Jamaican Vegetable Patties

Name: Jamaican Vegetable Patties
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 12 patties
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup cold butter, cubed; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 cup ice water; 1 cup finely chopped carrots; 1 cup peas; 1 cup finely chopped bell pepper; 1 onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon allspice; 1 teaspoon thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I love making Jamaican Vegetable Patties because they are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. Whether as a snack or a light meal, these golden pastries filled with spiced vegetables bring a taste of the Caribbean to my kitchen. The flaky pastry combined with the savory filling creates a comforting bite that seems to spark joy in everyone who tries them. Plus, they are perfect for meal prep, allowing me to enjoy a quick and satisfying dish throughout the week.

Created by

Chantel Rivers

Last updated on 2026-01-12T02:10:13.764Z

Making Jamaican Vegetable Patties has been a delightful experience for me. Every time I make these, I’m reminded of how versatile and vibrant the flavors of Caribbean cuisine can be. I experimented with various fillings, and after many attempts, I found the perfect combination of spiced carrots, peas, and bell peppers. Not only do they taste amazing, but they also look beautiful with their golden crust.

One of the best tips I learned is to chill the dough before rolling it out. This helps ensure a flaky pastry that complements the hearty filling. Additionally, getting the spices just right really elevates the overall flavor. I've even served them at gatherings, and they never fail to impress!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        A perfect balance of spices that tantalizes your taste buds
Flaky, tender pastry that wraps around a savory vegetable filling
Great for meal prepping or as an appetizer for gatherings

      

Understanding the Pastry

The pastry for these Jamaican Vegetable Patties is what sets them apart. Using cold butter is essential for achieving that flaky texture, so don't skip this step. When mixing the butter with flour, you want to see pea-sized pieces before adding ice water. This keeps the fat from fully blending in, allowing steam to create those delightful layers during baking.

Chilling the dough for at least 30 minutes is crucial; it helps the gluten relax, making rolling out easier and ensuring that the pastry holds its shape during baking. If you find the dough too crumbly or difficult to roll out, add a teaspoon of cold water at a time until the desired consistency is reached.

Perfecting the Filling

When preparing the filling, ensure your vegetables are finely chopped. This ensures that there is an even distribution of flavors in every bite. I recommend grating the carrots for extra moisture and tenderness. Cooking the vegetables just enough to soften them, while maintaining a bit of crunch, creates a filling that won't become mushy during baking.

The combination of allspice and thyme is traditional in Jamaican cooking, adding a warm, aromatic depth to the mixture. Feel free to adjust the spices based on your palate; adding a pinch of cayenne can introduce a pleasing heat if you prefer a spicier filling.

Serving and Storage Tips

These patties can be enjoyed hot out of the oven or at room temperature, making them perfect for gatherings. To serve, consider pairing them with a tangy dipping sauce, like a spicy mango chutney or a cooling yogurt dip, which complement the spices beautifully.

For meal prep, these patties freeze exceptionally well. After baking, let them cool completely on a wire rack, then store them in an airtight container or freezer bag, dividing layers with parchment paper. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes, ensuring they remain crisp.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make the Jamaican Vegetable Patties:

For the pastry:

2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup cold butter, cubed
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup ice water

For the filling:

1 cup finely chopped carrots
1 cup peas
1 cup finely chopped bell pepper
1 onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon allspice
1 teaspoon thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons vegetable oil

Mix and prepare the ingredients as directed in the steps!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious Jamaican Vegetable Patties:

Make the pastry

In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the cold butter, and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add ice water until the dough comes together. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Prepare the filling

In a skillet over medium heat, heat the vegetable oil. Sauté the onions and garlic until translucent. Add carrots, peas, and bell pepper. Season with allspice, thyme, salt, and pepper, and cook until vegetables are tender. Let the filling cool.

Shape the patties

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the chilled pastry on a floured surface and cut out circles (about 4-5 inches in diameter). Place a spoonful of filling in the center of each circle, fold over, and crimp the edges to seal.

Bake the patties

Arrange the patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 25 minutes or until golden brown. Serve hot or at room temperature.

Enjoy your homemade Jamaican Vegetable Patties!

Pro Tips

For a more colorful filling, consider adding diced sweet potatoes or corn. You can also freeze uncooked patties to enjoy later
just bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Ingredient Benefits

The use of all-purpose flour in the pastry provides the right structure and tenderness for the patties. If you're looking for a gluten-free alternative, consider using a gluten-free all-purpose blend, though be sure to include a binding agent like xanthan gum for stability.

Vegetables in the filling, such as peas and bell peppers, not only contribute flavor but also add vibrant color and essential nutrients. If you want to switch things up, feel free to include other vegetables like corn, zucchini, or even cooked lentils for added protein.

Scaling and Variations

If you're looking to make these patties for a crowd, you can easily double or triple the recipe, especially the filling. Just make sure to adjust your cooking times slightly, as baked patties may need a few extra minutes if they’re made in larger batches.

To give your patties a unique twist, consider adding a cheese filling or different spices based on your taste preferences. A sprinkle of feta or cheddar inside each patty can add a wonderful creaminess and flavor contrast that complements the savory vegetables.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your pastry turns out too tough, it may be due to overworking the dough or not enough fat. Remember, mix just until combined and ensure your butter is very cold. If it feels dry while rolling out, you can patch it with a little ice water to bring it together again.

For those times when your patties leak filling during baking, it’s often due to overfilling. Aim for a small spoonful in the center without going overboard, and ensure the edges are well sealed. Crimping them shut tightly helps to keep the filling contained while they bake.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 2 days before using.

→ What other vegetables can I use in the filling?

Feel free to experiment with vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms!

→ How do I store leftover patties?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

→ How do I reheat the patties?

Reheat in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.