10/20/2025
What is a Jamaican Patty?
• A Jamaican Patty is a turnover filled with meat, poultry, vegetables or fruit.
• It originated from the British Cornish Pasty.
• It is NOT a hamburger patty.
• It’s similar to an empanada, but baked.
• It’s a staple fast food in Jamaica. History of Jamaican Patties: Jamaican patties trace their origins to British pasties
• Africans & Indians added local spices like Scotch bonnet and curry, transforming patties into a Jamaican icon.
• The patty’s golden crust, flavored with turmeric, blends European, African, and Indian culinary traditions.
• Street Food Rise: By the 20th century, patties became a staple in Jamaican markets, sold by vendors as affordable, flavorful meals for workers.
• Global Spread: Jamaican immigrants popularized patties in the UK, Canada, and the US, making them a symbol of Caribbean culture worldwide. Food Delights