Jamaican Beef Patties

Jamaican beef patties are a delicious and iconic Caribbean dish that combines a flaky, buttery pastry with a savory, spiced beef filling. Perfect as a snack or a meal, these patties are sure to impress your family and friends. This guide will walk you through the ingredients, cooking methods, and some helpful tips to make your Jamaican beef patties a success.

Ingredients for Jamaican Beef Patties (Serves 4)

For the Dough

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp turmeric powder (for color)
• 1 tbsp curry powder
• 3 tbsp cold butter (cubed)
• ½ – ¾ cup cold water

For the Filling

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 Scotch bonnet pepper, finely chopped (adjust to taste)
• 2 green onions, chopped
• 1 tsp thyme (dried or fresh)
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• ½ cup breadcrumbs
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tbsp canola oil (for frying)

For Egg Wash (optional)

• 1 egg, beaten

Grocery List

• All-purpose flour
• Sugar
• Salt
• Turmeric powder
• Curry powder
• Cold butter
• Ground beef
• Onion
• Garlic
• Scotch bonnet pepper (or habanero for less heat)
• Green onions (scallions)
• Thyme
• Worcestershire sauce
• Breadcrumbs
• Canola oil
• Eggs

Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, salt, turmeric, and curry powder.
2. Add the cold butter and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Gradually add cold water, mixing until a dough forms. Adjust the water as needed.
4. Knead the dough gently for about 2 minutes until smooth. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Step 2: Make the Filling

1. Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until translucent (about 5 minutes).
2. Stir in minced garlic and Scotch bonnet pepper; cook for an additional minute.
3. Add ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until browned.
4. Season with thyme, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.
5. Mix in breadcrumbs to absorb excess moisture. Remove from heat and let cool.

Step 3: Assemble the Patties

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface to about ¼ inch thick.
3. Cut circles using a cookie cutter or a small bowl (about 4 inches in diameter).
4. Place about 2 tablespoons of filling in the center of each circle.
5. Fold the dough over to form a half-moon shape and seal edges by pressing with a fork.
6. If using, brush the tops with beaten egg for a golden finish.

Step 4: Bake the Patties

1. Place the patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
2. Bake for 20–25 minutes or until golden brown.

Cooking Time

• Preparation Time: 30 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: Approximately 1 hour

Nutritional Information (per patty)

Approximate values based on standard ingredients:

• Calories: 479 kcal
• Protein: 20g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fat: 28g

Useful Tips and Notes

• Make Ahead: You can prepare the dough and filling in advance and freeze assembled patties for later use.

• Spice Level: Adjust the amount of Scotch bonnet pepper according to your heat preference; you can substitute it with jalapeños if you prefer milder flavors.

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Jamaican beef patties are not just food; they are an experience that brings warmth and joy to any gathering! Enjoy making these delightful pastries that are sure to be loved by all!