food a distinct taste, and cooking this way is often more economical and sustainable than using gas or electric stoves.

The Dangers of Cooking with Small Fires

While outdoor cooking over a small fire is beloved in Jamaica, it does come with risks. If not carefully contained, small fires can quickly get out of hand, especially in dry, windy conditions. Fires that spread can destroy crops, homes, or even forests. Plus, the smoke from these fires can cause air pollution, leading to respiratory problems for those nearby.

Recognizing these challenges, the Jamaican government has introduced measures to encourage safer outdoor cooking practices. The Rural Agricultural Development Authority (RADA) recommends using clean-burning stoves and properly containing fires to prevent them from spreading. These guidelines aim to keep our traditional cooking methods alive while ensuring public safety and protecting the environment.

Keeping Tradition Alive, Safely

Though small fires remain an essential part of Jamaica’s outdoor cooking culture, it’s important to balance tradition with safety. Whether you’re roasting breadfruit, jerking chicken, or simmering stew on a coal stove, always make sure your fire is well-contained and under control. This way, you can enjoy the best of Jamaican cooking without putting your home or the environment at risk.

So, light up the coal stove, season that chicken, and get the breadfruit roasting! Just remember—safety first, and flavor always.