Jamaican Vegetable Patties

Name: Jamaican Vegetable Patties
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 12 patties
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 cup cold water; 1 tablespoon vegetable oil; 1 onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 carrot, grated; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1 cup spinach, chopped; 1 teaspoon allspice; 1 teaspoon thyme; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Cultural Recipes

I absolutely love these Jamaican Vegetable Patties! Every bite delivers a burst of flavor, making it a fantastic choice for a snack or light meal. I enjoy the blend of spices that encapsulate the earthy vegetables, which creates a comforting yet vibrant dish. What makes these patties truly special is the flaky pastry, which contrasts beautifully with the savory filling. Whether served on their own or as part of a meal, these patties are sure to impress with their delicious taste and satisfying texture.

Created by

Gillian Sykes

Last updated on 2026-01-13T07:29:37.489Z

When I first stumbled upon the idea of making Jamaican Vegetable Patties, I was intrigued by the bold flavors and flaky crust. The experience of kneading the dough and preparing the colorful filling inspired me to craft these patties with care, ultimately enhancing my appreciation for Caribbean cuisine. After some experimentation, I found that a combination of spices really elevates the flavors, making each bite a delightful experience!

Cooking these patties is not just about following a recipe; it's about tasting as you go. I usually like to add a pinch of allspice and fresh thyme to the filling, which harmonizes beautifully with the veggies. This method truly brings the dish to life, and the result is so worth the effort. Trust me, they will vanish from your dinner table!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
A perfect balance of spices that bring the filling to life
Flaky, golden-brown pastry that’s satisfying to bite into
Versatile enough to enjoy as a snack or part of a meal

Understanding the Pastry

The pastry is the heart of these Jamaican Vegetable Patties, providing a flaky, crisp exterior that contrasts beautifully with the savory filling. It's essential to keep the butter chilled, as this helps create that signature flakiness. When mixing the flour and butter, stop as soon as coarse crumbs form; overworking the dough can lead to tough pastries. For a golden finish, consider brushing the tops with a beaten egg before baking.

If you're aiming for a healthier twist, you can substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. Just be aware that this might result in a denser pastry. Always chill the dough properly; if you're short on time, pop it in the freezer for 10-15 minutes instead of refrigerating. This method ensures that your pastry remains light and airy.

Enhancing the Filling

The filling is where you can get creative. While this recipe features classic vegetables, don't hesitate to include others like zucchini or mushrooms for added texture and flavors. For those who enjoy a bit of heat, adding chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper will spice things up. Just remember to balance the spices so they complement rather than overpower the vegetables.

Cooking the vegetables until tender not only enhances their flavor but also helps to release moisture. This is crucial; if they are too wet, the pastries might become soggy. Ensure that after cooking, allow the filling to cool completely before assembling to avoid melting the pastry prematurely.

Ingredients

For the Pastry

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

For the Filling

1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1 onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 carrot, grated
1 bell pepper, diced
1 cup spinach, chopped
1 teaspoon allspice
1 teaspoon thyme
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Prepare the Pastry

In a large bowl, mix the flour and salt. Add the chilled butter and use a pastry cutter to combine until it resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add cold water until the dough forms. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes.

Make the Filling

In a skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Sauté the onion and garlic until translucent. Add the grated carrot, diced bell pepper, and chopped spinach. Stir in the allspice, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender. Allow to cool.

Assemble the Patties

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the dough on a floured surface and cut into circles about 4 inches in diameter. Place a spoonful of filling in the center of each circle. Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape, sealing the edges with a fork.

Bake

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

Pro Tips

For added richness, you can brush the tops of the patties with an egg wash before baking for a shiny finish. Additionally, feel free to experiment with different vegetables based on what you have available.

Storage and Freezing Tips

These Jamaican Vegetable Patties can be made ahead of time and stored for later enjoyment. They should be tightly wrapped in plastic wrap and placed in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When storing, separate layers of patties with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

If you'd like to freeze them, place the uncooked patties on a baking sheet in a single layer until frozen solid. Then transfer them to a freezer bag, where they can stay fresh for up to three months. When you're ready to bake, there's no need to thaw; just pop them straight into the oven, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Serving Suggestions

These patties are wonderfully versatile and can be served on their own or alongside a dipping sauce. A tangy mango chutney or a cool yogurt sauce can elevate their flavor profile and add an enjoyable contrast. You can also serve these patties on a bed of mixed greens for a light lunch or as part of a larger buffet-style meal.

For a fun twist, try pairing your patties with Caribbean-inspired sides, such as rice and peas or a vibrant coleslaw. The freshness of these sides complements the savory flavors of the patties, creating a delightful and satisfying meal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make the pastry ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the pastry dough a day in advance and keep it refrigerated until you're ready to use it.

→ What can I substitute for butter in the pastry?

You can use a vegan butter or margarine for a dairy-free option.

→ Can these patties be frozen?

Absolutely! You can freeze the uncooked patties on a baking sheet and then transfer them to a freezer bag. Just bake them from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

→ What else can I put in the filling?

Feel free to mix in some cooked lentils, corn, or even cheese for extra flavor.