Jamaican beef patties are a delicious, flaky pastry filled with seasoned ground beef and spices that burst with flavor in every bite. These golden-brown patties are a beloved snack in Jamaican cuisine and have become popular around the world. Rich in protein and full of bold flavors, Jamaican beef patties offer a perfect combination of savory, spicy, and slightly sweet. The addition of turmeric in the dough gives these patties their signature vibrant yellow color. A single patty typically contains around 250-300 calories, depending on the size and ingredients used. They make a great lunch or snack, and the leftovers are just as tasty the next day.
Recipe Details
- Servings: 6 patties
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Ingredients
For the Pastry Dough:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 stick (½ cup) cold unsalted butter, cubed
- â…“ cup ice-cold water (adjust as needed)
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
For the Filling:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small bell pepper, chopped
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose seasoning (or Jamaican seasoning)
- 1 teaspoon thyme, dried or fresh
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground allspice
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- ¼ cup beef broth or water
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Prepare the Pastry Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, turmeric, salt, and sugar. Add the cold, cubed butter to the flour mixture and use a pastry cutter or your hands to cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add the ice-cold water, a little at a time, until the dough just comes together. Be careful not to overwork the dough. Once the dough forms, wrap it in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the butter to chill.
2. Make the Filling
In a large skillet, heat a little oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, and bell pepper. Sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up into small pieces with a spoon. Stir in the tomato paste, beef broth (or water), and spices: thyme, paprika, allspice, cayenne pepper (optional), salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the liquid to reduce. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly before filling the pastry.
3. Assemble the Patties
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Take the chilled dough and divide it into 6 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball, then flatten it into a circle using a rolling pin. Place a spoonful of the beef mixture in the center of each dough circle. Carefully fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Press the edges together with a fork to seal the patty.
4. Bake the Patties
Place the patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with a beaten egg to give them a golden color when baked. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the patties are golden brown and crispy. Remove from the oven and allow them to cool for a few minutes before serving.
Tips for the Perfect Jamaican Beef Patties
- Dough Texture: Be sure not to overwork the dough. The more you handle it, the less flaky the crust will be. Chill the dough before rolling it out to ensure a buttery, tender texture.
- Spices: Adjust the level of heat by modifying the cayenne pepper. If you prefer a milder version, simply leave it out, or add more for an extra kick.
- Freezing Tips: You can freeze the patties before baking. Simply assemble and freeze them on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag. When you’re ready to bake, cook them from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
- Flavor Variations: Experiment with different fillings like chicken, vegetables, or even pork for a twist on the classic recipe.
Why You’ll Love These Jamaican Beef Patties
Jamaican beef patties are more than just a snack; they’re an explosion of flavors in a crispy, buttery shell. Whether you’re craving something savory for lunch or looking for a delicious party appetizer, these patties are guaranteed to satisfy. The mix of aromatic spices, seasoned beef, and flakey pastry will have your taste buds dancing.
Try them today and enjoy a taste of Jamaica right at home!
