Name: Jamaican Beef Patties Recipe
Prep time: 1 h 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 2 h
Yield: 12
Cuisine: Caribbean
Ingredients: For Pastry:; 450 g self-rising flour; 2 tsp sugar; 1½ tsp kosher salt; 3 tbsp ground turmeric; 2 tbsp butter; 1 cup ice water; milk; For Filling:; 1 lb Ground Beef; 1 medium onion; 1 scotch bonnet pepper; ½ tsp garlic powder; ½ tsp kosher salt; 1 tsp fresh ground pepper; 1 beef stock cube; ⅔ cup boiling water; 1 tsp sweet paprika; ½ tsp allspice; 1 tsp breadcrumbs; 2 tbsp dark soy sauce

Jamaican beef patties are a beloved street food, featuring a savory meat filling encased in a golden, flaky pastry. This recipe captures the authentic flavors of Jamaica with a delicious blend of spices and a unique, turmeric-infused crust.

Photos of Jamaican Beef Patties Recipe

When preparing this recipe, some ingredients might not be commonly found in your pantry. The scotch bonnet pepper adds a distinct heat and flavor that sets these patties apart. Ensure you have ground turmeric for the bright yellow pastry, and dark soy sauce for a rich depth to the meat filling.

Ingredients for Jamaican Beef Patties

Self-rising flour: Provides the base for the pastry dough.

Sugar: Adds a subtle sweetness to the pastry.

Kosher salt: Enhances the flavors of both the dough and the filling.

Ground turmeric: Gives the pastry its distinctive yellow color and earthy flavor.

Butter: Helps create a flaky texture in the pastry.

Ice water: Used to bring the dough together.

Milk: Helps to seal the pastry edges.

Ground beef: The main protein for the filling.

Onion: Adds sweetness and depth to the filling.

Scotch bonnet pepper: Provides heat and a unique flavor profile typical of Jamaican cuisine.

Garlic powder: Adds a mild, aromatic flavor to the filling.

Fresh ground pepper: Adds a touch of heat and flavor.

Beef stock cube: Enriches the filling with concentrated beef flavor.

Boiling water: Dissolves the beef stock cube.

Sweet paprika: Adds a mild, sweet flavor and vibrant color.

Allspice: Provides a warm, aromatic note typical of Jamaican seasoning.

Breadcrumbs: Adds body to the filling, helping to absorb excess moisture.

Dark soy sauce: Adds depth and umami to the filling.

One reader, Hugibert Hylton says:

This Jamaican beef patties recipe is fantastic! The pastry is perfectly flaky, and the filling is bursting with flavor. The scotch bonnet pepper adds just the right amount of heat. Easy to follow and absolutely delicious. A new favorite in our household!

Hugibert Hylton

Techniques Required for Making Jamaican Beef Patties

How to rub butter into dry ingredients: Use your fingertips to mix the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. How to dissolve a beef stock cube: Add the beef stock cube to boiling water and stir until completely dissolved. How to roll out dough: Dust your work surface and rolling pin with flour, then use the rolling pin to flatten the dough to the desired thickness. How to fold dough into a square: After rolling the dough flat, fold it into a square shape, then roll it out again. Repeat this process 2 to 3 times. How to cut dough using a template: Place an upturned bowl or lid on the dough and use a sharp knife to cut around it to create circles. How to seal pastry edges: Brush a little milk or water around the edge of the dough, fold it over, and press the edges together. Use a fork to crimp the edges for a secure seal. How to poke steam holes: Use a fork to poke a few holes on top of the pastry to allow steam to escape during baking.

How To Make Jamaican Beef Patties

Jamaican beef patties have a beef filling seasoned with spicy peppers, paprika & allspice. The meat is then wrapped in a buttery, turmeric-flavored crust.

Preparation: 1 hour 30 minutes

Cooking: 30 minutes

Total: 2 hours

Serves:

Ingredients

For Pastry:

450gself-rising flour,(about 3 cups plus 2 tbsp), plus more for dusting
2tspsugar
1½tspkosher salt
3tbspground turmeric
2tbspbutter,chilled, diced small
1cupice water,plus 2 tbsp
milk,or water, for brushing

For Filling:

1lbground beef,(93% lean)
1medium onion,minced
1scotch bonnet pepper,de-seeded and diced
½tspgarlic powder
½tspkosher salt
1tspfresh ground pepper
1beef stock cube,(such as Maggi)
⅔cupboiling water
1tspsweet paprika
½tspallspice
1tspbreadcrumbs,or flour
2tbspdark soy sauce,or worchestershire sauce, for browning

Instructions

Sift the flour into a bowl then stir in the sugar, salt and turmeric. Add the butter and rub them into the dry ingredients until it acquires a crumbly texture.
Gradually add ice water to create a dough. Roll the dough into a ball, wrap in cling wrap and chill in the fridge 1 hour.
Meanwhile, make the filling. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the meat and cook for about 5 minutes, breaking up with a wooden spoon.
Add the onion and scotch bonnet and cook 3 minutes, until soft. Add the garlic powder, salt and black pepper.
Dissolve beef cube in boiling water and add to the skillet with the paprika, allspice, breadcrumb or flour and the soy sauce or other sauce. Stir and simmer for 20 minutes, then set aside to cool completely.
When ready to cook, preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
Take the chilled dough out of the fridge. Dust work surface and rolling pin with flour so the dough doesn’t stick.
Roll out the dough, when flat fold it into a square then roll again. Repeat 2 to 3 times to create a traditional patty crust.
Roll the dough out to about 1/16th thickness.
Place an upturned bowl or lid about 6 inches in diameter on top and carefully cut around it with a sharp knife. There should be 12 total, with a 6-inch size.
Divide the meat mixture between each, about 3 tablespoons each and spoon it onto one side of the circle.
Brush a little milk (or water) around the edge of the dough and carefully fold the patty over so the edges meet. Press and seal them, then use a fork and press around the edges.
Poke a few holes on top with the fork to make steam holes and place on a baking sheet. Bake for 25 minutes, until golden.

Nutrition

Calories: 264.05kcal
Fat: 10.01g
Saturated Fat: 4.21g
Trans Fat: 0.52g
Monounsaturated Fat: 3.90g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.47g
Carbohydrates: 31.73g
Fiber: 1.91g
Sugar: 1.36g
Protein: 10.93g
Cholesterol: 31.94mg
Sodium: 695.13mg
Calcium: 144.77mg
Potassium: 236.08mg
Iron: 3.93mg
Vitamin A: 22.75µg
Vitamin C: 0.96mg

Crucial Technique for Perfecting Jamaican Beef Patties

When making the pastry dough, ensure the butter is cold and cut into small pieces before incorporating it into the flour. This helps create a flaky texture. Additionally, when adding the ice water, do so gradually and mix just until the dough comes together to avoid overworking it, which can make the pastry tough.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Jamaican Beef Patties

Prepare the filling in advance: Cook the ground beef mixture a day ahead and store it in the fridge. This allows the flavors to meld and saves time on the day of baking.

Use a food processor: Quickly combine the flour, sugar, salt, and turmeric with the butter using a food processor to achieve a crumbly texture faster.

Pre-cut dough circles: Roll out and cut the dough circles in advance, then stack them with parchment paper in between and refrigerate.

Batch baking: Bake multiple patties at once by using multiple baking sheets to maximize oven space and reduce overall cooking time.

Substitute Ingredients For Jamaican Beef Patties Recipe

self-rising flour - Substitute with all-purpose flour mixed with baking powder: Mix 450 g of all-purpose flour with 2 tsp of baking powder. This will mimic the leavening effect of self-rising flour.
sugar - Substitute with honey: Use 1½ tsp of honey for a similar sweetness, but reduce the ice water slightly to balance the moisture.
kosher salt - Substitute with sea salt: Use the same amount of sea salt for a similar flavor profile.
ground turmeric - Substitute with curry powder: Use 3 tbsp of curry powder to achieve a similar color and a slightly different but complementary flavor.
butter - Substitute with margarine: Use the same amount of margarine for a similar texture and taste.
ice water - Substitute with cold milk: Use 1 cup of cold milk to add richness to the dough.
milk - Substitute with egg wash: Use a beaten egg mixed with a little water to achieve a similar golden finish on the pastry.
ground beef - Substitute with ground turkey: Use 1 lb of ground turkey for a leaner option with a similar texture.
onion - Substitute with shallots: Use 2 medium shallots for a milder and slightly sweeter flavor.
scotch bonnet pepper - Substitute with habanero pepper: Use 1 habanero pepper for a similar heat level and flavor.
garlic powder - Substitute with fresh garlic: Use 1 clove of minced fresh garlic for a more intense garlic flavor.
kosher salt - Substitute with sea salt: Use the same amount of sea salt for a similar flavor profile.
fresh ground pepper - Substitute with white pepper: Use the same amount of white pepper for a slightly different but still complementary flavor.
beef stock cube - Substitute with chicken stock cube: Use 1 chicken stock cube for a slightly different but still rich flavor.
boiling water - Substitute with hot beef broth: Use ⅔ cup of hot beef broth to enhance the beef flavor.
sweet paprika - Substitute with smoked paprika: Use 1 tsp of smoked paprika for a deeper, smoky flavor.
allspice - Substitute with cinnamon and cloves: Use a mix of ¼ tsp cinnamon and ¼ tsp ground cloves to mimic the warm, spicy flavor of allspice.
breadcrumbs - Substitute with crushed crackers: Use 1 tsp of crushed crackers for a similar texture and binding effect.
dark soy sauce - Substitute with regular soy sauce: Use 2 tbsp of regular soy sauce for a similar umami flavor, though it will be slightly less rich.

Presenting Jamaican Beef Patties for Maximum Appeal

Serve smaller portion sizes: Present the Jamaican beef patties in a more refined manner by making them smaller, bite-sized versions. This allows for a more elegant presentation and easier consumption.
Use decoration: Garnish the plate with finely chopped fresh herbs such as cilantro or parsley to add a burst of color and freshness.
Accompany with a dipping sauce: Serve the patties with a side of tamarind chutney or mango salsa to complement the spicy filling and add a touch of sweetness.
Plate on a stylish dish: Use a sleek, modern plate to enhance the visual appeal. A black or dark-colored plate can make the golden turmeric-infused pastry stand out.
Add texture contrast: Place a small mound of crispy plantain chips or fried yucca on the side to provide a contrasting texture to the soft pastry.
Create height: Stack the patties slightly on top of each other or lean them against a small mound of microgreens to create visual interest and height on the plate.
Drizzle with sauce: Lightly drizzle a spicy aioli or scotch bonnet pepper sauce around the plate for an artistic touch and an extra layer of flavor.
Incorporate edible flowers: Add a few edible flowers like nasturtiums or pansies to the plate for a pop of color and a touch of elegance.
Use a ring mold: Shape the ground beef filling into perfect circles using a ring mold before placing it inside the pastry. This ensures uniformity and a professional look.
Serve with a side salad: Accompany the patties with a small, well-dressed mixed greens salad to add freshness and balance to the dish.

Essential Tools for Making Jamaican Beef Patties

Sifter: Used to sift the flour, ensuring it is light and free of lumps.
Mixing bowl: A large bowl to combine the dry ingredients and later to mix in the butter and water.
Pastry cutter: Helps to cut the butter into the flour mixture, creating a crumbly texture.
Measuring spoons: Essential for accurately measuring the sugar, salt, and turmeric.
Measuring cup: Used to measure the ice water accurately.
Cling wrap: To wrap the dough and chill it in the fridge.
Large skillet: For cooking the ground beef and other filling ingredients.
Wooden spoon: To break up the meat and stir the filling mixture.
Sharp knife: For cutting the dough into circles.
Rolling pin: To roll out the dough to the desired thickness.
Flour sifter: To dust the work surface and rolling pin, preventing the dough from sticking.
Bowl or lid (6 inches in diameter): Used as a template to cut the dough into circles.
Fork: To press and seal the edges of the patties and to poke steam holes on top.
Baking sheet: To place the patties on for baking.
Oven: Preheated to 350 degrees Fahrenheit for baking the patties.
Pastry brush: To brush milk or water around the edge of the dough before folding.

Storing and Freezing Jamaican Beef Patties for Later

Allow the jamaican beef patties to cool completely before storing or freezing. This will prevent them from becoming soggy or losing their crispy texture.
To store in the refrigerator, place the cooled patties in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. They will keep in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
To freeze, wrap each patty individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, making sure there are no air pockets. Place the wrapped patties in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag, label with the date, and freeze for up to 2-3 months.
To reheat refrigerated patties, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the patties on a baking sheet. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.
To reheat frozen patties, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the frozen patties on a baking sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through and crispy. Alternatively, you can thaw the patties in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
For a quick reheat, you can also use the microwave. Place the patty on a microwave-safe plate and heat on high for 30-60 seconds, or until heated through. However, keep in mind that microwaving may result in a softer, less crispy crust.

How To Reheat Leftover Jamaican Beef Patties

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover jamaican beef patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the patties with a little milk or beaten egg to help restore their golden color. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and the crust is crisp again. This method is best for maintaining the flaky texture of the pastry.
For a quicker option, you can use a toaster oven. Set the temperature to 350°F (175°C) and place the patties on the wire rack. Heat for 5-7 minutes, or until warmed through and the crust is crispy. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
If you're in a hurry, you can use a microwave. Place the patties on a microwave-safe plate and heat on high for 30-45 seconds. If not heated through, continue microwaving in 15-second intervals until warm. Note that the crust may become soft and lose its flakiness with this method.
For a stovetop option, heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat. Lightly grease the surface with butter or oil. Place the patties on the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until heated through and the crust is crispy. This method can help restore some of the crispiness lost during refrigeration.
If you have an air fryer, preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the patties in the basket, ensuring they don't overlap. Cook for 3-5 minutes, or until heated through and the crust is crispy. This method is excellent for restoring the flaky texture of the pastry without adding extra oil.

Interesting Trivia About Jamaican Beef Patties

A random fact about this recipe is that Jamaican beef patties are a popular street food in Jamaica and are often enjoyed as a quick snack or meal. The pastry is distinctively yellow due to the addition of turmeric, which not only adds color but also a subtle flavor.

Is Making Jamaican Beef Patties at Home Cost-Effective?

This Jamaican beef patties recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The ingredients like ground beef, onion, and self-rising flour are relatively affordable and commonly found in most kitchens. The use of spices such as turmeric, allspice, and paprika adds a burst of flavor without significantly increasing the cost. For a household of 4, the approximate cost would be around $15-$20 USD. Overall Verdict: 8/10.

Are Jamaican Beef Patties Healthy or Unhealthy?

This Jamaican beef patty recipe, while delicious, is not particularly healthy. The pastry is made with self-rising flour, which is high in refined carbohydrates and low in fiber. The filling contains ground beef, which is high in saturated fat, and the recipe calls for added salt, sugar, and butter, all of which can contribute to health issues if consumed in excess.

However, there are some positive aspects to the recipe. The filling includes onion and scotch bonnet pepper, which provide some vitamins and minerals. The recipe also uses a small amount of breadcrumbs, which can help bind the filling together without adding too many extra calories.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Use whole wheat flour instead of self-rising flour to increase the fiber content and reduce the refined carbohydrates
Reduce the amount of salt and sugar used in the recipe, or eliminate them altogether
Use lean ground beef or substitute with ground turkey or chicken to reduce the saturated fat content
Add more vegetables to the filling, such as diced carrots or bell peppers, to increase the nutrient density
Use a healthier fat source, such as olive oil, instead of butter in the pastry dough
Bake the patties instead of frying them to reduce the overall fat content

By making these adjustments, you can enjoy the flavors of Jamaican beef patties while also making them a bit healthier. Remember, moderation is key, and even with healthier substitutions, these patties should still be enjoyed as an occasional treat rather than an everyday staple in your diet.

Editor's Thoughts on This Delightful Jamaican Dish

This Jamaican beef patties recipe is a delightful blend of flavors and textures. The turmeric-infused pastry offers a vibrant color and subtle earthiness, while the filling, spiced with scotch bonnet pepper and allspice, delivers an authentic Caribbean kick. The use of breadcrumbs ensures a cohesive filling, and the soy sauce adds depth. The step of folding and rolling the dough multiple times is crucial for achieving the traditional flaky crust. Overall, this recipe is well-balanced and promises a deliciously spicy and savory treat, perfect for those looking to explore Jamaican cuisine.

Enhance Your Jamaican Beef Patties Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Mango Salsa: Add a burst of tropical flavor with a vibrant mango salsa. The sweetness of ripe mangoes combined with the tang of lime juice and the heat of jalapeños will perfectly complement the savory Jamaican beef patties. This refreshing side will transport you straight to the Caribbean.

Coconut Rice: Infuse your meal with the creamy richness of coconut rice. The subtle sweetness of coconut milk paired with fragrant jasmine rice creates a delightful contrast to the spicy beef filling. Garnish with a sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes for an extra touch of paradise.

Plantain Chips: Crispy plantain chips add a delightful crunch to your meal. These golden slices of plantains are lightly salted and fried to perfection, offering a savory snack that pairs wonderfully with the hearty beef patties. Serve with a side of spicy dipping sauce for an extra kick.

Jerk Corn on the Cob: Elevate your corn on the cob with a jerk seasoning twist. Grilled to perfection, the smoky and spicy flavors of jerk seasoning will enhance the overall experience of your Jamaican feast. A squeeze of lime juice over the top adds a zesty finish.

Pineapple Coleslaw: Brighten up your plate with a colorful pineapple coleslaw. The crisp cabbage and carrots mixed with juicy pineapple chunks and a tangy vinaigrette create a refreshing and crunchy side. This vibrant salad will balance the rich flavors of the beef patties beautifully.

Similar Recipes to Try If You Love Jamaican Beef Patties

Jamaican Jerk Chicken: Experience the fiery flavors of Jamaica with this grilled chicken dish marinated in a blend of spices, scotch bonnet peppers, and herbs. Perfectly paired with rice and peas.

Caribbean Curried Goat: Dive into a rich and hearty Caribbean classic. Tender pieces of goat meat are slow-cooked in a fragrant curry sauce with potatoes and carrots, served over steamed rice.

Trinidadian Doubles: A popular street food from Trinidad and Tobago, these delicious sandwiches feature spiced chickpeas nestled between two pieces of soft, fried flatbread. Top with tamarind sauce and cucumber chutney.

Bajan Fish Cakes: Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, these fish cakes from Barbados are made with salted cod, herbs, and spices. Serve with a tangy pepper sauce for an extra kick.

Haitian Griot: Savor the taste of Haiti with this flavorful dish of marinated and fried pork chunks. Typically served with pikliz (a spicy pickled vegetable relish) and fried plantains.

Appetizers and Desserts That Complement Jamaican Beef Patties

Appetizers:

Stuffed Plantain Cups: Transform ripe plantains into delightful cups filled with a savory mixture of black beans, corn, and avocado. The natural sweetness of the plantains pairs beautifully with the zesty filling, creating a harmonious balance of flavors. Garnish with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of cilantro for an eye-catching presentation. These bite-sized delights are perfect for starting any meal with a burst of Caribbean flair.

Jerk Chicken Skewers: Bring the bold flavors of Jamaica to your table with these jerk chicken skewers. Marinate tender pieces of chicken in a spicy jerk seasoning blend, then grill to perfection. Serve with a refreshing pineapple salsa that adds a sweet and tangy contrast to the spicy chicken. These skewers are a fantastic way to introduce your guests to the vibrant and robust tastes of Jamaican cuisine.

Desserts:

Chocolate Lava Cake: Imagine a decadent chocolate lava cake with a molten center that oozes rich, velvety chocolate when you cut into it. Pair this indulgent treat with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of raspberry coulis. The contrast between the warm, gooey chocolate and the cold, creamy ice cream creates a symphony of textures and flavors that will leave your taste buds dancing. For an added touch of elegance, garnish with a sprinkle of powdered sugar and a few fresh mint leaves.

Mango Coconut Tart: Transport your senses to a tropical paradise with a mango coconut tart. The buttery pastry crust is filled with a luscious coconut cream and topped with slices of ripe, juicy mango. A hint of lime zest adds a refreshing citrus note that perfectly balances the sweetness of the mango. Serve this vibrant tart with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes for a dessert that's as beautiful as it is delicious. This tropical delight is sure to impress your guests and provide a delightful end to any meal.

Why trust this Jamaican Beef Patties Recipe:

This recipe captures the authentic flavors of Jamaican beef patties with its perfectly spiced ground beef filling and flaky turmeric-infused pastry. The use of scotch bonnet pepper adds a genuine kick, while the allspice and dark soy sauce bring depth to the dish. Detailed instructions ensure a foolproof process, making it accessible for both novice and experienced cooks. Trust this recipe for a true taste of Jamaica.

Want to share your experience making these delicious Jamaican Beef Patties or have any tips to perfect the recipe? Join the discussion in the Recipe Sharing forum and let's talk about this flavorful dish!

FAQ:

How spicy are these Jamaican beef patties?

These patties have a nice kick to them, thanks to the scotch bonnet pepper. If you’re sensitive to heat, you can use less pepper or substitute with a milder one.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can make the dough a day in advance and keep it wrapped in the fridge. Just make sure to let it come to room temperature a bit before rolling it out.

Can I freeze the patties?

Yes, you can freeze them either before or after baking. If freezing before baking, just add a few extra minutes to the baking time. If freezing after, reheat them in the oven until warmed through.

What can I use instead of self-rising flour?

If you don’t have self-rising flour, you can make your own by combining 450 g of all-purpose flour with 2 teaspoons of baking powder and 1/2 teaspoon of salt.

Can I use a different type of meat for the filling?

Definitely! Ground chicken, turkey, or even a meat substitute can work well. Just adjust the seasoning to taste since different meats can have different flavors.