You’re in for a treat with this Jamaican beef patty recipe that promises a flaky crust and a flavorful filling. Perfect for any occasion, these patties are a crowd-pleaser.
Why This Recipe Works
- The combination of butter and shortening in the crust ensures a flaky and tender texture that’s hard to resist.
- Seasoning the beef filling with authentic Jamaican spices like allspice and Scotch bonnet peppers gives it an irresistible kick.
- Chilling the dough before rolling it out prevents shrinkage during baking, ensuring perfectly shaped patties every time.
- Brushing the patties with an egg wash before baking gives them a beautiful golden color and a slight shine.
- This recipe balances simplicity and authenticity, making it accessible to cooks of all levels while staying true to traditional flavors.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cold butter, cubed
- 1/4 cup shortening
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup ice water
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon allspice
- 1/2 teaspoon thyme
- 1 Scotch bonnet pepper, finely chopped (optional)
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Equipment Needed
- Large mixing bowl
- Pastry cutter or fork
- Rolling pin
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Pastry brush
Instructions
Prepare the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the cold butter and shortening, using a pastry cutter or fork to blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add ice water, a tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together. Wrap in plastic and chill for at least 30 minutes. Tip: Keeping your ingredients cold is key to a flaky crust.
Make the Filling
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until no longer pink. Add the onion, garlic, allspice, thyme, and Scotch bonnet pepper, cooking until the onions are soft and the spices are fragrant. Remove from heat and let cool slightly. Tip: For an extra kick, add more Scotch bonnet pepper to taste.
Assemble the Patties
Preheat your oven to 375°F. Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into circles using a large round cutter. Spoon a portion of the beef mixture onto one half of each circle, fold over, and crimp the edges with a fork to seal. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Bake to Perfection
Brush the tops of the patties with the beaten egg. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown. Tip: For an even bake, rotate the baking sheet halfway through the cooking time.
Tips and Tricks
For those looking to elevate their Jamaican beef patties, consider these advanced tips. First, try substituting half of the all-purpose flour with bread flour for a chewier texture. Second, let the filling cool completely before assembling to prevent the dough from becoming soggy. Third, experiment with adding grated cheese to the dough for a cheesy twist. Lastly, for a vegetarian version, swap the ground beef for lentils or mushrooms, adjusting the seasoning as needed.
Recipe Variations
- Cheese Lover’s Delight: Add shredded cheddar cheese to the beef filling for a gooey surprise.
- Spicy Upgrade: Increase the amount of Scotch bonnet pepper or add a dash of hot sauce to the filling for extra heat.
- Vegetarian Twist: Replace the ground beef with cooked lentils or finely chopped mushrooms for a meat-free option.
- Sweet and Savory: Incorporate a tablespoon of brown sugar into the filling for a subtle sweetness that complements the spices.
- Mini Patties: Use a smaller cutter to make bite-sized patties, perfect for parties or snacks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! The dough can be prepared up to 2 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Just make sure it’s tightly wrapped in plastic to prevent it from drying out. If the dough becomes too hard, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before rolling.
How do I store leftover patties?
Leftover patties can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes, or until heated through. They can also be frozen for up to 2 months.
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey is a great lean alternative to beef. Just be mindful that turkey is less fatty, so you might want to add a tablespoon of olive oil to the filling to keep it moist. Adjust the seasoning as needed to suit your taste.
Summary
This Jamaican beef patty recipe delivers a flaky crust and a spicy, savory filling that’s sure to impress. With tips for customization and storage, it’s a versatile dish that caters to all tastes and occasions.