Trinidad Green Seasoning: The Aromatic Heart of Caribbean Cuisine

The scent of Trinidad Green Seasoning instantly transports me back to my grandmother’s kitchen in Port of Spain. The rhythmic whirr of her ancient blender, the vibrant colors of the herbs piled high on the counter, and the promise of the delicious meals to come – it’s a sensory symphony I cherish. That pungent, fresh aroma clinging to everything, infusing meats and vegetables with a depth of flavor unlike anything else. It’s more than just seasoning; it’s a taste of home, a link to my heritage, and the secret ingredient that elevates every dish it graces.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 2 cups
• Dietary Type: Vegan, Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free

Ingredients

• 1 cup vinegar
• 1 large white onion, peeled
• 6 garlic cloves (more or less to taste), peeled
• 1 bunch spring onion (including green tops), roughly chopped
• 1 bunch thyme (soft stemmed if possible)
• 1 bunch chives, roughly chopped
• 1 bunch coriander (cilantro, shadow bennet optional), roughly chopped
• ½ bunch flat leaf parsley (optional), roughly chopped
• ¼ cup Worcestershire sauce
• 3 sprigs sage (leaves only)

Equipment Needed

• Food processor or blender
• Sterilized glass jar

Instructions

1. Begin by prepping your vegetables. Peel and roughly chop the white onion.
2. Peel and roughly chop the spring onions, including the green tops. Don’t discard the green parts – they are packed with flavor!
3. Peel the garlic cloves. Adjust the quantity to your preference; some prefer a more assertive garlic flavor.
4. Roughly chop the chives, coriander (cilantro or shadow bennet), and parsley (if using). Shadow bennet, also known as culantro, offers a stronger, more pungent flavor than cilantro. If you can find it, use it!
5. Prepare the thyme. If using soft-stemmed thyme, simply roughly chop the entire bunch. If using hard, woody-stemmed thyme, carefully remove all the leaves from the stems and discard the stems, as they can be bitter.
6. Now it’s time to combine all the ingredients. Place the chopped onion, spring onions, garlic, chives, coriander (or shadow bennet), parsley (if using), thyme leaves, sage leaves, vinegar, and Worcestershire sauce into a food processor or blender.
7. Puree all the ingredients until you achieve a fairly thick consistency. The mixture should be vibrant green and aromatic.
8. Check the consistency. If the mixture is too thick, add slightly more vinegar, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency. Remember, it should be thick enough to coat meat, but not so thick that it’s difficult to spread.
9. Finally, pour the Trinidad Green Seasoning into a sterilized glass jar. This will help prolong its shelf life.
10. Refrigerate immediately.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Sterilize your jar: To sterilize the glass jar, wash it thoroughly with hot, soapy water. Then, place it in a pot of boiling water for 10 minutes. Carefully remove the jar and let it air dry completely before filling it with the seasoning.
• Adjust the heat: For a spicier kick, add a Scotch bonnet pepper (deseeded, unless you like it extremely hot!) to the blender. Proceed with caution!
• Use fresh ingredients: The quality of your ingredients will directly impact the flavor of the seasoning. Use the freshest herbs and vegetables you can find for the best results.
• Don’t over-blend: Over-blending can create a bitter taste. Blend until the ingredients are finely chopped but not completely liquefied.
• Taste as you go: Adjust the amount of garlic, vinegar, or Worcestershire sauce to your liking. The recipe is a guideline, so feel free to personalize it to your taste.
• Freeze for longer storage: While this seasoning lasts for about two weeks in the fridge, you can freeze it in ice cube trays for longer storage. Once frozen, transfer the cubes to a freezer bag. This makes it easy to use small portions as needed.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Trinidad Green Seasoning is most often used as a marinade or seasoning base for meats, poultry, and fish. Coat your chosen protein generously with the seasoning and allow it to marinate for at least two hours, or preferably overnight, in the refrigerator. The longer it marinates, the more flavorful it will be! It’s also fantastic added to stews, soups, and even vegetables.

Store the seasoning in a sterilized glass jar in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. If you notice any signs of spoilage, such as mold or an off odor, discard it immediately.

Nutritional Information

Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and quantities used.

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	25 kcal	1%
Total Fat	0.1g	0%
Saturated Fat	0g	0%
Cholesterol	0mg	0%
Sodium	85mg	4%
Total Carbohydrate	5g	1%
Dietary Fiber	0.3g	1%
Sugars	1.7g	–
Protein	0.3g	1%

Variations & Substitutions

• Shadow Bennet Substitute: If you can’t find shadow bennet (culantro), you can use extra cilantro, but be aware that the flavor will be slightly different.
• Vegan Worcestershire Sauce: Ensure your Worcestershire sauce is vegan, as some brands contain anchovies. Many vegan options are available.
• Adjust the Herbs: Feel free to experiment with other herbs such as shado beni, pimento peppers, or even a touch of mint for a unique twist.
• Salt: Some recipes include a small amount of salt. If you prefer, you can add a pinch to the blender, but be mindful of the sodium content of the Worcestershire sauce.
• Spice it up: Add a Scotch bonnet pepper (deseeded for less heat) for an extra kick!

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use a regular blender instead of a food processor?
A: Yes, you can use a regular blender, but you may need to add a little more vinegar to help it blend smoothly. Make sure to scrape down the sides as needed.

Q: How long does Trinidad Green Seasoning last in the refrigerator?
A: When stored in a sterilized jar in the refrigerator, it should last for up to two weeks.

Q: Can I freeze this seasoning?
A: Yes, you can freeze it in ice cube trays and then transfer the frozen cubes to a freezer bag for longer storage.

Q: What is shadow bennet?
A: Shadow bennet, also known as culantro, is a herb with a stronger, more pungent flavor than cilantro. It is commonly used in Caribbean and Southeast Asian cuisine.

Q: Is Worcestershire sauce vegetarian?
A: No, traditional Worcestershire sauce contains anchovies. However, there are many vegan Worcestershire sauce options available. Check the label before using.

Final Thoughts

Trinidad Green Seasoning is more than just a recipe; it’s a culinary foundation, a taste of sunshine, and a connection to Caribbean culture. Don’t be intimidated by the list of ingredients; the process is simple, and the reward is immeasurable. I encourage you to try this recipe and experience the magic of this vibrant seasoning for yourself. Feel free to experiment with the herbs and spices to create your own unique blend. And don’t hesitate to share your feedback and creations! Perhaps you’ll pair it with some grilled chicken and rice and peas, or use it as a flavour base for a hearty stew. Whatever you choose, I hope this recipe brings a little bit of the Caribbean into your kitchen.