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 unsalted butter, chilled and diced; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 6 tablespoons cold water; 1 tablespoon vegetable oil; 1 onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 carrot, grated; 1 bell pepper, finely chopped; 1 cup green peas; 1 teaspoon curry powder; 1/2 teaspoon thyme; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I absolutely love making Jamaican Vegetable Patties, which are a delightful burst of flavor wrapped in golden, flaky pastry. Each bite brings together a medley of fresh vegetables and spices, creating a vibrant and satisfying snack. I appreciate how versatile they are – perfect as a party appetizer or a quick lunch. Plus, they can easily be made in advance and frozen, making them a convenient option for busy days. Let me share my tips for achieving that perfect pastry crust and a filling packed with flavor.

Created by

Poppy Walsh

Last updated on 2026-01-12T00:07:16.551Z

When I first tasted Jamaican Vegetable Patties at a local festival, I was instantly captivated by their unique flavor and texture. I decided to recreate them at home, experimenting with various spices and vegetable combinations until I found the perfect mix. The key lies in balancing the spices to elevate the freshness of the vegetables without overwhelming their natural taste.

One essential tip I learned is to let the filling cool before filling the pastry. This helps prevent the pastry from getting soggy and ensures a flaky crust. Additionally, a sprinkle of turmeric not only adds color but also provides a subtle warmth that beautifully complements the filling.

        Why You'll Love These Patties
        Flaky, buttery crust that's irresistibly delicious
Bursting with fresh vegetables and vibrant spices
Perfect for meal prep and easy to freeze for later

      

Mastering the Pastry

Creating a flaky pastry crust is key to the success of your Jamaican Vegetable Patties. Ensure your butter is very cold before using, as this helps create steam when baking, resulting in a desirable flakiness. When cutting the butter into the flour, aim for a mixture that has small pea-sized chunks rather than fully incorporating it. This technique will yield that perfect texture that envelopes your vibrant filling beautifully.

Chilling the dough after mixing is a crucial step. Allowing the dough to rest in the refrigerator not only makes it easier to roll out but also helps to relax the gluten in the flour, preventing shrinkage during baking. If you’re pressed for time, you can chill it for just 15 minutes, but I highly recommend the full 30 for the best results.

Filling Flavorful Techniques

The filling is where the flavor truly shines in Jamaican Vegetable Patties. Sautéing the onion and garlic in vegetable oil first creates a fragrant base for the vegetables. Make sure to cook them until they are translucent, which takes about 3-5 minutes; this step releases their natural sweetness and adds depth to your filling.

You can customize the filling according to your taste or dietary needs. For example, feel free to swap out the peas with corn or add in some finely chopped kale or spinach for an extra nutritional boost. If you love heat, consider adding finely chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the mixture before cooking.

Storage and Reheating Tips

One of the best features of Jamaican Vegetable Patties is their ability to be made ahead of time. After assembling your patties, you can freeze them before baking. Just place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, freeze until solid, and then transfer them to a freezer bag. This way, they can be stored for up to 3 months. You can bake them straight from the freezer; just add an additional 5 minutes to the baking time.

When it comes to reheating, I suggest using an oven to maintain the crust’s flakiness. Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through, instead of using a microwave, which can make the pastry soggy. This process will ensure your patties retain that delicious texture while warming up.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make these delicious Jamaican Vegetable Patties:

For the Pastry

2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and diced
1/2 teaspoon salt
6 tablespoons cold water

For the Filling

1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1 onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 carrot, grated
1 bell pepper, finely chopped
1 cup green peas
1 teaspoon curry powder
1/2 teaspoon thyme
Salt and pepper to taste

Once you have your ingredients ready, you'll be all set to assemble the patties!

Instructions

Here’s how you can make your Jamaican Vegetable Patties:

Make the Pastry

In a bowl, mix the flour and salt. Cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually stir in the cold water until the dough forms.

Wrap in plastic and refrigerate for 30 minutes.

Prepare the Filling

Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Sauté the onion and garlic until translucent. Add the carrot, bell pepper, and peas.

Stir in the curry powder, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, then let cool.

Assemble the Patties

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the pastry on a floured surface and cut into circles. Place a spoonful of filling in the center, fold over, and seal the edges with a fork.

Bake the Patties

Place the patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 25 minutes or until golden brown. Let cool slightly before serving.

These patties can be served warm or at room temperature, making them perfect for various occasions!

Pro Tips

For a spicy kick, add chopped jalapeños or hot sauce to the vegetable filling. You can also experiment with different vegetables based on what’s in season or your personal preference.

Serving Suggestions

Jamaican Vegetable Patties are incredibly versatile and can be served in various ways. Pair them with a tangy dipping sauce, like a mango chutney or a spicy pepper sauce, to elevate the flavor experience. These accompaniments add a refreshing kick against the savory pastry.

For a more substantial meal, consider serving them alongside a salad of mixed greens topped with avocado and a light vinaigrette. This combination not only balances the richness of the patties but also adds a healthy component to your meal.

Variations to Try

While the classic vegetable filling is delicious, you can get creative with different ingredients. Try adding diced potatoes or lentils to the mix for additional heartiness. You could also experiment with different herbs – cilantro or parsley can infuse a unique flavor profile into your patties.

If you want a more authentic twist, consider incorporating traditional Jamaican spices like allspice or Scotch bonnet pepper for heat. Just remember to adjust the spice level according to your preference to ensure a delightful balance of flavors.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use store-bought pastry for these patties?

Absolutely! Using store-bought pastry can save time. Just ensure it's a flaky variety for the best results.

→ How do I freeze uncooked patties?

Place the assembled but uncooked patties on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag. They can be baked straight from frozen!

→ What vegetables can I substitute in the filling?

You can use vegetables like corn, zucchini, or green beans. Just make sure they are finely chopped to ensure even cooking.

→ Can I make these vegan?

Yes! Substitute butter with vegan butter and ensure your pastry is dairy-free. The filling is naturally vegan, so you're all set!