Jamaican Patties
These are delicious curry-flavored pastries found in the Caribbean islands, particularly in Jamaica. Great as a snack or as a Jamaican meal compliment. I also enjoy them with a spinach, corn, and bean salad. I have used pre-packaged Crescent rolls (2 cylinders rolled out and cut into 10 circles) or phyllo dough (15 sheets cut lengthwise to make 30 triangles) as a time saver. Not as good or as spicy as the handmade pastry, but sometimes there is just not enough time. Store in the fridge for up to 5 days and reheat in the microwave on medium heat.
These are delicious curry-flavored pastries found in the Caribbean islands, particularly in Jamaica. Great as a snack or as a Jamaican meal compliment. I also enjoy them with a spinach, corn, and bean salad. I have used pre-packaged Crescent rolls (2 cylinders rolled out and cut into 10 circles) or phyllo dough (15 sheets cut lengthwise to make 30 triangles) as a time saver. Not as good or as spicy as the handmade pastry, but sometimes there is just not enough time. Store in the fridge for up to 5 days and reheat in the microwave on medium heat.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/3 cup water
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon curry powder
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/4 cup shortening
- 1 large onion finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon curry powder
- 1/2 cup chicken stock
- 1/4 cup margarine
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 2 green onions finely chopped
- 1 dash salt
- 1/2 cup dry breadcrumbs
- 4 -6 garlic cloves finely chopped
- 1 lb lean lean ground beef
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin powder or 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- Carbohydrate 23.4245746913483 g
- Cholesterol 2.63334290304662 mg
- Fat 9.04485260147547 g
- Fiber 1.26923668601462 g
- Protein 3.77670600384613 g
- Saturated Fat 2.53406338918592 g
- Serving Size 1 1 patties, 4-6 serving(s) (133g)
- Sodium 427.310683920194 mg
- Sugar 22.1553380053337 g
- Trans Fat 0.509873169241908 g
- Calories 191 calories
Step-by-step
- FILLING: Heat oil in skillet over medium heat. Add onions and cook for 10 minutes stirring occasionally until soft and translucent.
- Add garlic, cook 2 minutes.
- Add beef, curry, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook until browned stirring constantly.
- Stir in stock and breadcrumbs.
- Simmer until liquid is absorbed (approx. 10 minutes). Texture should be soft and moist.
- Add green onions.
- PASTRY: In a large bowl, combine flour, turmeric, curry, and salt.
- Cut in 1/4 cup margarine and shortening until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Stir in water until mixture forms a ball.
- Shape dough into a log, and cut into 10 equal sections.
- Roll each section into a six-inch circle (approximately 1/8 inch thick).
- Cover with damp towel.
- Spoon equal amounts of filling into each pastry circle.
- Fold over making a half circle and press edges together.
- Use a fork to press edges, and brush the top of each patty with beaten egg.
- Cook for 25-30 minutes.
A Taste of Jamaica: My Jamaican Patty Journey
The aroma of warm spices, the satisfying crunch of pastry, the explosion of savory flavors – that's the magic of Jamaican patties. These aren't just pastries; they're a taste of home, a culinary adventure, a quick lunch, and a comforting snack all rolled into one. My love for Jamaican patties began, not in the vibrant streets of Kingston, but in my own kitchen, fueled by a craving for something both familiar and exciting. I'd always been a home cook, experimenting with recipes from across the globe, always aiming to recreate the flavors I'd encountered in my travels (or longed to experience!). And Jamaican patties perfectly exemplified that culinary fusion, the blend of bold spices, tender meat, and flaky pastry creating an experience that’s as much a feast for the senses as it is for the stomach.
My first attempt was, shall we say, an adventure. The pastry was more like a hockey puck, and the filling, though flavorful, lacked that perfect balance of spice and richness. But I persevered, fueled by the determination of any good home cook – and a lingering memory of the perfect patty I'd once enjoyed at a street food stall in Montego Bay. I spent countless hours researching, experimenting, tweaking ingredient ratios, and perfecting the techniques, each failed attempt bringing me closer to the ultimate Jamaican patty experience. There was something wonderfully cathartic about kneading the dough, shaping the patties, and watching them turn golden brown in the oven – a creative outlet, a mindful process, a quiet moment in the day's busy schedule.
Over time, I refined my recipe, incorporating tips and tricks from various sources – from old family recipes to online forums, from the wisdom of Jamaican friends and family to my own culinary intuition. I discovered the crucial role of fresh spices in unlocking the true depth of flavor, the importance of properly browning the meat to ensure a rich and savory filling, and the delicate balance needed between a flaky pastry and a moist filling. The process of making Jamaican patties became more than just a recipe; it was a journey of discovery, a celebration of creativity, a way to connect with a culture I deeply admired, and a way to share a piece of Jamaica with my friends and family.
The beauty of Jamaican patties is their versatility. Whether you prefer the classic beef filling, the succulent flavors of chicken, or the richness of lamb, the possibilities are endless. And while store-bought pastry dough might be a tempting shortcut for busy weeknights, the reward of making your own pastry from scratch is immeasurable. It’s a labor of love, a testament to your dedication, a culinary adventure that transforms a simple snack into a moment of true indulgence.
The texture—that perfect blend of crispy, flaky pastry and tender, succulent meat—is a culinary masterpiece. The taste—a symphony of bold spices, sweet onions, and savory meat—is an unforgettable journey for the taste buds. And the versatility—from a quick lunch to a satisfying snack to a centerpiece of a festive gathering—makes Jamaican patties a culinary chameleon.
More than just a recipe, the Jamaican patty represents a culinary adventure. It's a journey of exploration and discovery, of perfecting techniques and embracing creativity, and of sharing a taste of culture and tradition with the world. So, gather your ingredients, put on some upbeat reggae music, and embark on your own Jamaican patty journey. The flavors, the aromas, and the satisfaction of creating something delicious await.
Beyond the culinary aspect, making Jamaican patties has become a cherished ritual, a chance to connect with loved ones, and a reminder of the joy found in creating something from scratch. The rhythmic kneading of the dough, the careful shaping of each patty, and the anticipation of that first bite—these moments are a testament to the simple pleasures of home cooking. It’s in these moments that I find a profound connection not just to the food, but to the legacy of Jamaican cuisine, to the women who have shared their recipes and stories, and to the community that gathers around a table laden with these delicious little pockets of flavor.
Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, I urge you to try making Jamaican patties. It’s a rewarding experience that goes beyond the simple act of cooking. It’s a culinary adventure, a chance to explore new flavors and cultures, and a way to create something delicious and meaningful to share with those you love. So, embrace the spice, embrace the adventure, and let the taste of Jamaica transport you.
