Belizean Meat Patties

ground beef

🥗Healthier: ground turkey

💰Cheaper: ground pork

Ground turkey is leaner while ground pork is often less expensive.

butter

🥗Healthier: coconut oil

💰Cheaper: margarine

Coconut oil offers a healthier fat option, while margarine can be more budget-friendly.

flour

🥗Healthier: whole wheat flour

💰Cheaper: all-purpose flour

Whole wheat flour adds fiber and nutrients.

hot sauce

🥗Healthier: salsa

💰Cheaper: ketchup

Salsa provides flavor with fewer calories, while ketchup is often cheaper.

Mix 2 1/4 cups flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, and 3/4 teaspoon salt in a bowl using a fork.

Cut in 1/2 cup shortening using a pastry cutter until crumbly; you can also use two knives or your hands.

Add 1 beaten egg and mix it in.

Pour in 2/3 cup of water and mix until combined, then use your hands to knead for a couple of minutes until it sticks together.

Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate until ready to use.

In a skillet over medium heat, add 1 pound of ground beef and cook until browned.

Add 2 cloves of chopped garlic, 1/4 cup chopped onion, 1/2 cup chopped sweet peppers, and 1 chopped roma tomato; stir to combine.

Cook the filling for 20 minutes, stirring often, and do not drain the fat.

Stir in 1/4 cup chopped cilantro and remove the pan from heat to cool.

Roll the dough into a log and cut it into equal pieces, about 12 pieces.

Flour your rolling pin and roll each piece into a circle about 5-6 inches in diameter.

Place 2 spoons of the meat mixture on one half of the dough circle and top with shredded cheddar cheese.

Wet the edge of the dough with water, fold it over, and press down to seal, ensuring no filling escapes.

Use a fork to press down on the edges for a double seal.

Repeat the process for all pieces of dough.

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the patties for 25 minutes.

Let the patties cool on a wire rack after baking.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Allergens