Spicy Jamaican Beef Patties

Jamaican Beef Patties are a savory pastry filled with spiced ground beef, seasoned with traditional Jamaican flavors like allspice, thyme, and Scotch bonnet peppers. The golden, flaky crust holds a flavorful, slightly spicy filling, creating the perfect handheld snack or meal. These patties are a popular street food in Jamaica and bring the bold, vibrant taste of the Caribbean right to your plate.

Ingredients:

For the Filling:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 small onion (finely chopped)
• 2 garlic cloves (minced)
• 1 Scotch bonnet pepper (finely chopped, or adjust to your heat preference)
• 2 tbsp fresh thyme (chopped)
• 1 tsp ground allspice (pimento)
• 1/2 tsp ground cumin
• 1/2 tsp ground paprika
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup beef broth or water
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tbsp vegetable oil for cooking

For the Pastry:

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp turmeric (for color)
• 1/2 cup cold butter (cut into small cubes)
• 1/4 cup cold shortening (or lard)
• 1/4 cup cold water (or as needed)

For the Egg Wash:

• 1 egg (beaten)

Directions:

1. Make the Pastry Dough:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, and turmeric. Add the cold butter and shortening. Use your fingers or a pastry cutter to mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
   • Gradually add cold water, a tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together. Be careful not to overwork the dough.
   • Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow it to firm up.
2. Prepare the Beef Filling:
   • Heat vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and garlic, cooking for about 2-3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
   • Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
   • Stir in the chopped Scotch bonnet pepper, thyme, allspice, cumin, and paprika. Cook for another 2 minutes to allow the spices to release their flavors.
   • Add the breadcrumbs and beef broth (or water), and simmer for 5-7 minutes until the filling thickens and becomes slightly moist. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
   • Remove from heat and let the filling cool slightly.
3. Assemble the Patties:
   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
   • Roll out the chilled dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8-inch thickness. Using a round cutter (about 6 inches in diameter), cut out circles from the dough.
   • Place a spoonful of the beef filling in the center of each dough circle.
   • Fold the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape, sealing the edges by pressing them together with a fork.
   • Place the patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
   • Brush the tops of the patties with the beaten egg for a golden finish.
4. Bake the Patties:
   • Bake the patties in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and flaky.
5. Serve:
   • Serve the spicy Jamaican beef patties hot, and enjoy them as a delicious snack, appetizer, or part of a meal.

These patties are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, offering a spicy, savory kick with every bite!