Ep. # 68 Caribbean Cuisine Meets American Innovation

Discover the vibrant fusion of Caribbean and American culinary traditions with John Morris, the mastermind behind Joy's Island Spice, as he joins us to share his passion for Caribbean flavors inspired by his late mother, Joy. Listen as John unfolds his mission to elevate Caribbean cuisine to fine dining, transforming traditional jerk into a gourmet experience much like Italian cuisine's rise. Uncover the secrets behind their standout jerk barbecue sauce, a harmonious blend of Jamaican and American barbecue, and learn about the cultural nuances that distinguish English-speaking from Spanish-speaking Caribbean culinary traditions. Plus, John's story offers practical insights into using these versatile sauces and rubs with your favorite proteins, including tofu, pork, and more.

As Joy’s Island Spice evolves, so does its product line, introducing sophisticated non-alcoholic beverages like the Sorrel elixir. John reveals the strategic shifts required to meet changing consumer demands and the journey to featuring these elixirs in a Michelin-starred Manhattan restaurant. Join us as we reminisce about community events like the Rivervale Day chili cook-offs, a celebration of flavor, effort, and our shared love for local businesses. Remember to nominate your beloved local spots for our future episodes and help us continue to champion community spirit and support for neighborhood enterprises.

Joy's Island Spice

John Morris

(908) 224-6900

[email protected]

joysislandspice.com