Caribbean Green Seasoning

Caribbean Green Seasoning is the heart and soul of many island dishes — a fragrant, herb-packed blend that adds bold, fresh flavor to meats, fish, stews, and even rice. It’s vibrant, zesty, and aromatic, made from a mix of herbs, garlic, peppers, and citrus. Every island has its own twist, but the result is always the same: a burst of tropical flavor that transforms everyday meals into something unforgettable.

When I first learned to make this from a Trinidadian friend, I was amazed at how much flavor came from such simple ingredients. She called it her “magic marinade,” and after one taste, I understood why. The scent of fresh herbs, garlic, and lime instantly filled the kitchen, and that same batch flavored everything from grilled chicken to Sunday rice and peas. Now I always keep a jar in my fridge — it’s one of those condiments that turns cooking into pure joy.

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Recipe Info

Cuisine: Caribbean
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Yield: About 2 cups
Storage: Keeps up to 2 weeks refrigerated or 3 months frozen

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Ingredients

• 1 bunch fresh cilantro (about 1 cup, chopped)
• 1 bunch parsley (about 1 cup, chopped)
• 6 green onions, chopped
• 1 small onion, roughly chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped
• 6 cloves garlic
• 2–3 Scotch bonnet or habanero peppers (seeds removed for less heat)
• 1-inch piece fresh ginger
• 1 lime or ½ lemon, juiced
• ½ cup vinegar or water (to blend)
• 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves (or 1 tsp dried)
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper

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Instructions

1. Prep the Ingredients
Wash and roughly chop all herbs and vegetables. Remove pepper seeds if you prefer a milder seasoning.

2. Blend Until Smooth
Add all ingredients to a blender or food processor. Pulse, then blend until it forms a thick, slightly chunky paste. Add a splash of water or vinegar as needed to help it blend.

3. Taste and Adjust
Taste the mixture and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or lime juice as needed.

4. Store and Use
Transfer to a clean glass jar. Store in the fridge for up to 2 weeks or freeze in ice cube trays for long-term use.

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Pro Tips

• For extra depth, add a few celery stalks or a sprig of rosemary.
• Use gloves when handling Scotch bonnet peppers — they’re potent.
• Add a bit of olive oil if you want a smoother, sauce-like texture.
• Every island has its version — experiment until it tastes right to you.

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Uses

• Marinade for chicken, pork, or fish before grilling or baking.
• Stir into soups, curries, or stews for a flavor boost.
• Mix with mayo or yogurt for a spicy herb dip.
• Add a spoonful to rice, beans, or roasted vegetables.

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Storage Notes

• Refrigerate: Up to 2 weeks in an airtight jar.
• Freeze: Spoon into ice cube trays, freeze, and transfer cubes to a freezer bag for easy use.
• Tip: Add a thin layer of oil on top in the jar to help preserve freshness.

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FAQs

Q: Can I make this without hot peppers?
A: Yes. It won’t be as spicy, but you’ll still get tons of flavor from the herbs, garlic, and lime.

Q: Is this the same as green marinade or sofrito?
A: It’s similar, but Caribbean Green Seasoning has more citrus and heat. Sofrito is milder and tomato-based.

Q: What can I use instead of cilantro?
A: Substitute with more parsley or culantro (if available) for a traditional island flavor.

Q: Can I cook with it directly or only use it as a marinade?
A: Both! It’s great added to stews, soups, and rice dishes for fresh herbal flavor.

Q: How spicy is it?
A: That depends on your peppers. Remove seeds for mild heat, or leave them in if you want it fiery.