Jamaican patties : how to prepare this item

 

Jamaican patties are delicious pastry turnovers filled with a variety of savory fillings. They are a popular snack and street food in Jamaica and beyond. Here's a basic recipe for making Jamaican beef patties, one of the most common varieties:

**Ingredients:**

**For the Pastry:**

- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

- 1/2 teaspoon salt

- 1 cup cold butter (cut into small cubes)

- 1/2 cup ice water

**For the Beef Filling:**

- 1 pound (450g) ground beef

- 1 small onion (finely chopped)

- 2 cloves garlic (minced)

- 1/2 teaspoon ground allspice (pimento)

- 1/2 teaspoon curry powder

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

- 1/2 teaspoon paprika

- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric (for color, optional)

- Salt and pepper to taste

- 1/4 cup beef or vegetable broth

- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

**Instructions:**

**1. Prepare the Pastry:**

   - In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt.

   - Add the cold butter cubes and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

   - Gradually add the ice water and knead the dough until it comes together. Form it into a ball, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for about 30 minutes.

**2. Prepare the Beef Filling:**

   - In a skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat.

   - Add the chopped onion and garlic and sauté until softened.

   - Add the ground beef and cook until it's browned and crumbled.

   - Stir in the allspice, curry powder, thyme, paprika, turmeric (if using), salt, and pepper. Cook for a few minutes to allow the spices to infuse.

   - Pour in the beef or vegetable broth, reduce the heat to low, and simmer for about 10-15 minutes, or until the mixture thickens and the flavors meld. Remove from heat and let it cool.

**3. Assemble the Patties:**

   - Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

   - Roll out the chilled pastry dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8-inch thickness.

   - Cut out circles using a round cutter (typically about 4-6 inches in diameter).

   - Place a spoonful of the cooled beef filling onto one half of each pastry circle.

   - Fold the other half over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Press the edges to seal.

**4. Bake:**

   - Place the assembled patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

   - Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the pastry turns golden brown.

**5. Serve:**

   - Allow the Jamaican patties to cool slightly before serving. They are often enjoyed as a snack or appetizer.

Feel free to adjust the level of spice in the filling to suit your taste. Jamaican patties can be made with other fillings, such as chicken, vegetables, or even seafood, so you can get creative with your favorite flavors!