Description
There’s nothing quite like biting into a flaky, golden pastry filled with flavorful, spiced beef. Jamaican Beef Patties are a beloved Caribbean street food, perfect for lunch, snacks, or parties. With their vibrant yellow crust and savory filling, these hand pies are as visually striking as they are delicious. Inspired by the bold flavors of Jamaican cuisine and influenced by British meat pies, these patties are seasoned with aromatic spices like thyme, allspice, and Scotch bonnet pepper for a truly authentic bite. Whether you’re familiar with Jamaican food or trying it for the first time, these beef patties are a must-make recipe for any spice lover.
Ingredients
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2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
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1 tsp ground turmeric
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1 tsp curry powder
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1 tsp salt
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1 cup (2 sticks) cold unsalted butter, diced
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½ cup ice water (plus more if needed)
For the beef filling:
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1 lb ground beef
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1 small onion, finely chopped
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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2 green onions, finely sliced
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1 Scotch bonnet pepper, finely chopped (use gloves)
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1 tsp fresh thyme leaves (or ½ tsp dried thyme)
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1 tsp curry powder
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½ tsp ground allspice
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½ tsp paprika
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Salt and black pepper, to taste
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½ cup beef broth or water
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1 tbsp bread crumbs (optional, for thickening)
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1 tbsp oil (for sautéing)
For assembly:
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1 egg (beaten with 1 tbsp water, for egg wash)
Instructions
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Make the pastry dough: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, turmeric, curry powder, and salt. Add cold butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingertips to work it into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add the ice water and mix until a dough forms. Flatten into a disk, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
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Prepare the beef filling: In a large skillet, heat oil over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, green onions, and Scotch bonnet pepper. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until fragrant.
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Add the beef and seasonings: Add ground beef to the pan, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until browned. Stir in thyme, curry powder, allspice, paprika, salt, and pepper.
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Simmer the mixture: Pour in beef broth and bring to a simmer. Cook for 5–7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and liquid to reduce. Stir in breadcrumbs if the mixture is too wet. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature before assembling patties.
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Preheat the oven: Heat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
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Roll out the dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to about ⅛-inch thickness. Use a bowl or cutter (about 5–6 inches in diameter) to cut circles from the dough.
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Fill and seal the patties: Place about 2 tablespoons of beef filling on one half of each dough circle. Fold over the other half to form a half-moon shape. Press the edges with a fork to seal. Repeat with remaining dough and filling.
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Brush and bake: Place patties on the prepared baking sheet. Brush tops with egg wash. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until golden brown.
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Cool slightly and serve: Let the patties cool for a few minutes before serving. They’re delicious on their own or with a side of mango chutney or hot sauce.
- Prep Time: 45 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes