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 finely chopped mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, bell peppers); 1 tablespoon vegetable oil; 1 small onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon curry powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 cup cold water

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I absolutely love making Jamaican Vegetable Patties because they are a delicious and satisfying way to enjoy a medley of fresh vegetables. The flaky, golden crust envelops a flavorful filling of carrots, peas, and spices, making them perfect for any occasion, whether as a snack or a main meal. I remember my first bite of these patties; the combination of savory flavors with a hint of spice created an explosion of taste that kept me wanting more. Trust me, once you try making them, they'll become a regular in your kitchen!

Created by

Brittany Shaw

Last updated on 2026-01-12T01:10:16.904Z

When I first decided to tackle Jamaican Vegetable Patties, I was pleasantly surprised at how easy they were to prepare. The combination of spices and vegetables creates a filling that is as vibrant as it is tasty. I learned that allowing the dough to chill before rolling it out made a significant difference in achieving that perfect flaky texture.

One of my favorite parts of making these patties is getting to experiment with the filling. Sometimes, I throw in some sweet potatoes or bell peppers for added flavor and nutrition. Each time I make them, I am reminded of the diverse and rich culinary heritage of Jamaica, which makes each bite even more special.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        A medley of vibrant, fresh vegetables wrapped in flaky pastry
Perfectly spiced for a savory yet satisfying snack
A great way to introduce new flavors into your meals

      

Enhancing Flavors and Textures

The combination of spices such as curry powder and thyme in the filling not only adds depth but also brings out the natural sweetness of the vegetables. I recommend using fresh, seasonal veggies whenever possible to enhance the dish's flavor profile. For a slight twist, consider adding chopped jalapeños for some heat or a squeeze of lime juice just before baking to brighten the overall taste.

When preparing the filling, ensure that you sauté the onion and garlic until they become translucent before adding the vegetables. This step is crucial as it develops the base flavors, allowing them to infuse into the vegetables. You want the vegetables tender but still crisp, as they'll soften further during baking.

Perfecting the Dough

The success of your Jamaican Vegetable Patties greatly depends on the pastry texture, which should be both flaky and tender. When mixing the cubed butter into the flour, aim for a mixture that resembles coarse crumbs; this creates layers that will flake beautifully as it bakes. Don't overwork the dough to avoid a dense final product.

Chilling the dough is a vital step that helps prevent shrinkage during baking. If you find the dough too sticky when rolling out, lightly flour your work surface and the rolling pin. Ensure you roll it out to an even thickness of about 1/8 inch to ensure uniform cooking. This visual cue is important for achieving that perfect golden-brown finish.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create your Jamaican Vegetable Patties:

Filling Ingredients

2 cups finely chopped mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, bell peppers)
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1 small onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon curry powder
Salt and pepper to taste

Dough Ingredients

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

Once you have all your ingredients, you're ready to start making these delightful patties!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Jamaican Vegetable Patties:

Prepare the Filling

In a skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until translucent. Stir in the mixed vegetables, thyme, curry powder, salt, and pepper, and cook for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender. Set aside to cool.

Make the Dough

In a bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the cubed butter and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add cold water, mixing until the dough comes together.

Wrap in plastic and chill for about 20 minutes.

Assemble the Patties

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into circles, add a spoonful of cooled filling to each, and fold over to create a half-moon shape.

Seal the edges with a fork.

Bake the Patties

Transfer the patties to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 25 minutes or until golden brown. Allow to cool slightly before serving.

Enjoy your freshly baked Jamaican Vegetable Patties warm, with a side of your favorite dipping sauce if desired!

Pro Tips

For a vegan version, simply use coconut oil instead of butter in the dough. Experiment with different vegetables to suit your taste preferences.

Make-Ahead Tips

Jamaican Vegetable Patties can be made in advance, making them a great option for meal prepping or entertaining. To do this, prepare the filling and dough, then assemble the patties. Instead of baking them right away, place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag and store for up to three months.

When you're ready to enjoy your patties, there's no need to defrost; simply bake them directly from the freezer. Just add an extra 5-7 minutes to the baking time, keeping an eye on them until they achieve that perfect golden hue.

Serving Suggestions

These patties make a wonderful snack or light meal. Serve them warm with a side of cilantro yogurt sauce or a tangy dipping sauce made from mango chutney and yogurt for additional flavor contrasts. They also pair nicely with a fresh garden salad for a more substantial meal.

If you're looking to cater to different tastes, feel free to vary the filling. Consider adding cooked lentils or quinoa for a protein boost or utilizing seasonal produce like spinach or zucchini. These small adjustments not only change the flavor but can elevate the nutritional value as well.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I freeze the patties before baking?

Yes, you can freeze the assembled patties. Just make sure to wrap them well in plastic wrap and store them in an airtight container.

→ What other fillings can I use?

You can use any combination of vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or even cooked lentils for added protein.

→ How do I reheat the patties?

To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through.

→ Are these patties healthy?

Yes! These vegetable patties are packed with nutrients from the vegetables and can be made healthier by using less fat in the dough.