Soo, what are patties anyway?

photo by Cultura Giusta

Ello again! I want to take the time to share with you the history of Palmetreet's #1 treat! Our hottie patties!

If you did not know already, the Caribbean is basically a big ole mixing pot of cultures that is nestled in a blend of unique islands and its shallow waters of central America.

However, many people are unaware of the amazing cultural traditions, food and rich history of each and every island. Many islands, no matter which we speak of, has had its own share of colonialism. Whether that be from the French, Spanish, British or Dutch.

Any piece of the Caribbean was considered a prize to those in big fancy boats. With its' incredibly useful and stunning ports that linked the east to the 'New World'.

I digress however, and I can go on and on! In short, surprisingly enough, patties are just one example from our history, being a product of colonialism.

In the Bahamas, the patties were adapted from the English Cornish pasty. A "handheld meat pie. To be considered authentic, according to the Cornish Pasty Association, it must use diced beef, potato, rutabaga (swede in the U.K.), and onion. Beef skirt steak is the most common cut of meat used."

"Although it is widely believed that we can thank the wives of the Cornish miners for the wonderful invention that is the pasty' its origins do, in fact, date back at least 800 + years ."

It migrated its way with the ships and mixed into the new culture of the Caribbean. Literally adding more heritage with Indian and African spices. Same as the blood of their new creators. As meat pies, we also added the famous Bahamian livestock of chicken and goat meat to the wee pies. My favourite always being the curry chicken.

Hottie patties are staples all Bahamians grow up with and adore. It is also very popular in Jamaica, being said to have actually been brought over from there. But regardless, the pivotal hottie pattie is embedded in Bahamians hearts and bellies. Heck, I even know someone who eats these spicy meaty pastries for breakfast! Who can really blame em dou.

I thank you all for your amazing support. It is one thing to do what you love, but to bring something new to people is the true prize of it all! Hope you enjoy!

Look how similar they all are. The first is the British Cornish pasty and the other are empanadas (from palatablepastime).

Photo of our patties on the Norwegian coast!

Thanks for reading! Snakkes!

🌴