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Chicago Sun-Times
Chicago Sun-Times
National
Adriana Cardona-Maguigad | WBEZ Curious City

Jamaican jerk cuisine — exactly what is it and why is it so popular in Chicago?

This traditional Jamaican dish from Good to Go in Evanston includes rice and beans, sweet plantains, jerk chicken, jerk sauce and a side of festivals: fried sweet dumplings made with cornmeal. (Jason Marck)

Tesnim Hassan has lived in the Chicago area for about 10 years. But she’s originally from Los Angeles.

Back in L.A, she grew up in Leimert Park, a diverse neighborhood home to immigrants from all over the world. Hassan, who is African American, enjoys connecting with Black immigrants from Africa and the Caribbean, particularly Jamaica. She loves Jamaican culture, the music and cuisine, including its tasty jerk sauce — a mix of savory, sweet and spicy flavors that complement all kinds of grilled meats.

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