Jamaican Vegetable Patties

Name: Jamaican Vegetable Patties
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 12 patties
Ingredients: 3 cups all-purpose flour; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed; 1/2 cup water, chilled; 1 cup carrots, finely chopped; 1 cup peas, frozen or fresh; 1 cup bell peppers, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 1 tsp curry powder; 1/2 tsp black pepper; Salt to taste; Oil for sautéing

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I love making Jamaican Vegetable Patties because they’re a delightful blend of flavors and textures that never fail to impress my family and friends. Each bite is filled with aromatic spices and a hearty vegetable filling, all encased in a flaky pastry. Preparing these patties makes me feel connected to Jamaican culture, and it’s a fun process rolling and shaping them. Whether I'm serving them as appetizers or a main dish, I can always count on them to bring joy to our table.

Created by

Keira Thompson

Last updated on 2026-01-12T00:40:14.618Z

When I first tried Jamaican Vegetable Patties, the fusion of spices and fresh vegetables blew my mind. I decided to recreate them at home, experimenting with different fillings, and I discovered that a mix of carrots, peas, and bell peppers worked wonders. The secret is to sauté the vegetables briefly before stuffing, which brings out their natural sweetness and retains a bit of crunch.

What made my homemade patties special was the flaky pastry. I learned to use cold butter and water to achieve that perfect texture. Every time I bake these, my kitchen fills with such a warm, inviting aroma, and they never last long on the table!

        Why You'll Love These Patties
        Vibrant flavors with a satisfying crunch
Easy to customize with your favorite veggies
Perfect for meal prep or a quick snack

      

Understanding the Pastry

The pastry for Jamaican Vegetable Patties is crucial for achieving that iconic flaky texture that complements the hearty filling. When rubbing cold butter into the flour, it’s important not to overwork the dough; aim for a texture similar to coarse crumbs. This technique ensures that the fat creates steam during baking, resulting in light and flaky layers. If you're looking to make these patties in advance, the dough can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two days, or frozen for up to a month. Just remember to thaw it in the fridge the night before use.

Using chilled ingredients is essential for keeping the dough firm and manageable. The temperature of the water is key; if it’s too warm, it will melt the butter, causing the dough to spread rather than puff up during baking. If you're in a warmer climate, consider placing your mixing bowl in the refrigerator for a few minutes before preparing the dough. This simple step can make a significant difference in your pastry's flakiness.

Customizing the Filling

The filling in these patties is incredibly versatile, allowing you to adapt it based on your preferences or what you have on hand. While the recipe suggests carrots, peas, and bell peppers, you can easily substitute zucchini or mushrooms for a different texture. If you're looking to add some spice, consider incorporating finely chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce into the mixture. Just make sure to adjust the seasoning, as additional ingredients can alter the flavor profile.

Texture is a big part of what makes these patties delightful. To ensure a balanced filling, consider blanching firmer vegetables like carrots before adding them to the skillet. This will reduce their cooking time and help them blend well with the other ingredients. If you're preparing the filling ahead of time, it can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days, making it a convenient option for meal prep.

Ingredients for Jamaican Vegetable Patties

For the Pastry

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

For the Filling

1 cup carrots, finely chopped
1 cup peas, frozen or fresh
1 cup bell peppers, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 tsp curry powder
1/2 tsp black pepper
Salt to taste
Oil for sautéing

Ensure all ingredients are fresh for the best taste.

How to Make Jamaican Vegetable Patties

Prepare the Pastry

In a large bowl, combine flour and salt. Add the cold butter and rub it into the flour until it resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add chilled water, mixing until a dough forms.

Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Make the Filling

In a skillet, heat oil over medium heat. Sauté onions and garlic until translucent. Add carrots, bell peppers, peas, curry powder, black pepper, and salt.

Cook for about 5-7 minutes until vegetables are tender. Let cool.

Assemble the Patties

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll out the pastry on a floured surface and cut into circles. Spoon the filling onto one half of each circle, fold the dough over to create a pocket, and seal the edges with a fork.

Bake

Place the patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown. Let cool slightly before serving.

Enjoy your delicious homemade patties with a tangy dipping sauce!

Pro Tips

You can freeze the unbaked patties and bake them directly from the freezer when needed. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Serving Suggestions

Jamaican Vegetable Patties can be served in numerous ways, making them a suitable addition to any meal. For a traditional touch, serve them with mango chutney or a spicy dipping sauce to enhance the flavor. Pairing them with a fresh salad or a side of coleslaw can create a well-rounded meal that balances the richness of the patties.

These patties also make excellent snacks for gatherings. Arrange them on a platter with assorted dips, and your friends and family won't be able to resist. If you're hosting a Caribbean-themed barbecue, these patties can be a perfect appetizer, adding a unique twist to the menu.

Storage and Reheating

To keep your patties fresh after baking, cool them completely on a wire rack before transferring them to an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to four days. If you want to make these patties ahead of time, consider freezing them before baking. Just prepare the patties, arrange them on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, and then transfer to a sealed freezer bag. They can last up to three months this way.

When you're ready to enjoy the frozen patties, there’s no need to thaw them beforehand. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake directly from the freezer for about 30-35 minutes, or until they are golden brown and heated through. You'll be surprised at how fresh they taste, even after freezing!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other vegetables for the filling?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute with vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or even mushrooms based on your preference.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. You can also freeze them for later.

→ Can I make the dough in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the dough a day in advance and keep it wrapped in the fridge until you are ready to use it.

→ What can I serve with the patties?

These patties pair wonderfully with a fresh salad, dipping sauces, or even a side of rice.