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 cubed; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 cup cold water; 1 cup finely chopped carrots; 1 cup finely chopped bell peppers; 1 cup finely chopped onions; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped; 1 teaspoon allspice; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

When I first tasted Jamaican Vegetable Patties, I was captivated by their vibrant flavors and flaky crust. This recipe has become a staple in my kitchen, as they’re perfect for a quick snack or a light meal. The combination of spices and fresh vegetables makes every bite a burst of culinary joy. I love serving them with a spicy dipping sauce to elevate their taste even further. Trust me, once you try these patties, you won't be able to resist making them again!

Created by

Noemi Turner

Last updated on 2026-01-12T03:04:16.166Z

My journey with Jamaican Vegetable Patties began during a trip to the Caribbean, where I fell in love with the local cuisine. I decided to recreate the experience at home and experimented with different fillings before finally perfecting the recipe. The crispy, golden crust paired with a spicy vegetable mix is a match made in heaven.

What really makes these patties stand out is the use of fresh herbs and spices. I find that adding a bit of thyme and allspice brings out the flavors beautifully. I've made these for numerous gatherings, and they never fail to impress guests!

        Why You Will Love These Patties
        Deliciously flaky crust that’s hard to resist
Savory vegetable filling spiced to perfection
Great for meal prep or quick snacks

      

The Art of Flaky Pastry

Creating the perfect flaky pastry is all about handling the dough with care. Make sure your butter is very cold; this will ensure that it doesn't fully incorporate into the flour, which is key for achieving those coveted flaky layers. I recommend refrigerating the dough after mixing to further promote flakiness. This resting time allows the gluten to relax, making the dough easier to roll out and shape without becoming tough.

When rolling out your dough, keep it thick enough to hold the filling yet thin enough to create a delicate texture. You should aim for about 1/8 inch thick to strike the right balance. As you roll, dust your work surface with flour to prevent sticking, but avoid using too much flour, as this can alter the dough's consistency.

Flavorful Vegetable Filling

The filling of your Jamaican Vegetable Patties can be customized based on what vegetables you have on hand. Zucchini or corn can work wonderfully alongside the carrots and bell peppers. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time slightly for any harder vegetables, ensuring they become tender in the sautéing process. Remember to only fill each patty with enough filling to enclose it without overflowing; about a tablespoon is usually sufficient.

Spices like allspice and fresh thyme are essential to capturing the authentic Jamaican flavor profile. If you prefer a bit of heat, consider adding some chopped scotch bonnet pepper or a pinch of cayenne. Be sure to taste your filling before assembling to ensure it's seasoned to your liking. A dash of lime juice can enhance the flavor, adding a pleasant brightness.

Ingredients

Gather all your ingredients before starting to make the process smooth and easy.

For the Dough

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 cup finely chopped carrots
1 cup finely chopped bell peppers
1 cup finely chopped onions
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
1 teaspoon allspice
Salt and pepper to taste

Once all the ingredients are prepared, you’ll be ready to assemble your patties!

Instructions

Ensure you have a clean workspace to assemble your patties efficiently.

Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, mix the flour and salt. Add the chilled butter and rub it into the flour until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs. Gradually add cold water until the dough holds together. Wrap it in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes.

Make the Filling

In a skillet over medium heat, sauté the onions and garlic until translucent. Add the carrots and bell peppers, cook until tender. Stir in thyme, allspice, salt, and pepper. Set aside to cool.

Assemble the Patties

Roll out the dough on a floured surface and cut into circles. Place a spoonful of the filling in the center of each circle, fold over, and seal the edges with a fork.

Bake the Patties

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 25 minutes or until golden brown.

Let the patties cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them warm!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding some chopped jalapeños to the filling for a spicy kick. You can also experiment with different vegetables based on what’s in season.

Storage and Freezing

These vegetable patties can be a great make-ahead option. Once baked, allow them to cool completely on a wire rack before storing. They can be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days, making them a perfect snack for busy days. For longer storage, you can freeze them. When freezing, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container once solid.

To reheat frozen patties, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the patties on a lined baking sheet and bake them straight from the freezer for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through and crispy. This method retains their flaky texture without the need for a microwave, which can make them soggy.

Serving Suggestions

Serving these patties with a spicy dipping sauce elevates the eating experience. A simple mix of yogurt, lime juice, and your choice of hot sauce creates a refreshing contrast to the savory filling. Alternatively, serve them alongside a tangy mango chutney for a sweet and spicy combination that complements the spices beautifully.

For a complete meal, consider pairing these patties with a light salad featuring fresh greens, avocado, and a citrus vinaigrette. This adds a fresh element to balance the hearty flavors of the patties, transforming them into a delightful lunch or dinner option.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator.

→ Can I freeze the patties?

Absolutely! Assemble the patties and freeze them before baking. Bake them directly from frozen, just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

→ What can I serve with Jamaican Vegetable Patties?

They pair wonderfully with mango chutney, spicy salsa, or even a simple green salad.

→ Are these patties vegan?

Yes, if you use vegan butter for the dough, these patties can easily be made vegan.