Jamaican Vegetable Patties

Name: Jamaican Vegetable Patties
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 16 patties
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 cup cold water; 1 cup finely chopped carrots; 1 cup frozen peas; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon allspice; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Authentic Favorites

I absolutely love making Jamaican Vegetable Patties! Their flaky crust and flavorful filling make for a delightful snack or light meal. Each time I prepare them, I’m reminded of the vibrant flavors of the Caribbean, especially with the blend of spices that brings everything together. I often serve these patties alongside a tangy dipping sauce, which elevates the experience. Plus, they’re surprisingly easy to make at home, allowing me to enjoy a taste of Jamaica whenever I crave it.

Created by

Selene Woodward

Last updated on 2026-01-13T03:42:37.140Z

When I first tasted Jamaican patties during a trip to Jamaica, I was blown away by their unique flavors and crispy texture. I wanted to recreate that experience at home, so I experimented with different vegetables and spices. The result was this amazing recipe that captures the essence of that tropical paradise. My version uses a mix of carrots, peas, and seasoning to give a rich filling.

Perfecting the dough was another delightful challenge. I found that using cold butter and allowing the dough to chill helped achieve that flakiness I was after. Once I baked them until golden brown, the aroma that filled my kitchen was pure bliss!

        Why You'll Love These Patties
        Deliciously spiced vegetable filling wrapped in a flaky crust
Great for meals, snacks, or a party appetizer
Easy to customize with your favorite vegetables

      

Understanding the Dough

The dough for these Jamaican Vegetable Patties is crucial for achieving that signature flaky texture. The cold butter is key; it creates steam pockets while baking, resulting in a light, airy crust. When mixing, aim for a consistency that resembles coarse crumbs without overworking it, which can lead to a tough texture. If you don't have unsalted butter, you can use salted butter but reduce the added salt to balance the flavors.

Chilling the dough is an essential step. It relaxes the gluten, making it easier to roll out and preventing shrinking during baking. I recommend letting it chill for the full 30 minutes; if you're short on time, aim for at least 15 minutes. You can also make this dough in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 48 hours or freeze it for a month, allowing for spontaneous patties whenever you crave them.

Perfecting the Filling

The filling is where you can personalize your patties. While this recipe calls for carrots and peas, feel free to experiment with other veggies like bell peppers or spinach, which adds different textures and flavors. Make sure to finely chop the vegetables to ensure even cooking, and consider pre-cooking any denser vegetables like potatoes to soften them beforehand. This guarantees your filling cooks thoroughly while the patties bake in the oven.

Spices play a vital role in flavoring the filling. The allspice and paprika not only add warmth and earthiness but also elevate the dish with that unmistakable Caribbean touch. If you're looking for a kick, incorporate some finely chopped scotch bonnet pepper or a dash of cayenne pepper. Remember to taste your filling before sealing the patties; it should be well-seasoned since the dough is relatively neutral.

Ingredients

Ingredients:

For the Dough:

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

For the Filling:

1 cup finely chopped carrots
1 cup frozen peas
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon allspice
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

Instructions

Instructions:

Make the Dough

In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the cold butter and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add cold water, mixing until a dough forms. Wrap in plastic and refrigerate for 30 minutes.

Prepare the Filling

In a skillet over medium heat, sauté the onion and garlic until fragrant. Add the carrots and peas, cooking for about 5 minutes. Stir in the allspice, paprika, salt, and pepper. Remove from heat and let cool.

Assemble the Patties

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface. Cut into 4-inch circles. Place a tablespoon of filling on one half of each circle. Fold over and seal the edges with a fork.

Bake the Patties

Place the patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown. Serve warm.

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of hot sauce to the filling or experimenting with other vegetables like bell peppers or spinach.

Serving and Pairing Ideas

These Jamaican Vegetable Patties are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed on their own, but they shine even brighter when paired with a tangy dipping sauce. A simple mix of yogurt, lime juice, and chopped cilantro creates a bright contrast to the savory filling. Alternatively, a spicy mango chutney can amplify those Caribbean flavors and add a delightful sweetness that balances the spices in the patties.

They also make a great addition to a buffet or as a party appetizer. You can serve them alongside a variety of other snacks, offering your guests a taste of the Caribbean. Consider arranging them on a platter with other finger foods, such as jerk chicken skewers or plantain chips, for an unforgettable culinary experience.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftover patties, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To maintain their flaky texture, reheat them in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. This method ensures that the crust stays crispy; avoid using the microwave as it can make the patties soggy.

For longer storage, freeze the assembled uncooked patties on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer them to a zip-top bag. They can be kept frozen for up to three months. Bake them straight from the freezer, increasing the baking time by about 5-10 minutes. This allows you to enjoy freshly baked patties anytime you want a quick snack or meal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these patties ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the patties and freeze them before baking. Just bake them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

→ What can I serve with Jamaican Vegetable Patties?

These patties are great on their own, but you can serve them with a spicy dipping sauce or alongside a fresh salad.

→ Can I use store-bought pastry for the dough?

Absolutely! Using store-bought pastry can save time. Just ensure to seal the edges well after filling.

→ Are these patties suitable for vegans?

Yes, this recipe is vegan-friendly as long as you use vegan butter in place of regular butter.