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 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon turmeric; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed; 4-6 tablespoons cold water; 1 cup shredded cabbage; 1 cup grated carrots; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon allspice; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I absolutely love making Jamaican Vegetable Patties, especially when I crave something hearty yet plant-based. These golden, flaky pastries filled with seasoned vegetables bring so much joy to my kitchen. The aromatic spices really shine through, and I adore how versatile the filling can be. This recipe allows you to play with flavors and ingredients based on what you have on hand. Whether it's for a quick snack or a delightful appetizer at gatherings, these patties never fail to impress.

Created by

Megan Douglas

Last updated on 2026-01-12T00:43:11.970Z

When I first discovered Jamaican Vegetable Patties, I was fascinated by how such a simple dish could be so bursting with flavor. After trying several methods, I found that using a mix of carrots, cabbage, and spices creates the perfect filling. The layer of turmeric in the dough not only gives it a vibrant color but also adds a subtle warmth that complements the vegetables beautifully.

I love experimenting with the spice blend, often adding a dash of allspice or even some fresh thyme for a unique twist. Plus, making my own dough from scratch allows me to control the texture, ensuring that each bite is flaky yet tender. It's a labor of love, but the results are worth every minute!

        Why You'll Love These Patties
        Flaky pastry that encases a savory vegetable filling
A delightful blend of spices that tantalizes your taste buds
Perfect for both main dishes and snacking anytime

      

Perfecting the Dough

A vital element of Jamaican Vegetable Patties is the dough, which should be fresh and flaky. Using chilled butter is key; it helps to create those desirable layers. Ensure your butter is not at room temperature, as this can lead to a tough crust. When mixing, stop as soon as you see crumbly bits—overworking will develop the gluten, making the pastry less tender. Adding ice-cold water, one tablespoon at a time, is also crucial; it prevents the dough from becoming warm from your hands and promotes flakiness.

After the dough comes together, wrapping it in plastic wrap and allowing it to chill for at least 30 minutes is essential. This resting period helps relax the gluten, making it easier to roll out later and improves texture. If you live in a warmer climate, consider chilling the flour and your mixing bowl beforehand for an extra layer of control when incorporating the butter, ensuring the best results.

Filling Variations and Tips

While the recommended filling of cabbage and carrots offers a fantastic balance of texture and flavor, feel free to get creative! You can incorporate other vegetables such as bell peppers for sweetness or zucchini for moisture. Just keep in mind that adding watery vegetables can affect the texture, so make sure to sauté them long enough to evaporate excess moisture. Experimenting with herbs—like fresh thyme or parsley—can also elevate the taste profile, giving it a personal touch.

Remember to let the filling cool before encasing it in the dough. Placing hot filling directly into the pastry can lead to steam buildup during baking, resulting in a soggy texture. Allow it to cool until lukewarm to ensure that your patties maintain that desirable crispness on the outside while the filling remains deliciously warm.

Baking Perfect Patties

Evenly baking your patties is crucial for achieving that beautiful golden-brown finish. When placing them on the baking sheet, ensure they have enough space apart to allow heat circulation, which promotes even cooking. Additionally, brushing the tops with a bit of melted butter or olive oil before baking not only enhances the color but also adds a nice richness to the crust. Be sure to keep an eye on them as they bake; they can go from golden to too dark in just a couple of minutes.

If you'd like to prepare these patties in advance, they freeze beautifully! After assembling but before baking, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper in the freezer for a couple of hours. Once frozen solid, transfer them to an airtight container, where they can stay for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy, bake them straight from frozen, adding an extra five minutes to the baking time.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients to make these delicious Jamaican Vegetable Patties:

For the Dough

2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon turmeric
1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
4-6 tablespoons cold water

For the Filling

1 cup shredded cabbage
1 cup grated carrots
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon allspice
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil

Once you have all the ingredients ready, you're all set to start making the patties!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create the perfect Jamaican Vegetable Patties:

Prepare the Dough

In a bowl, mix the flour, salt, and turmeric. Add the cold butter and mix until crumbly. Gradually add cold water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together. Shape it into a disc, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for 30 minutes.

Make the Filling

Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Sauté the onions and garlic until translucent. Add cabbage and carrots, cooking until just wilted. Stir in the spices, salt, and pepper. Remove from heat and let it cool.

Assemble the Patties

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/8-inch thickness. Cut out circles, fill them with the vegetable mixture, and fold over to seal. Crimp the edges with a fork.

Bake

Place the patties on a lined baking sheet. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown. Allow to cool slightly before serving.

Enjoy the warm, delicious patties as a snack or as part of a meal!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of hot sauce to the vegetable filling. You can also use store-bought pastry dough to save time if desired.

Serving Suggestions

Jamaican Vegetable Patties make a fantastic centerpiece for any gathering. They can be served alongside a fresh salad or dipped in a spicy sauce, like a homemade jerk sauce or a yogurt-based dip for a cooling contrast. Pair them with pickled vegetables for a touch of acidity that balances the savory flavors beautifully.

For a more substantial meal, consider serving these patties with rice and peas or a side of mashed plantains. Alternatively, you can turn them into a fun sandwich by placing them inside fresh pita bread, dressed up with your favorite sauces and fresh veggies.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking for dietary swaps, you can easily make the dough vegan by substituting the unsalted butter with a vegan butter alternative or coconut oil. For a gluten-free option, consider a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend; just make sure to check if your blend contains xanthan gum, which is beneficial for binding without gluten.

Also, if you want to amp up the nutritional value, consider adding cooked lentils or chickpeas to your vegetable filling. Not only do they add protein, but they also provide a hearty texture that works beautifully with the spices.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these patties vegan?

Yes! Simply replace the butter with a vegan alternative.

→ What other vegetables can I use in the filling?

Feel free to get creative! Bell peppers, spinach, or even potatoes can make great additions.

→ How can I store leftover patties?

Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. They can also be frozen for up to a month.

→ Can I bake the patties instead of frying them?

Yes! Baking gives them a healthier twist while retaining their deliciousness.