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Jamaican Beef Patty

Irresistible Jamaican Beef Patty: Flaky, Spicy Goodness

These Jamaican Beef Patties are a savory snack filled with spiced ground beef, offering a piece of Caribbean culture in every bite.
Prep Time 1 hour
Cook Time 32 minutes
Chilling Time 45 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 12 minutes
Servings: 6 patties
Course: Snacks
Cuisine: Caribbean
Calories: 320

Ingredients
  

For the Beef Filling
  • 1 pound lean ground beef Use lean ground beef for optimal flavor.
  • 1 medium yellow onion Adds sweetness and moisture; substitute with shallots for a milder flavor.
  • 2 stalks escallion (green onion) Brings a fresh and mild onion flavor; can be replaced with chives.
  • 1 tablespoon thyme Provides aromatic notes; fresh thyme is preferable.
  • 2 cloves garlic Enhances the overall flavor; go for fresh minced garlic for the best taste.
  • 1 pepper scotch bonnet pepper Introduces characteristic heat; adjust quantity for desired spice.
  • 1 teaspoon paprika Adds subtle smoky flavor and color.
  • 1 teaspoon ground allspice Offers warm, sweet undertones synonymous with Jamaican cuisine.
  • 1 teaspoon salt Essential for enhancing flavors.
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper Essential for enhancing flavors.
  • 1 cube beef bouillon Intensifies beef flavor; omit for a vegetarian option.
  • 4 tablespoons salted butter Adds richness; substitute with olive oil if desired.
  • 2 tablespoons ketchup Provides sweetness and moisture; barbecue sauce can be a great alternative.
  • 1 tablespoon browning sauce Recommended for authentic taste; optional but beneficial.
  • 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce Adds sweetness and complexity; can be omitted if preferred.
  • 1/2 cup plain breadcrumbs Helps bind the filling; alternatives include crushed crackers.
  • 1/4 cup water Needed to steam and moisten the filling mixture.
For the Pastry Crust
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour Forms the base of the pastry; use gluten-free flour as an alternative.
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric powder Adds color and a hint of earthiness to the crust.
  • 1 tablespoon granulated white sugar Balances flavors in the crust.
  • 1/2 cup cold shortening Essential for achieving a flaky pastry.
  • 1/2 cup butter Essential for achieving a flaky pastry.
  • 1 cup ice-cold water Helps bind the dough without compromising flakiness.
  • 1 large egg For egg wash; substitute with milk for a dairy-free wash.

Equipment

  • Skillet
  • mixing bowl
  • Rolling Pin
  • baking sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • Round cutter

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a large skillet over medium heat, add a drizzle of olive oil and brown the ground beef for about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the chopped yellow onion, minced garlic, fresh thyme, and sliced escallion, then season with paprika, ground allspice, salt, and pepper. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes until the mixture thickens; allow it to cool completely.
  2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, turmeric powder, and granulated sugar. Cut in the cold shortening and butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually stir in ice-cold water, 1 tablespoon at a time, until the dough forms a ball. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for 30-60 minutes.
  3. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll out the chilled dough to about ⅛-inch thickness on a lightly floured surface. Use a round cutter to cut the dough into 5-6 inch circles. Place 2-3 tablespoons of the cooled meat filling on one side of each circle. Carefully fold over the dough and crimp the edges with a fork to seal securely.
  4. Arrange the assembled Jamaican Beef Patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with an egg wash made from a beaten egg. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-32 minutes, or until they are beautifully golden brown and flaky. Allow to cool slightly before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1pattyCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 15gFat: 17gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gTrans Fat: 0.5gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 250mgFiber: 2gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 5IUVitamin C: 3mgCalcium: 1mgIron: 15mg

Notes

Let the meat filling cool before adding it to the dough to ensure a flaky crust. Keep the pastry dough cold to achieve delightful flakiness once baked. Be careful not to over-knead the dough to avoid tough texture. Crimp edges tightly to prevent leakage during baking. Wear gloves when handling turmeric to avoid staining.

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