A Jamaican patty is a flaky, golden-yellow pastry filled with a spiced meat or vegetable mixture. It’s a popular street food and snack in Jamaica, known for its flavorful, well-seasoned filling wrapped in a crispy crust made with turmeric or curry powder for color. The filling is typically seasoned with ingredients like Scotch bonnet peppers, thyme, garlic, and allspice.
Types of Jamaican Patties
There are many variations of Jamaican patties, including:
- Beef Patty – The most traditional type, filled with spiced ground beef.
- Chicken Patty – Made with curried or jerk-seasoned chicken.
- Vegetable Patty – Includes fillings like callaloo, cabbage, carrots, or mixed vegetables.
- Saltfish Patty – Filled with salted cod cooked with onions, peppers, and spices.
- Lobster Patty – A luxurious option with seasoned lobster meat.
- Shrimp Patty – Stuffed with spiced shrimp.
- Cheese Patty – A twist on the classic, sometimes combined with beef or chicken.
- Lentil or Tofu Patty – A plant-based option for vegans and vegetarians
- Spinach Patty – Another plant-based option for vegans and vegetarians
- Callaloo Patty – Jamaica’s favorite green vegetable for vegans and vegetarians
Patties are often eaten on their own or sandwiched inside coco bread, a soft, slightly sweet bread, for an even heartier meal.
