Discover Jamaican Beef Patties

Jamaican cuisine is a vibrant tapestry of flavors, colors, and culinary traditions that reflect the island’s rich history and diverse culture. Known for its bold spices, fresh ingredients, and hearty dishes, Jamaican food is as much about the experience as it is about taste. One of the most beloved street foods that encapsulate this culinary heritage is the Jamaican beef patty. These delicious pastries, with their flaky crust and savory filling, are a staple in Jamaican households and a popular snack for locals and tourists alike.

Discover Jamaican Beef Patties

Savor the tastes of Jamaica with these delicious homemade Beef Patties! This recipe features flaky turmeric-infused pastry filled with a savory blend of ground beef, onions, garlic, and spices. Perfect for snacks or gatherings, they're a versatile treat that can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you’ll be able to whip up a batch of these flavorful patties in just over an hour. Add a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick!

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Ingredients

For the Pastry:

4 cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon turmeric powder (for color)

1 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed

1/4 cup cold water (add more as needed)

1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

For the Beef Filling:

1 lb ground beef (preferably 80/20)

1 small onion, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 teaspoon dried)

1 teaspoon allspice

1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1 tablespoon soy sauce

1 tablespoon ketchup

1/4 cup beef broth or water

2 scallions, chopped

Salt to taste

For Assembling:

1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Instructions

Make the Pastry:

- In a large bowl, combine the flour, salt, and turmeric powder. Mix well.

- Add the cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

- In a small bowl, mix the cold water and apple cider vinegar. Gradually add this to the flour mixture, stirring until it forms a dough. Knead gently until smooth, wrap in plastic, and chill for at least 30 minutes.

Prepare the Beef Filling:

- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped onion and garlic until softened, about 3-4 minutes.

- Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until it's browned.

- Stir in the thyme, allspice, cayenne, black pepper, soy sauce, ketchup, and beef broth. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 5 minutes until thickened.

- Remove from heat and mix in the chopped scallions. Let it cool while you roll out the pastry.

Assemble the Patties:

- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

- Roll out the chilled pastry on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8 inch (3mm) thick.

- Using a round cutter (about 5-6 inches in diameter), cut out circles.

- Place a generous spoonful of the beef filling onto one half of each circle, leaving a border around the edge.

- Moisten the edges with a bit of water and fold the pastry over to encase the filling. Press to seal, then crimp the edges with a fork for a decorative touch.

Bake the Patties:

- Place the patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with the beaten egg to give them a golden color.

- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the patties are golden brown and flaky.

Serve & Enjoy:

- Allow the patties to cool slightly before serving. These can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature, perfect for a snack or party! Serve with your favorite hot sauce for an extra kick.

Prep Time: 40 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes | Servings: 12 patties