Jamaican patties

jamaican_patties

Jamaican patties are a tasty and popular snack that have made their way around the world due to their savory filling and flaky pastry crust. They are a traditional pastry that originated in Jamaica and are now enjoyed by many people around the globe.

Commonly referred to as a “patty” or “Jamaican patty,” this pastry snack is a filling meal on its own or can be eaten as a side with meals. They are commonly found in Jamaican restaurants or in Caribbean grocery stores that specialize in authentic Jamaican foods.

The pastry crust is a combination of flour, salt, and butter rolled into a thin layer, and then filled with a savory meat and vegetable filling. The most popular filling is made of ground beef, which are then seasoned with garlic, thyme, scallions, pimento, and other spices. Other variations of this snack include fillings made with chicken, vegetables, or seafood.

Jamaican patties are great for any time of day, and are especially popular for breakfast, lunch, or as a snack to enjoy with friends and family. They are often enjoyed with a side of hot sauce or ketchup, but can be paired with any of your favorite condiments as well.

What makes these patties different from other pastries is the use of a yellow-colorant powder, which is added to the dough. It is this ingredient that gives them their signature mouthwatering golden crust. The meat filling, on the other hand, is a blend of herbs and spices, which makes the snack highly aromatic, juicy, and flavorful.

Jamaican patties are so delicious that they have become a major part of Caribbean cuisine, and have even been replicated by other countries like Trinidad, Canada, and the United States. Each country adds its unique twist, but the Jamaican patty remains the original.

The origination of Jamaican patties is still a matter of debate, but one theory is that the snack was first introduced to Jamaica by the Spaniards who settled on the island during the 15th and 16th century. They brought with them their own pastries, which the locals then modified over time to fit their palate.

Another theory is that the pastry was originally brought from West Africa during the days of slavery. The slaves modified what was originally a West African pastry to fit the ingredients that were available in Jamaica, making it the iconic Jamaican patty.

Whatever the origin may be, what is clear is how much Jamaican patties are enjoyed around the world as a delicious snack. They remain an essential part of Jamaican culture, and are a must-try for anyone visiting Jamaica.

So, if you’re ready to indulge in the savory and aromatic flavors of a Jamaican patty, get your baking supplies out because we’ve got the recipe for you! It’s easy to make and will have your friends and family begging for seconds.

Here is a recipe for Jamaican patties:

Ingredients:

For the pastry:

  • 4 cups of all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon of salt
  • 2 teaspoons of Turmeric Powder
  • 2 tablespoons of vegetable shortening
  • 1 cup of cold water

For the filling:

  • 1 yellow onion, chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 teaspoon of ginger, grated
  • 1lb of ground meat (beef, lamb or chicken)
  • 2 tablespoons of all purpose seasoning
  • 2 teaspoons of dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper
  • 1/2 cup of beef or chicken stock
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil

Directions:

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, and turmeric powder. Mix until all the ingredients are fully incorporated.
  2. Add the vegetable shortening and use your fingers to mix it into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
  3. Slowly add in the cold water and mix until you have a smooth and elastic dough.
  4. Cover the dough with a damp kitchen towel and let it rest for at least 20 minutes.
  5. While the dough is resting, make the filling. In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
  6. Add the chopped onions, garlic, and ginger to the skillet and cook until softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
  7. Add the ground meat to the skillet and cook until browned, about 8-10 minutes.
  8. Add the all-purpose seasoning, dried thyme, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper to the skillet and stir until all the spices are fully incorporated.
  9. Pour in the beef or chicken stock and simmer the mixture for 15-20 minutes, or until most of the liquid has evaporated. The filling should be moist but not runny.
  10. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
  11. On a floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/8 inch thickness.
  12. Using a circular cutter, cut the dough into circles that are about 5-6 inches in diameter.
  13. Spoon about 2-3 tablespoons of the filling onto one half of the circle.
  14. Fold the other half of the circle over the filling and crimp the edges together using a fork or your fingers.
  15. Place the patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
  16. Serve immediately and enjoy!