Patty – A “Superfood” Group

For the first time in months and since adopting a whole plant-based diet, I’ve been craving meat. Instead of succumbing to temptation, I’ll take the time to mourn what I’ll miss the most, a Jamaican beef patty. It’s time. (To be clear it’s referred to as
“patty,” almost all the time except when the choice of filling is other than beef.)

I don’t know a Jamaican that doesn’t enjoy a juicy hot patty. As my dad once said, “Patty hot like a one day love.” Patty is the first, second, third and last meal I have upon arrival and prior to departure. It can be enjoyed as a snack, but if you add a second serving and coco bread it’s a meal and daily lunch for some. Two patty and a coco bread have saved many lives. Hence, “superfood.” I’m not at all picky about which of the two popular franchises on the island that I enjoy a patty from, but I do secretly have a preference when given the choice. However, a less than perfect patty is better than no patty. 

Jamaican beef patty is best described as a “beef turnover,” with a flaky, crisp shell filled with meat. A close cousin to the Argentinian empanada. It is at times presented as “fast food” for its readiness, but far from it in its preparation. And like any other bakery, it’s prepared daily. Patty is a superfood not for its nutrients or lack thereof, but for its power to unite us all. Beyond being a popular favorite, it’s fairly inexpensive, easily accessible and travels well. It’s our peanut butter and jelly, your mac and cheese and more, making it the obvious and comforting choice in a jam especially when catering to kids.

Patty is a crowd pleaser at summer day camp, at school fairs, as a friday school lunch and at family outings. One of the funniest things about Jamaicans and patty is that it’s at times a meal before a meal. On the way to a function where a meal is being served it’s very common to pick up patties on the way to the function. In the event the meal prepared is not enjoyable, ready or has run out. It’s as if we’re preparing our stomachs for disappointment, but if we’re proactive we will not be disappointed. While this is less than ideal for many reasons, it illustrates how reliable and trusted a patty is to us. 

I would go as far as saying my family and I have had some of our best meals and biggest smiles over sharing a patty. No fuss, no muss, just contentment all around. Many have suggested that I now try the callaloo, “veggie” patty to satisfy the new limitations of my diet — no thanks. I’m sure it’s good, but my love for the original will never waver. I’ll allow my memory to serve me best. 

Enjoy!