What if dinner didn’t mean stress, mess, or hours in the kitchen?

For Veneise George, founder of Yawdi.ca, the answer was simple: blend tradition with convenience—and do it without compromising flavour, health, or heritage.

At Arinka, we love a good story. And even more, we love a jar of something that tells one. So today, we’re breaking down what makes Yawdi’s Jerk Marinade a pantry essential—and a cultural ambassador.

Jerk, the Jamaican Way

Yawdi’s jerk marinade was born in the heart of Scarborough, Ontario, but its soul is steeped in Jamaican kitchens—the kind filled with the rich aromas of Sunday dinner, passed down through generations.

As a busy mom and a full-time community leader, Veneise wanted to make traditional Jamaican cooking easier and faster, without losing the bold, smoky, sweet heat of real jerk flavour. So she did what all great matriarchs do: she made her own.

And the result? A clean, honest marinade packed with real ingredients—and no nonsense.

Inside the Jar: A Closer Look

Let’s take a peek behind the label. Here’s what you’ll find in Yawdi’s Jerk Marinade:

Water & Vinegar – For moisture, balance, and that perfect tang

White & Green Onions – The aromatic base of every great Caribbean dish

Canola Oil – A light oil that helps everything meld together smoothly

Blackstrap Molasses – Adds a deep, smoky sweetness that lingers

Scotch Bonnet Peppers – The signature Jamaican fire, fragrant and bold

Soya Sauce – Rich umami depth (contains wheat & soy)

Garlic Powder & Irradiated Spices – Because flavour should never be bland

What you won’t find? Artificial flavours. Unreadable ingredients. Or preservatives that don’t belong on your dinner plate.

Made in Canada, Inspired by the Caribbean

While the flavours are deeply Jamaican, Yawdi’s is proudly made in Canada, using a mix of domestic and imported ingredients. Veneise personally ensures that every jar meets the highest standards—because she’s not just building a brand. She’s building a legacy.

Today, Yawdi’s marinades and sauces are available in over 100 stores, including Sobeys and Loblaws, and have become a go-to for families who want real food, real fast.

Why We Love It

✔️ Convenient – Skip the chopping, grinding, and marinating chaos

✔️ Authentic – All the bold, balanced flavour of home-cooked jerk

✔️ Honest – Natural ingredients you can trust and pronounce

✔️ Versatile – Use it on chicken, tofu, jackfruit, veggies—whatever you're into

And it’s all brought to you by someone who understands that family time and good food can coexist—beautifully.

Try Yawdi’s Jerk Marinade Now at arinka.ca

Elevate your weeknight meals or impress guests at your next cookout.