Jamaican Beef Patties

Directions

1. Note: Scotch Bonnet pepper is a very warm pepper native to Jamaica and the Caribbean islands. Try to find it at your area's West Indian grocery stores, or possibly use jalapenos as a substitute. Also known as habinera peppers.
2. 1. Sift the flour and salt into a large bowl. Cut in the shortening and margarine till crumbly. Add in the cool water to make a stiff dough. Lightly flour a wooden cutting board and roll out the dough till about 1/8 inch thick. Cut out 8 inch circles. Cover with wax paper or possibly damp cloth till ready to use.
3. 2. In a heavy skillet, heat the margarine and saute/fry the onion and Scotch Bonnet Pepper till they become limp. Add in the grnd beef, salt, pepper, curry pwdr and thyme and mix well. Brown the meat for about 10 min, stirring occasionaly.
4. 3. Add in the breadcrumbs and stock and combine all the ingredients well. Cover the skillet and simmer for about 10 to 15 min, stirring occasionally. When all the liquids have been absorbed, the filling is ready. It should be moist but not watery. Remove the skillet from the stove and preheat oven to 400 degrees F.
5. 4. Uncover the dough circles and place 2 to 3 Tbsp. of filling on halfof each. Moisten the edges of the dough with water and fold the dough circle over the meat filling. Healthy pinch the edges closed with a fork. Lightly brush the pastry with a mix of the egg and water. Bake on a lightly greased baking sheet for 30 to 40 min or possibly till the pastry is golden.
6. Yield: 10 patties.