How to Make Jamaican Beef Patties from Scratch: A Step-by-Step Guide

How to Make Jamaican Beef Patties from Scratch: A Step-by-Step Guide

Jamaican beef patties are a beloved Caribbean snack known for their golden, flaky crust and flavorful, mildly spiced ground beef filling. Making them at home can be a rewarding experience, allowing you to enjoy authentic island flavors fresh from your kitchen. If you're craving a delicious homemade treat or want to impress guests with traditional Caribbean cuisine, this step-by-step guide will walk you through the process.

Also read: Vegan and Vegetarian African Recipes: Delicious Plant-Based Meals

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Ingredients You'll Need

For the Dough (Pastry)

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  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup cold butter (cubed)
  • 1/2 cup cold vegetable shortening or more butter
  • 3/4 cup ice-cold water (adjust as needed)
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric or curry powder (for the signature golden color)

For the Beef Filling

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  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 Scotch bonnet pepper, seeded and finely chopped (adjust for mild heat)
  • 1/2 bell pepper, finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon allspice (pimento)
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon sugar
  • 1 cup beef broth or water
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 2 scallions (green onions), finely chopped
  • Optional: 1 tablespoon soy sauce or browning sauce for color and flavor

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

  1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and turmeric (or curry powder).
  2. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, cut in the cold butter and shortening until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
  3. Gradually add ice-cold water, a little at a time, mixing with a fork until the dough just comes together.
  4. Form the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up.

Step 2: Make the Beef Filling

  1. Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add onions, garlic, Scotch bonnet pepper, and bell pepper. Sauté until tender and fragrant.
  2. Add ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until browned.
  3. Stir in thyme, allspice, paprika, black pepper, salt, sugar, and soy sauce (if using).
  4. Pour in beef broth or water and simmer on low heat for about 15 minutes, until the mixture thickens and most of the liquid has evaporated.
  5. Stir in scallions, taste, and adjust seasoning if needed. Remove from heat and let cool.

Step 3: Assemble the Patties

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. On a floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/8 inch thickness.
  3. Cut the dough into 6-inch circles with a cookie cutter or bowl.
  4. Place 2-3 tablespoons of beef filling on one half of each circle, leaving space at the edges.
  5. Fold the dough over to cover the filling, forming a half-moon shape.
  6. Press the edges together and crimp with a fork to seal completely.

Step 4: Bake the Patties

  1. Place the patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  2. Optional: Brush the tops with a beaten egg or milk for a glossy finish.
  3. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the pastry is golden and flaky.
  4. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.

Enjoy Your Homemade Jamaican Beef Patties

Serve your patties warm for a delicious snack, party appetizer, or meal accompaniment. The crisply baked pastry, combined with the savory spiced beef filling delivers a taste sensation that captures the heart of Jamaican cuisine.

Prefer a Quick and Easy Option?

If making patties from scratch feels like a lot of work, you can also enjoy the authentic flavors without the hassle. Caribbean Food Delights Frozen Jamaican Style Mild Beef Patties offer the perfect solution. Conveniently frozen and packed with perfectly seasoned mild ground beef wrapped in a flaky crust, these ready-made patties make ideal quick snacks or meals. Simply heat them up and enjoy a taste of Jamaica anytime you want.

Visit L’Afrique Market or your favorite African grocery store to find Caribbean Food Delights Beef Patties, and keep the warmth and tradition of Jamaican cuisine readily available in your freezer.

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