Jamaican Beef Patties (Aka Meat Pies or Pasties)

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 teaspoons curry powder
• 1 dash salt
• 1/4 cup margarine
• 1/4 cup shortening
• 1/3 cup water

Meat Filling

• 2 tablespoons margarine
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 1 teaspoon curry powder
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon pepper
• 1/2 cup beef broth
• 1/2 cup dry breadcrumbs
• 1 egg, beaten

Directions

1. 1

   Make the crust: Combine flour, 1 1/2 teaspoons curry powder, and pinch of salt. Cut in 1/4 cup margarine and shortening until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in water until mixture forms a ball. Do not overstir; that makes tough crust. Shape dough into a log, and cut into 10 equal sections. Roll each section into a six inch circle (approximately 1/8 inch thick). Set aside.

2. 2

   Next, prepare the filling.: Melt margarine in a skillet over medium heat. Saute onion until soft and translucent. Stir in ground beef. Season with 1 teaspoon curry powder, thyme, 1 teaspoon salt, and pepper. Cook until beef is browned, stirring constantly. Stir in beef broth and bread crumbs. Simmer until liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat.

3. 3

   Now make the patties: Spoon some filling into each pastry circle. Fold over and press edges together, making a half circle. Use a fork to press edges, and brush the top of each patty with beaten egg.

4. 4

   Bake in preheated 375 degree oven for 25 - 30 minutes, or until golden brown.

5. 5

   NOTE: If you have the time and organization, it might be best to make the filling in advance, long enough to cool down before fillng the pastry. Otherwise, it might melt the pastry somewhat. Just a thought from a review on another recipe.