Jamaican beef patties are a popular and delicious pastry that originated in Jamaica. They are made with a flaky pastry dough that is filled with a spicy beef filling. The filling is typically made with ground beef, onions, scallions, thyme, and a blend of Jamaican spices, including allspice, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
How To Make:
To make the pastry dough, a mixture of flour, butter, and water are combined and kneaded until it forms a smooth, elastic dough. The dough is then rolled out and cut into circles, which are then filled with the beef filling and folded into a half-moon shape. The edges of the patty are then crimped to seal in the filling.
The patties are typically baked until the pastry is golden brown and flaky, and the filling is hot and flavorful. They are often served as a snack or a quick meal and are popular throughout Jamaica and the Caribbean. In fact, they have become so popular that they are now widely available in many parts of the world, including the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom.
In addition to beef, Jamaican patties can also be made with chicken, pork, or vegetables for those who prefer a vegetarian or vegan option. Regardless of the filling, they are a delicious and satisfying pastry that is perfect for any time of day.
Tips and Variations:
Tips:
Keep the dough cold: Chill the dough before rolling it out to make it easier to work with and prevent it from becoming too soft.
Use a fork to crimp the edges: Use a fork to seal the edges of the patty. This not only seals in the filling but also creates a decorative pattern.
Use a pastry brush: Brush the tops of the patties with a beaten egg or milk to give them a shiny, golden-brown finish.
Let them cool: Allow the patties to cool for a few minutes before serving to avoid burning your mouth on the hot filling.
Serve with a side: Jamaican patties are delicious on their own, but they also pair well with a side of coleslaw or salad to balance out the spicy filling.
Variations:
Spiciness: Adjust the level of spiciness in your filling to your liking. You can use more or less of the traditional Jamaican spices, such as allspice, cinnamon, and nutmeg, or add some extra chili powder or hot sauce for a spicier patty.
Vegetarian: If you prefer a vegetarian option, you can replace the beef filling with a mixture of vegetables and spices. Try using diced potatoes, carrots, and peas, along with some curry powder and turmeric for flavor.
Chicken or pork: Beef is not the only filling option for Jamaican patties. You can also use ground chicken or pork, or diced and seasoned chicken or pork instead.
Cheese: Add some shredded cheese to your filling mixture for a gooey, cheesy patty.
Sweet potato dough: Try using sweet potato instead of regular flour for the dough to add some sweetness and a slightly different texture.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp. salt
- 1 tsp. curry powder
- 1 tsp. turmeric
- 1/2 cup cold butter, cut into small pieces
- 1/2 cup cold water
- 1 lb. ground beef
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp. thyme
- 1/2 tsp. paprika
- 1/2 tsp. allspice
- 1/2 tsp. salt
- 1/4 tsp. black pepper
- 1/4 cup bread crumbs
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 tbsp. water
Instructions:
To make the pastry, combine the flour, salt, curry powder, and turmeric in a large bowl. Add the butter and use your fingers to rub it into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse breadcrumbs.
Gradually add the cold water, a little at a time, and mix until the dough comes together. On a floured surface, knead the dough until it is elastic and smooth. Each chunk of dough should be formed into a ball after being divided into 8 equal pieces. Cover the balls with a damp towel and set them aside.
To make the filling, cook the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat until it is browned and cooked through. Add the onion, garlic, thyme, paprika, allspice, salt, and black pepper. Cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Stir in the bread crumbs and 1/4 cup of water. Simmer for a further five minutes to thicken the mixture. Remove from heat and let cool.
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Roll each dough ball into a circle that is about 6 inches in diameter on a surface dusted with flour.
Spoon a heaping tablespoon of the beef mixture onto one half of each pastry circle. Fold the other half of the pastry over the beef mixture and press the edges together to seal.
Crimp the edges of each burger with a fork. In a small bowl, combine the egg and one tablespoon of water. Brush the egg mixture over each patty.
Bake the patties on a lined baking sheet for 25-30 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy.
Serve the Jamaican beef patties hot and enjoy!