Grenadian Ember Bites
History and Background
Grenadian Ember Bites are a savory delicacy, bursting with the rich, tropical spices of Grenada. Known as the "Spice Island," Grenada is famous for its production of nutmeg, cloves, ginger, cinnamon, and cocoa. This dish draws on the island's beloved spice profile, offering a delightful fusion of crisp textures and robust flavors.
Ingredients
- Chicken Breast - 1 lb
- Nutmeg - 1 tsp
- Cloves - 1/2 tsp, ground
- Ginger - 1 inch, grated
- Cinnamon - 1 tsp
- Cocoa Powder - 1 tbsp
- Olive Oil - 2 tbsp
- Onion - 1, finely chopped
- Garlic - 3 cloves, minced
- Lime Juice - from 1 lime
- Salt - to taste
- Black Pepper - to taste
- Thyme - 1 tsp
- Honey - 1 tbsp
Preparation
- Begin by cleaning the chicken breast and patting it dry with a paper towel. Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
- In a bowl, combine nutmeg, clove, ginger, cinnamon, and cocoa powder. Mix these spices well to create an aromatic blend.
- Add the spice blend to the chicken breast, ensuring each piece is well-coated.
- Drizzle olive oil over the chicken pieces and add onion, garlic, and lime juice to the mix. Stir to combine.
- Season with salt, black pepper, and thyme. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld.
Cooking Process
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto skewers.
- Place the skewers on the grill, cooking the chicken pieces for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked through and slightly charred for that "ember" finish.
- While grilling, baste the chicken with honey to enhance the caramelization process and add a subtle sweetness to balance out the spicy notes.
- Set your timer to prevent overcooking and ensure the bites remain juicy inside.
How to Enjoy Grenadian Ember Bites
Serve the Grenadian Ember Bites hot, garnishing with additional lime juice if desired. These bites make for a fantastic appetizer or a tantalizing main course when paired with a fresh tropical salad or coconut rice. Enjoy the sun-kissed flavors of Grenada in each mouthful of this spicy, sweet, and utterly delicious dish.