Jamaican Vegetable Patties

Name: Jamaican Vegetable Patties
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 12 patties
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed; 1/4 cup cold water; 1 tsp salt; 1 tsp sugar; 1 cup finely chopped carrots; 1 cup finely chopped bell peppers; 1/2 cup finely chopped onions; 1/4 cup corn; 1 tsp allspice; 1 tsp thyme; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I absolutely love making Jamaican Vegetable Patties because they are not only delicious but also a fun way to enjoy a variety of vegetables. The flaky crust combined with the flavorful filling is simply irresistible. Each bite transports me to a tropical paradise, reminding me of warm island vibes. The best part is how customizable they are; I often use whatever vegetables I have left in my fridge, making them a great way to reduce food waste. Plus, they make for a fantastic snack or meal prep option that I can enjoy throughout the week!

Created by

Gwendolyn Reed

Last updated on 2026-01-12T02:43:17.356Z

When I first tried making Jamaican Vegetable Patties, I was amazed by how the spices came together to create such a vibrant flavor profile. I discovered that using a blend of fresh vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, and onions, along with a touch of allspice, really brings these patties to life. The secret to the perfect flaky crust, I found, is chilling the dough before rolling it out, which prevents shrinking during baking.

Over the years, I’ve honed my technique, and I love experimenting with different fillings. Sometimes I add a hint of coconut milk to the vegetable mixture for creaminess. These patties are not only tasty but also a great way to introduce more veggies into my diet, and they make a fantastic appetizer for gatherings. Give them a try and enjoy the burst of flavors!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Delicious blend of spices with a colorful vegetable filling
Flaky crust that’s easy to make and handle
Perfect appetizer or snack for any occasion

      

Understanding the Dough

The dough for Jamaican Vegetable Patties is a crucial component that contributes to their flaky texture. Using cold butter is essential, as it prevents the fat from fully incorporating into the flour. This results in layers that create a delightful flakiness during baking. When mixing the butter into the flour, aim for a crumbly consistency, similar to wet sand. Be careful not to overwork the dough; this can lead to a tough crust instead of the desired tenderness.

Chilling the dough for at least 30 minutes allows the gluten to relax, which is key for easy rolling and shaping. If you’re short on time, a quick 15-minute chill may suffice, but I find that longer refrigerating times yield better results. When flouring your surface, consider using a pastry mat for easier cleanup, and dust your rolling pin with flour to prevent sticking while rolling out the dough.

Customizing the Filling

The beauty of these patties lies in their versatility. You can customize the filling with virtually any vegetable you have on hand. Zucchini or spinach can be added for extra moisture and nutrients. If you prefer a spicier kick, consider incorporating diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the mix. Just ensure that the vegetable pieces are finely chopped to maintain an even texture and promote easy folding of the patties.

Cooking the filling until the vegetables are soft, about 5-7 minutes, ensures they blend well and allows the spices to fully develop their flavor. Always taste for seasoning before assembling. You may want to adjust the salt and pepper, as this step can significantly enhance the overall taste. If you have leftovers, the filling can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days, making it a great meal prep option.

Storing and Reheating

Once baked, Jamaican Vegetable Patties can be enjoyed right away or stored for later. They can be kept in an airtight container at room temperature for a day or in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. This way, they can be stored for up to three months without losing quality.

When reheating, you can maintain the crust's flakiness by popping them back in the oven at 350°F for around 10-15 minutes. Avoid microwaving them, as this tends to make the crust soggy. These patties also make a great addition to lunchboxes or as a snack, paired with dipping sauces such as mango chutney or a spicy aioli for an extra flavor boost.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients for this delicious patty recipe!

For the Dough

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

For the Filling

1 cup finely chopped carrots
1 cup finely chopped bell peppers
1/2 cup finely chopped onions
1/4 cup corn
1 tsp allspice
1 tsp thyme
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure to prepare the filling while your dough chills.

Instructions

Let’s assemble these tasty patties!

Prepare the Dough

In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, and sugar. Add the cold butter and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add cold water until the dough comes together. Wrap it in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Make the Filling

In a skillet, sauté the onions, carrots, and bell peppers until they are soft. Add corn, allspice, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir well and cook for another 5 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool.

Assemble the Patties

Preheat your oven to 375°F. Roll out the dough on a floured surface and cut into circles. Place a spoonful of the vegetable filling in the center of each circle. Fold the dough over and seal the edges using a fork.

Bake the Patties

Place the patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.

Enjoy your delicious Jamaican Vegetable Patties warm!

Pro Tips

For the best texture, make sure the butter is very cold when making the dough. Feel free to substitute your favorite vegetables in the filling.

Serving Suggestions

These Jamaican Vegetable Patties can be served as a delightful appetizer or as part of a larger meal. Consider pairing them with a tropical salad dressed with citrus vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast. A side of coconut rice or black bean salad can complement the spices in the patties beautifully, creating a vibrant and colorful plate.

For a fun gathering, serve the patties on a platter with various dipping sauces. Homemade guacamole, tangy salsa, or a simple yogurt dip can elevate the snacking experience, making them suitable for parties or casual get-togethers.

Dietary Adjustments

If you are looking for gluten-free options, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, ensuring it contains a binder like xanthan gum. You might also explore plant-based butter for lactose-free diets, which can provide similar results for the dough without the dairy.

For a lighter version, consider incorporating finely chopped mushrooms or eggplant into the filling, as these will absorb flavors while providing a satisfying consistency. Reducing the butter in the crust by a couple of tablespoons can also yield a healthier alternative while still maintaining that melt-in-your-mouth experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I freeze Jamaican Vegetable Patties?

Yes! You can freeze the uncooked patties. Just assemble them, wrap them in plastic, and place them in the freezer. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

→ What other vegetables can I use?

You can use any combination of vegetables such as spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini. Just make sure to chop them finely.

→ How do I know when they are done baking?

They should be golden brown on the outside. You can also check the bottom; it should be lightly browned.

→ Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough a day in advance and keep it wrapped in the fridge.