Patties (christmas Style)
Street Food • Sri Lanka
ගැන Patties (Christmas Style)
Burgher-style minced-meat patty for Christmas spread.
How to Make Patties (Christmas Style) (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Sri Lankan Patties (Christmas Style) are delightful, golden pastries filled with a savory mixture of spiced meat and vegetables, making them a beloved treat during the festive season. Renowned across the island, these patties are a staple at Christmas gatherings, family parties, and street food stalls. The delicate, flaky crust paired with a flavorful filling offers a satisfying bite—crunchy on the outside, tender and aromatic within. Rooted in Sri Lanka’s colonial history, patties have evolved into a cherished snack enjoyed by all communities, especially during Christmas. The filling typically features minced chicken or beef, potatoes, onions, and a blend of traditional spices that provide a mild heat and rich aroma. The patties are shaped into half-moons, then baked or lightly fried to golden perfection. Their taste is both comforting and celebratory, making them a great choice for those seeking authentic Sri Lankan street food with a festive twist. These Christmas-style patties stand out for their balance of flavor and texture, and with some health-conscious tweaks, you can enjoy a lighter version without sacrificing authenticity. Whether you're celebrating with family or exploring new international flavors, Sri Lankan Patties (Christmas Style) are sure to impress with their festive spirit and delicious taste.
Ingredients(for 2 medium patties per serving)
- 1 cup Whole wheat flour (Atta; healthier alternative to white flour)
- 100g Skinless chicken breast (finely minced)
- 1 medium Potato (boiled and mashed)
- 1 small Onion (finely chopped)
- 1 Green chili (finely chopped; adjust for spice)
- 5-6 Curry leaves (finely shredded)
- 1/4 tsp Black pepper powder
- 1/4 tsp Turmeric powder
- 1 tbsp Coconut oil (for sautéing)
- to taste Salt
- 1 Egg (beaten, for sealing and brushing)
Instructions
- 1
Prepare the dough: In a bowl, combine whole wheat flour, a pinch of salt, and 1 tsp coconut oil. Add water slowly and knead until a smooth, non-sticky dough forms. Cover and rest for 10 minutes.
10 minutes
A soft dough ensures flaky, tender patties.
- 2
Prepare the filling: Heat remaining coconut oil in a pan. Sauté onions, green chili, and curry leaves until aromatic. Add minced chicken, turmeric, black pepper, and salt. Cook until chicken is done.
7 minutes
Stir frequently for even cooking and to prevent sticking.
- 3
Mix in the mashed potato. Stir well to combine and cook for another 2 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Let the filling cool to room temperature.
3 minutes
Letting the filling cool prevents the dough from becoming sticky when shaping.
- 4
Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 2mm thickness. Cut out circles using a round cutter or glass (about 4 inches in diameter).
5 minutes
Uniform circles help patties bake evenly.
Why This Dish is Healthy
Baking instead of deep frying these Sri Lankan patties reduces overall fat and calorie content, making them a lighter alternative to traditional versions. Using whole wheat flour boosts fiber, supporting digestive health and satiety. Lean chicken provides high-quality protein for muscle maintenance, while the moderate use of coconut oil offers healthier fats. This makes the dish suitable for those seeking a balanced, nutrient-dense festive snack.
This Christmas-style patties recipe uses whole wheat flour and lean chicken, making it higher in dietary fiber and protein while reducing refined carbs and saturated fat. The inclusion of potatoes adds complex carbohydrates and potassium, while curry leaves and spices contribute antioxidants and micronutrients. Baking with coconut oil minimizes trans fats, making these patties a nourishing choice for festive snacking.
Pro Tips
- 💡Tip 1: Always let the filling cool before assembling to avoid soggy pastry.
- 💡Tip 2: Roll dough evenly to prevent uneven cooking.
- 💡Tip 3: For extra crispness, bake on a preheated tray.
Storage & Serving
Store cooled patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 160°C (320°F) for 5-7 minutes to restore crispness. Not recommended to freeze as the pastry may lose texture.
Best served: Breakfast or Lunch
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per 100g |
|---|---|
| Energy | 225.0 kcal |
| Protein | 6.4 g |
| Carbohydrates | 22.0 g |
| Total Fat | 12.2 g |
| Fiber | 1.2 g |