Jamaican Beef Patties
When it comes to comfort food, Jamaican beef patties are a delicious and satisfying choice. These flaky pastries are filled with a savory mixture of spiced ground beef that is sure to tantalize your taste buds. The vibrant flavors and golden crust make them a favorite at parties, gatherings, or as a delightful snack any time of day. Today, I’ll guide you through making these irresistible Jamaican beef patties from scratch, using ingredients that you can easily find at your local grocery store. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this flavorful treat!
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
- Authentic Flavor: The blend of spices and fresh ingredients creates an authentic Jamaican taste that transports you to the Caribbean with every bite.
- Easy to Make: With step-by-step instructions, this recipe is accessible for both beginners and seasoned cooks.
- Customizable: Feel free to adjust the spice level or fill the patties with your favorite ingredients!
- Freezable: These patties can be made ahead of time and frozen, making them a convenient option for busy days.
Shopping List
- For the Dough:
- 450 grams self-rising flour, plus more for dusting
- 2 teaspoons sugar
- 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt
- 3 tablespoons ground turmeric
- 2 tablespoons chilled butter, diced small
- 1 cup plus 2 tablespoons ice water
- Milk or water, for brushing
- For the Filling:
- 1 pound 93% lean ground beef
- 1 medium onion, minced
- 1 scotch bonnet pepper, de-seeded and diced (wear gloves)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon fresh ground pepper
- 1 beef stock cube, such as Maggi
- 2/3 cup boiling water
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon allspice
- 1 teaspoon breadcrumbs or flour
- 2 tablespoons dark soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, or browning
Before You Start: Equipment
- Mixing Bowl: For combining the dough and filling ingredients.
- Rolling Pin: To roll out the pastry dough to the right thickness.
- Baking Sheet: To place the patties for baking.
- Knife: For cutting and sealing the patties.
- Brush: To apply milk or water on the patties before baking.
Jamaican Beef Patties in Steps
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the self-rising flour, sugar, kosher salt, and ground turmeric. Mix well until all dry ingredients are combined. Next, add the diced chilled butter to the flour mixture, using your fingers or a pastry cutter to incorporate it until it resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add the ice water, mixing until a dough forms. Be careful not to overmix. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Step 2: Make the Filling
In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula. Once browned, add the minced onion and diced scotch bonnet pepper, cooking until the onions are translucent. Season with garlic powder, kosher salt, fresh ground pepper, and sweet paprika. Crumble the beef stock cube over the mixture. Pour in the boiling water and stir to combine. Allow the mixture to simmer for 5-7 minutes, until most of the liquid evaporates. Stir in the allspice and breadcrumbs or flour to help bind the mixture. Remove from heat and let it cool.
Step 3: Roll Out the Dough
Once the dough has chilled, dust your work surface with flour. Divide the dough into equal portions, depending on how large you want your patties. Roll each portion into a circle about 1/8 inch thick. Use a large plate or a round cutter to ensure uniform circles.
Step 4: Assemble the Patties
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Take a dough circle and place a generous spoonful of the beef filling in the center. Be careful not to overfill! Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape. Press the edges together to seal, then crimp with a fork or pinch to create a decorative edge. Repeat with the remaining dough and filling.
Step 5: Bake the Patties
Place the assembled patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with milk or water for a golden finish. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the patties are golden brown.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once baked, remove the patties from the oven and let them cool slightly. Serve warm on their own or with your favorite dipping sauce. Enjoy the delightful crunch of the pastry and the flavorful beef filling!
Fit It to Your Goals
- Spicy: Increase the amount of scotch bonnet pepper for an extra kick.
- Lean: Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
- Vegetarian: Replace the beef with sautéed vegetables or lentils for a plant-based filling.
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend to make the dough.
Don’t Do This
- Do not skip chilling the dough; it helps to achieve a flaky texture.
- Avoid overfilling the patties to prevent them from bursting during baking.
- Don’t forget to brush the tops with milk or water for that beautiful golden color.
- Be cautious when handling scotch bonnet peppers; use gloves to avoid irritation.
Meal Prep & Storage Notes
If you want to make these Jamaican beef patties in advance, they freeze beautifully! After assembling the patties, lay them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag for up to three months. To bake from frozen, add an extra 10 minutes to the baking time. You can also prepare the filling a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to assemble the patties.
Jamaican Beef Patties Q&A
Can I use a different type of meat for the filling?
Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives work well in this recipe. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
What can I serve with Jamaican beef patties?
Jamaican beef patties are delicious on their own, but you can serve them with a side of coleslaw, spicy dipping sauces, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
How do I know when the patties are done baking?
The patties are done when they turn a beautiful golden brown color. You can also check the bottom; if it’s brown and firm, they are ready to come out of the oven!
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the dough ahead of time! Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Let it come to room temperature before rolling it out.
Bring It Home
Making Jamaican beef patties from scratch is a rewarding experience that brings the vibrant flavors of the Caribbean to your kitchen. With a flaky, golden crust and a savory beef filling, these patties are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving them at a party or enjoying them as a snack, your friends and family will be begging for the recipe. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy these delightful Jamaican beef patties that are sure to become a new favorite in your home!
Jamaican Beef Patties
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the self-rising flour, sugar, kosher salt, and ground turmeric. Mix well until all dry ingredients are combined. Next, add the diced chilled butter to the flour mixture, using your fingers or a pastry cutter to incorporate it until it resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add the ice water, mixing until a dough forms. Be careful not to overmix. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula. Once browned, add the minced onion and diced scotch bonnet pepper, cooking until the onions are translucent. Season with garlic powder, kosher salt, fresh ground pepper, and sweet paprika. Crumble the beef stock cube over the mixture. Pour in the boiling water and stir to combine. Allow the mixture to simmer for 5-7 minutes, until most of the liquid evaporates. Stir in the allspice and breadcrumbs or flour to help bind the mixture. Remove from heat and let it cool.
- Once the dough has chilled, dust your work surface with flour. Divide the dough into equal portions, depending on how large you want your patties. Roll each portion into a circle about 1/8 inch thick. Use a large plate or a round cutter to ensure uniform circles.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Take a dough circle and place a generous spoonful of the beef filling in the center. Be careful not to overfill! Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape. Press the edges together to seal, then crimp with a fork or pinch to create a decorative edge. Repeat with the remaining dough and filling.
- Place the assembled patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with milk or water for a golden finish. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the patties are golden brown.
- Once baked, remove the patties from the oven and let them cool slightly. Serve warm on their own or with your favorite dipping sauce. Enjoy the delightful crunch of the pastry and the flavorful beef filling!
Notes
- These patties can be frozen for up to three months; simply bake from frozen with an extra 10 minutes.
- Feel free to adjust the spice level with more or less scotch bonnet pepper.
- For a lighter version, substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef.
