Jamaican Vegetable Patties

Name: Jamaican Vegetable Patties
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 8 patties
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed; 1/4 cup cold water; 1/2 tsp salt; 1 cup spinach, chopped; 1/2 cup carrots, grated; 1/2 cup bell peppers, diced; 1 small onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp allspice; 1 tsp thyme; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Fusion Recipes

We absolutely love making Jamaican Vegetable Patties at home! The combination of vibrant vegetables and flaky pastry is simply irresistible. Every bite is packed with flavor, and I love how customizable the filling can be. Whether it's for a snack, appetizer, or even a light meal, these patties always hit the spot. Plus, they are surprisingly easy to whip up, making them a great option for any gathering or a cozy night in. Trust me, once you try them, you'll be hooked!

Created by

Wendy Ashbourne

Last updated on 2026-01-13T06:53:35.733Z

When I first tasted Jamaican Vegetable Patties at a local market, I was instantly hooked! The burst of flavors from the spices and the fresh vegetables wrapped in a golden, flaky pastry was simply divine. I decided to recreate this dish at home, experimenting with different vegetable combinations like spinach, carrots, and bell peppers.

One crucial tip I learned while making these patties is to ensure that your filling is well-seasoned and not too moist, as this will help maintain the crispiness of the pastry during baking. Using a blend of allspice and thyme brings an authentic flavor that transports you straight to Jamaica!

        Why You'll Love These Patties
        Deliciously spiced vegetable filling packed with nutrients
Flaky, buttery pastry that melts in your mouth
Perfect for casual snacking or impressive appetizers

      

Mastering the Pastry

The key to achieving a flaky, buttery pastry is in how you handle the butter. Make sure it’s really cold before you start. If needed, you can freeze the butter for about 10 minutes before cubing it. When mixing the flour and butter, work quickly to avoid warming the mixture. You should stop when the texture resembles coarse breadcrumbs; over-mixing can lead to tough pastry instead of tender flakiness.

After forming your dough, chilling it is essential. It allows the gluten to relax, resulting in a more tender pastry. Make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, but it can also be left in the fridge for up to 2 days if you need to prepare in advance. Just remember to let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before rolling.

Filling Flavor and Nutrition

While the basic filling recipe includes spinach, carrots, and bell peppers, feel free to get creative! You can substitute kale or Swiss chard for the spinach, or add in ingredients like mushrooms for an earthy flavor. If you prefer a little heat, adding chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper can elevate the spiciness. Each vegetable not only contributes to the flavor profile but also boosts the nutritional value, making these patties a wholesome snack.

Cooking the filling until the vegetables are tender is crucial; you want them soft but not mushy. It’s great to build flavor by sautéing the onions and garlic until they’re golden to bring out their sweetness. Season your filling generously, but remember to taste as you go so you don’t overpower the fresh flavors of the vegetables. A splash of lime juice can also brighten up the mixture just before filling the patties.

Ingredients

For the pastry

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

For the filling

1 cup spinach, chopped
1/2 cup carrots, grated
1/2 cup bell peppers, diced
1 small onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp allspice
1 tsp thyme
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Preparation Steps

Make the pastry

In a bowl, combine the flour and salt. Rub in the cold butter until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs. Gradually add cold water and mix to form a dough. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes.

Prepare the filling

In a skillet, sauté the onion and garlic until soft. Add the carrots, bell peppers, and spinach; cook until the vegetables are tender. Season with allspice, thyme, salt, and pepper. Allow to cool.

Assemble the patties

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface. Cut into circles and place a spoonful of the vegetable filling in each circle. Fold over and seal the edges with a fork.

Bake

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

Enjoy!

Pro Tips

To ensure your patties are extra crispy, you can brush the tops with a little egg wash before baking. Experiment with different vegetables and spices to make the filling uniquely yours!

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftover patties or want to make them ahead of time, let them cool completely before storing them. You can refrigerate them for up to 3 days or freeze them for up to three months. To freeze, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to an airtight container. This way, you won’t stick together when frozen.

For reheating, the oven is your best option to maintain their flaky texture. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through, or crispy again. If you’re in a hurry, the microwave works, but they may lose some of their crispy exterior.

Serving Suggestions

These Jamaican Vegetable Patties make fantastic appetizers, but you can also treat them as a complete meal. Pair them with a cooling yogurt sauce or a spicy mango chutney for dipping. A fresh green salad with citrus dressing on the side can balance out the richness of the pastry and filling.

For a fun twist, consider serving the patties with a side of slaw. A crunchy cabbage slaw with lime and cilantro can provide a refreshing contrast to the warm, flaky patties. If you’re hosting a gathering, platter them alongside assorted dipping sauces for a delightful snack spread that encourages sharing.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these patties vegan?

Yes! You can replace the butter with a vegan butter substitute and omit any egg wash for a delicious vegan version.

→ How do I store leftover patties?

Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, or freeze them for longer storage.

→ Can I bake the patties instead of frying them?

Absolutely! Baking them is healthier and yields a nice crispy crust.

→ What dips go well with Jamaican Vegetable Patties?

A spicy mango chutney or cool avocado dip pairs beautifully with these flavorful patties.