The Irish Moss is a seaweed that was originally found near Ireland hence the name. The Irish consumed Irish moss during the famine of the 19th century in Ireland. The seaweed grows on rocks in Jamaica. Irish migrants to Jamaica brought the tradition of the Irish Moss to Jamaica.   It is one of Jamaica’s most notorious drinks among men (and some women)  who seek “vigor”. It is believed “to put lead in your pencil “, “put it back” and boost energy that will lead to an increased libido. It is also used by many as a herbal medicine. Here is our Jamaican Irish Moss Recipe.

Ingredients

• ¾  lb Irish Moss
• 3 oz. gum arabic ( known as gum acacia is a natural gum made of hardened sap taken from two species of the acacia tree)
• ¾ cup natural honey or  1 can sweetened condensed milk (use natural honey)
• ¾  pound sugar
• 5 oz. isinglass
• 5 oz. linseed
• 3 tbsp. vanilla extract
• 5 qt. water
• 2 tablespoons of powdered nutmeg

Method

1. Wash the Irish Moss to remove sand and other matter.
2. Place the Irish Moss in water overnight. One part Irish moss to two parts water. (Optionally can cook right away however you will have to cook it longer)
3. Place 5 qt. water in a pot and bring to a boil
4. Add Irish Moss, gum arabic, isinglass, and linseed.
5. Cook for ¾ hour until all the ingredients, with the exception of the Irish Moss, has dissolved.
6. Pour the liquid into a strainer into another container. Throw away the boiled Irish Moss.
7. Add the rest of the ingredients to the liquid and mix well. Boil for an additional 10 minutes.
8. Let the mixture cool and then place in the refrigerator for 5 hours before severing.

Photo: Deposit Photo