Jamaican Vegetable Patties

Name: Jamaican Vegetable Patties
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 12 patties
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed; 1/4 cup cold water; 1 cup finely chopped cabbage; 1/2 cup grated carrots; 1/2 cup chopped bell pepper; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 1 teaspoon allspice; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon vegetable oil for cooking

Highlighted under: Global World Food Favorites

I absolutely adore making Jamaican Vegetable Patties at home! The flaky, golden crust encases a deliciously spiced filling that's packed with vegetables. Each bite is a burst of flavors that transports me directly to the vibrant streets of Jamaica. This recipe is not just about satisfying my taste buds; it's also a great way to use up leftover vegetables. Whether it's for a snack, appetizer, or a light meal, these patties always make me feel happy and satisfied.

Created by

Lucy Thompson

Last updated on 2026-01-13T07:27:36.820Z

When I first tried making Jamaican Vegetable Patties, I was surprised by how simple yet rewarding the process was. The key is in combining fresh veggies with the right spices for that authentic taste. Through trial and error, I found that a touch of allspice adds a distinct flavor that elevates the entire dish, making it unforgettable.

I've learned that folding the dough gently ensures a flaky crust, perfect for encasing the savory filling. The aroma that fills the kitchen while they bake is nothing short of magical, reminding me of warm Caribbean breezes and sunny shores.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Deliciously spiced vegetable filling that bursts with flavor
Flaky, golden crust that's easy to make and perfectly crispy
Great as a snack, appetizer, or a main dish option

Making the Perfect Dough

Achieving a flaky crust is essential for any delicious patty. By cutting the cold butter into the flour, you create tiny pockets of fat that contribute to the flakiness. Make sure not to overwork the dough; mix just until it holds together to prevent a tough texture. Chill the dough well, as this helps relax the gluten, making it easier to roll out and preventing shrinkage during baking.

When rolling out the dough, aim for a thickness of about 1/8 inch. If it’s too thick, the patties will be doughy rather than flaky, and if too thin, they might risk breaking apart while baking. Using a round cutter or the rim of a glass is a great way to cut uniform circles. Keep a light dusting of flour on the surface and the dough to prevent sticking.

Flavorful Vegetable Filling

The choice of vegetables in this recipe is crucial for a well-rounded flavor profile and satisfying texture. I recommend using fresh, vibrant vegetables, as they'll provide better flavor and a nice crunch. If you're looking to switch it up, consider adding ingredients like sautéed mushrooms or diced zucchini. Just remember that moisture content matters; you may need to adjust cooking times to ensure the filling isn’t too watery.

To enhance the flavor of your filling, let it cool completely before assembling the patties. This not only makes handling easier but also allows the spices to meld together, deepening the overall taste. A fun tip: if you enjoy a little extra heat, adding finely chopped jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper can elevate the flavor while still keeping the filling fresh and delicious.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to get started on your Jamaican Vegetable Patties:

For the Dough

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

For the Filling

1 cup finely chopped cabbage
1/2 cup grated carrots
1/2 cup chopped bell pepper
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 teaspoon allspice
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon vegetable oil for cooking

Make sure to prepare all your ingredients ahead of time for a smoother cooking experience.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create delicious Jamaican Vegetable Patties:

Prepare the Dough

In a bowl, whisk together flour, turmeric, and salt. Cut in the cubed butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add cold water, mixing until the dough forms. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes.

Cook the Filling

In a skillet over medium heat, heat vegetable oil. Add onions and garlic, sautéing until soft. Incorporate cabbage, carrots, and bell peppers; cook until tender. Stir in soy sauce, allspice, salt, and pepper. Remove from heat and let cool.

Assemble the Patties

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface and cut into circles. Place a spoonful of the veggie filling in the center, fold over, and seal the edges with a fork.

Bake the Patties

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

Serve your Jamaican Vegetable Patties hot, with your favorite dipping sauce or by themselves!

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize the filling with your favorite vegetables or add some heat with chopped jalapeños for a spicy kick!

Storage and Freezing

These Jamaican Vegetable Patties can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To maintain their crispiness, it’s best to reheat them in the oven rather than the microwave. A quick reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes will bring back that delightful crunch.

If you want to prepare these patties in advance, they can also be frozen before baking. Assemble the patties and place them on a baking sheet, ensuring they don’t touch, then freeze them until solid. After that, transfer them to a zip-lock bag for easier storage. They can go straight from the freezer to the oven; just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Serving Ideas

These patties can be served warm as a stand-alone snack or alongside your favorite dipping sauce. A zesty mango chutney or a tangy hot sauce pairs beautifully, balancing the spiced filling with a bit of sweetness or heat. You can also serve them as part of a larger spread at a gathering, alongside other appetizers for a complete meal.

For a complete meal, consider pairing the patties with a light salad. A refreshing mix of greens, cherry tomatoes, and a citrus vinaigrette will complement the richness of the patties. Adding some avocado slices on the side can also enhance the dish, bringing healthy fats to the table and creating a beautiful color contrast.

Customizing Your Patties

Customization is key to making these patties your own. Aside from swapping out the vegetables in the filling, consider adding cheese for a creamy element or swapping out butter in the dough for a plant-based alternative to accommodate dietary needs. Vegan margarine works well and yields a similar flaky crust.

If you're feeling adventurous, try adding unique spices or herbs to change the flavor profile further. Fresh thyme, parsley, or a bit of jerk seasoning can bring an exciting twist. Don't be afraid to get creative with the filling; the possibilities are nearly endless, allowing you to craft patties that suit your unique tastes.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough a day in advance. Just keep it refrigerated and tightly wrapped.

→ What can I substitute for butter in the dough?

You can use coconut oil or margarine as a dairy-free alternative.

→ How do I store leftover patties?

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

→ Can I make these patties vegan?

Absolutely! Just substitute the butter with a vegan alternative and ensure the filling ingredients are all plant-based.