Spicy Patties

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C)

Pastry:
In large bowl, stir together flour, baking powder, curry powder, salt and turmeric. Cut in shortening and butter until mixture resembles fine crumbs with a few large pieces. Stirring with fork, pour in water; stir to make soft dough. Gather into ball; wrap and chill for 1 hour.

Curried Beef Filling:
In large skillet, heat oil over medium heat; cook onions and garlic until softened, about 5 minutes. Remove onion mixture; set aside.

Increase heat to high. Cook beef, stirring to break up pieces, until no longer pink about 5 minutes. Drain off fat. Stir in onion mixture, curry powder, salt, thyme and black and cayenne peppers; cook over medium heat for 3 minutes. Pour in water and bring to boil; reduce heat to simmer and cook for 5 to 10 minutes or until most of the water is absorbed. Stir in bread crumbs to make moist but not runny mixture. Taste and adjust seasoning. Let cool.

Assembly:
Divide pastry in half and roll into 2 long sausage shapes. Slice each roll crosswise into 12 equal pieces.

Separate filling into 24 equal mounds; roll out each piece pastry into 6-inch (15 cm) circle. Spoon each mound into centre of pastry round. Wet edges with water and fold in half, making edges meet. Using fork, press edges together; prick twice. Trim into neat half-moon shape. Place patties on ungreased baking sheets; bake in oven for 25 to 30 minutes or until crisp and lightly browned.