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; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 cup ice water; 1 tablespoon vegetable oil; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 carrot, grated; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1 cup cabbage, shredded; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1/2 teaspoon allspice; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon scotch bonnet sauce (adjust to taste)

Highlighted under: Authentic Ideas

I fell in love with Jamaican vegetable patties during a Caribbean food festival, where the vibrant flavors captured my heart. Making them at home was a delightful challenge that left my kitchen smelling amazing. Each flaky pastry is filled with a mix of spiced vegetables, creating an irresistible snack or appetizer. I love the versatility of the filling, which can easily be adjusted to whatever vegetables I have on hand. The result is a deliciously crispy bite, perfect for any gathering or weekend treat.

Created by

Adriana Whitaker

Last updated on 2026-01-13T00:57:35.653Z

Every time I prepare Jamaican vegetable patties, I’m transported back to that festival, buzzing with energy and exotic tastes. The key to their flavor lies in the spice blend I use; a mix of thyme, allspice, and a touch of scotch bonnet sauce gives the filling a unique kick. I often experiment with different vegetables based on the season, making each batch a little different yet equally enjoyable.

Another tip I’ve found is to let the dough rest in the fridge for a bit before rolling it out. It makes the pastry easier to handle and contributes to that perfect flaky texture. Honestly, once you bite into these flaky little wonders, you’ll understand why they’re a staple in Jamaican cuisine!

        Why You'll Love These Patties
        Irresistibly flaky pastry that melts in your mouth
Vibrant flavors from a blend of spices and fresh vegetables
Perfect for snacks, parties, or meal prep

      

Mastering the Pastry Technique

The key to flaky pastry lies in the temperature of your ingredients and the method of mixing. Cold, cubed butter must remain intact within the flour to create those desirable layers. When rubbing the butter into the flour, work quickly to avoid melting the butter. Aim for a mixture that looks like coarse breadcrumbs, which ensures that air pockets are formed, ultimately giving the pastry its flaky texture upon baking.

Chilling the dough for at least 30 minutes is not just a suggestion; it’s essential. This allows the gluten to relax, which prevents the pastry from shrinking during baking. If you're in a hurry, you can shape the dough into a flat disc before wrapping it in plastic wrap. This helps it chill more efficiently, speeding up your preparation time.

Creating Flavor-Loaded Filling

The filling of your patties is where the real magic happens. Allowing the onions and garlic to become fragrant before adding the other vegetables is crucial for building depth of flavor. Cook the mixture long enough—about 5-7 minutes—until the vegetables are tender but still vibrant. This step also helps the spices meld together, enhancing the overall taste. If you prefer an extra kick, feel free to adjust the amount of scotch bonnet sauce based on your heat tolerance.

Experimenting with different vegetables can also alter flavors significantly. For instance, adding some cooked potatoes can provide a creamy texture or using sweet potatoes can introduce a delightful sweetness. If you’re looking to make this dish vegan, ensure that the butter in the pastry is swapped out for a plant-based alternative without compromising on flakiness.

Perfecting the Patty Shape and Bake

When sealing the patties, ensure you're using enough filling but not overstuffing, as that can lead to leaks during baking. A tablespoon is usually the perfect amount, allowing for expansion as the filling cooks. Use a fork to crimp the edges tightly, which not only seals but also adds a decorative touch. Take your time rolling out the pastry; achieving uniform thickness ensures even baking, resulting in consistent crispiness across all patties.

When baking, keep an eye on the patties as oven temperatures can vary. You're looking for a beautiful golden brown color, which typically occurs at around 25-30 minutes at 375°F. If you want a more intense golden color, you can brush the tops with a bit of egg wash before baking. This adds sheen and further enhances the visual appeal, making them even more irresistible.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to make your patties.

For the Pastry

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

For the Filling

1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 carrot, grated
1 bell pepper, diced
1 cup cabbage, shredded
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon allspice
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon scotch bonnet sauce (adjust to taste)

Prepare your filling and dough, and let’s get started!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to bring your patties to life.

Make the Pastry

In a large bowl, mix the flour and salt. Add cold, cubed butter and rub it with your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually stir in ice water until the dough comes together. Wrap in plastic and refrigerate for 30 minutes.

Prepare the Filling

In a skillet over medium heat, add vegetable oil. Sauté onions and garlic until fragrant. Then, add grated carrot, diced bell pepper, and cabbage. Stir in thyme, allspice, salt, pepper, and scotch bonnet sauce. Cook until vegetables are tender and flavors meld, about 5-7 minutes. Let cool.

Fill and Shape the Patties

Roll out the pastry on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thick. Cut into circles (about 4-6 inches in diameter). Place a tablespoon of filling in the center of each circle, fold over, and seal the edges with a fork. Repeat until all are filled.

Bake the Patties

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the patties on a lined baking sheet. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown. Allow to cool slightly before serving.

Enjoy your Jamaican vegetable patties hot or at room temperature!

Pro Tips

To ensure the filling doesn't soak through the pastry, allow it to cool completely before filling. Additionally, you can brush the tops of the patties with an egg wash for a shinier finish.

Storing and Reheating

These Jamaican vegetable patties can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing. Before baking, freeze them on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag. They can last up to three months in the freezer. When ready to enjoy, bake directly from frozen; just add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time.

Reheating is simple as well. If you want to retain the crispy texture, avoid the microwave. Instead, place the patties back in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. This will help them regain their delightful flakiness rather than turning soggy.

Serving Suggestions

Jamaican vegetable patties make for an excellent finger food option at gatherings or as a light meal. Consider serving them with a cooling dip, such as a yogurt-based sauce or a mango chutney, which balances the spiciness of the filling beautifully. A fresh salad on the side can also provide a refreshing contrast to the rich pastry.

For those looking to elevate their experience, you can create a platter with assorted dips and snacks. Combining the patties with other Caribbean favorites like jerk chicken skewers or plantain chips can offer guests a delightful taste adventure. It’s a great way to highlight the versatility of this dish and bring friends together over a shared appreciation for flavorful food.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make the pastry in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the dough a day in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator until you are ready to use it.

→ What can I substitute if I don't have scotch bonnet sauce?

If you prefer milder flavors, you can use jalapeño sauce or simply omit it and add more spices.

→ Can I freeze the patties?

Absolutely! You can freeze unbaked patties. Just place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months.

→ What other vegetables can I use in the filling?

Feel free to experiment with any vegetables you have on hand, such as zucchini, spinach, or peas, to make this recipe your own.