Jamaican Vegetable Patties

Name: Jamaican Vegetable Patties
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 12 patties
Ingredients: 2 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, and corn); 1 medium potato, diced; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon thyme; 1 teaspoon curry powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon salt; ½ cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed; 5-6 tablespoons cold water

Highlighted under: Fusion Ideas

I absolutely love making Jamaican Vegetable Patties at home! The flaky pastry filled with seasoned vegetables is a delightful treat that's perfect for a snack or a light meal. Each time I make them, the aroma fills my kitchen, and I can hardly wait for them to come out of the oven. The combination of spices and fresh ingredients gives these patties an authentic flavor that reminds me of my time spent in Jamaica. Plus, they are surprisingly easy to assemble, making them a great option even for novice cooks.

Created by

Frederica Houghton

Last updated on 2026-01-13T06:39:34.785Z

When I first tried Jamaican Vegetable Patties, I was enamored by their unique texture and flavor. The crispy outer layer perfectly contrasts with the savory filling. I experimented a bit with the filling, using a mix of carrots, potatoes, and spices, and it turned out amazing! One tip I discovered is to let the filling cool before assembling the patties; this keeps the pastry from becoming soggy.

Every time I serve these patties at gatherings, they disappear almost instantly! The golden-brown color and enticing aroma make them irresistible. I've found that adding a touch of thyme really enhances the flavor profile, making each bite truly memorable. You’ll never want to go back to store-bought once you try making them yourself!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Perfectly flaky crust that melts in your mouth
Vibrant vegetables bursting with flavor
Quick to prepare and bake—great for busy days

      

Perfecting Your Pastry

The key to achieving that perfectly flaky pastry lies in how you handle the butter. I recommend using very cold, cubed butter when mixing. This helps to create those desirable layers as the fat melts during baking, producing a light and airy texture. Make sure not to overwork the dough; mix until just combined for the best results. If you notice the dough feels slightly dry, you can add one additional tablespoon of cold water, but do so cautiously to avoid a sticky consistency.

After preparing the pastry, allowing it to rest in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes is crucial. This resting period not only allows the gluten to relax—resulting in a softer dough—but also makes rolling it out much easier. When rolling, aim for a thickness of about 1/8 inch; this will ensure your patties maintain their structure while baking and won’t become overly doughy.

Flavorful Filling Variations

The filling for these Jamaican Vegetable Patties can be adapted to suit your personal taste or what you have available. For example, try incorporating chopped bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini for additional color and nutrition. You could also add black beans for a protein boost, making the patties even more filling. If you enjoy heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the filling mix for a spicy kick.

If you’re looking for a more robust flavor profile, consider sautéing the vegetables for longer or adding a splash of vegetable broth during cooking. This not only enhances the flavor but also adds a touch of moisture to the filling, helping to create that satisfying contrast with the crispy pastry. Just ensure any added liquid evaporates before filling the patties to prevent sogginess.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to make delicious Jamaican Vegetable Patties:

For the Filling

2 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, and corn)
1 medium potato, diced
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon thyme
1 teaspoon curry powder
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Pastry

2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
½ cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
5-6 tablespoons cold water

Ensure everything is measured and ready for a smooth cooking experience!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Jamaican Vegetable Patties:

Prepare the Filling

In a skillet, heat a bit of oil over medium heat. Sauté the onion and garlic until fragrant, then add the mixed vegetables and diced potatoes. Stir in thyme, curry powder, salt, and pepper. Cook until everything is tender. Remove from heat and let it cool.

Make the Pastry

In a large bowl, combine flour and salt. Cut in butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add cold water, mixing until a dough forms. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 15 minutes.

Assemble the Patties

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the pastry dough on a floured surface and cut into circles. Place a spoonful 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 and brush with a little oil. Bake for 25 minutes or until golden brown. Let them cool slightly before serving.

Enjoy your homemade Jamaican Vegetable Patties!

Pro Tips

For extra crunch, you can brush the tops of patties with an egg wash before baking. Additionally, using different vegetables like bell peppers or spinach can add a twist to your filling.

Make-Ahead Tips

These patties are a fantastic make-ahead option. You can prepare the filling and pastry dough in advance, storing them separately in the fridge for up to a day. Alternatively, assemble the patties and freeze them on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container and keep them for up to three months. This way, you can bake a few at a time whenever you crave a tasty snack.

When you're ready to bake frozen patties, there's no need to thaw; simply place them on a baking sheet and increase the baking time by about 10 minutes. This ensures they’ll cook evenly and maintain that delightful crispy texture on the outside.

Serving Suggestions

For an enjoyable serving experience, you can pair these patties with a zesty dipping sauce. A simple combination of yogurt mixed with lime juice and cilantro adds a refreshing touch that complements the seasoned vegetables beautifully. Alternatively, a homemade mango salsa can introduce a sweet contrast that enhances the overall flavor profile.

If you’re considering these patties as a light meal, serve them alongside a fresh salad of mixed greens, avocado, and a citrus vinaigrette. This not only boosts the nutritional value but also adds a wonderful palette of flavors, making for a satisfying dining experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I freeze these patties?

Yes! You can freeze the unbaked patties. Just make sure to separate them with parchment paper and use them within a month.

→ What can I serve with these patties?

These patties are great on their own but can also be served with a spicy dipping sauce or a simple salad.

→ Can I add meat to the filling?

Absolutely! You can add cooked ground beef or chicken for a non-vegetarian option.

→ How can I make the pastry vegan?

To make a vegan pastry, substitute the butter with coconut oil or a vegan margarine and use cold water in the recipe as usual.