Jamaican Vegetable Patties

Name: Jamaican Vegetable Patties
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 12 patties
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup vegetable shortening; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 6-8 tablespoons cold water; 1 cup carrots, grated; 1 cup green peas, cooked; 1/2 cup bell pepper, finely chopped; 1 onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon thyme; 1 teaspoon allspice; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

Highlighted under: International Plates

I absolutely love making Jamaican Vegetable Patties! They are a delightful blend of spices and vegetables, all enveloped in a flaky, golden pastry. Each bite is bursting with flavor, and I enjoy serving them as a snack or light meal. The best part is that you can customize the filling to your liking, using whatever vegetables you have on hand. My family devours them, and they're perfect for gatherings or just enjoying on a cozy evening at home.

Created by

Harriet Mason

Last updated on 2026-01-13T05:22:09.542Z

Making Jamaican Vegetable Patties has been a wonderful journey for me. I started experimenting with different spices and vegetables, and I realized that using a mix of carrots, peas, and bell peppers gives the patties an amazing flavor and texture. I also discovered that letting the filling cool before assembling helps to prevent the pastry from becoming soggy, ensuring each bite is perfectly crispy.

One time, I decided to add a bit of scotch bonnet pepper for an extra kick, and it elevated the patties to a whole new level. The balance of heat and flavor makes these patties irresistible, and I always find myself making a double batch to enjoy later!

Why You'll Love These Patties
Flavorful filling with spices that dance on your palate
Perfectly flaky pastry that contrasts beautifully with the filling
A vegetarian option that satisfies even the heartiest appetites

The Importance of Pastry Technique

Mastering the pastry is crucial for achieving that perfect flaky texture. When cutting in the vegetable shortening, make sure to leave some larger pieces visible; this helps create layers in the pastry during baking. If the dough feels too crumbly, a little extra cold water can be added—just a teaspoon at a time—to bring it together without overworking it.

Chilling the dough is not just a suggestion; it's essential. Refrigerating it for at least 30 minutes allows the gluten to relax, making the dough easier to roll out. If you’re short on time, you can place it in the freezer for about 15 minutes, but keep an eye on it to prevent it from freezing hard.

Filling Variations and Dietary Substitutions

While this recipe calls for carrots, peas, and bell peppers, feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables. Zucchini, corn, or even finely chopped mushrooms can add a different flavor profile. For a spicier kick, add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the filling. These variations not only cater to your taste but also help you use up any leftover vegetables you have.

If you need a gluten-free option, substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend, ensuring it contains a binding agent like xanthan gum. For a vegan twist, replace the vegetable shortening with coconut oil or a plant-based butter, which will also enhance the flavor of the pastry.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for the Jamaican Vegetable Patties:

For the pastry

2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup vegetable shortening
1/2 teaspoon salt
6-8 tablespoons cold water

For the filling

1 cup carrots, grated
1 cup green peas, cooked
1/2 cup bell pepper, finely chopped
1 onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon thyme
1 teaspoon allspice
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon vegetable oil

Ensure everything is prepped before moving on to the steps!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Jamaican Vegetable Patties:

Prepare the pastry

In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Cut in the vegetable shortening until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add cold water, mixing until the dough comes together. Wrap in plastic and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Make the filling

In a skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the onions and garlic, cooking until soft. Stir in the carrots, peas, bell pepper, thyme, allspice, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, then remove from heat and let cool.

Assemble the patties

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface and cut into circles (about 4-5 inches in diameter). Place a spoonful of the filling in the center of each circle, fold in half, and seal the edges with a fork.

Bake

Arrange the patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for about 20 minutes or until golden brown. Enjoy hot or at room temperature!

Serve with your favorite dipping sauce!

Pro Tips

To enhance the flavor of the filling, consider adding a splash of soy sauce or some chopped scallions. You can also experiment with different vegetables based on what you enjoy or have available.

Storage and Reheating Tips

These Jamaican Vegetable Patties can be easily made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. To store them, allow the patties to cool completely and then place them in an airtight container. For longer storage, you can freeze them before baking; just be sure to label them clearly with the date. They can last up to three months in the freezer.

When ready to enjoy, thaw the frozen patties overnight in the refrigerator. You can reheat them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through and crispy. For a quicker method, microwave them for 1-2 minutes, but know that this will result in a softer pastry.

Serving Suggestions

Jamaican Vegetable Patties are versatile and can be served in many ways. For a light meal, consider pairing them with a fresh salad or spicy mango salsa to enhance the flavors. If you're hosting a gathering, serve these patties alongside a variety of dips, such as a creamy avocado dip or a tangy chutney, to create a delightful appetizer spread.

For a fun twist, try slicing the patties in half and stuffing them with greens, tomatoes, and a drizzle of your favorite dressing to create a flavorful sandwich. This way, you can enjoy them warm or cold, making them a perfect snack for picnics or lunchboxes.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I freeze the patties?

Yes, you can freeze the uncooked patties. Just make sure to place them in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer bag.

→ What can I serve with Jamaican Vegetable Patties?

They pair well with a variety of chutneys or dipping sauces, like mango salsa or a spicy pepper sauce.

→ How do I reheat the patties?

To reheat, place them in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.

→ Can I use gluten-free flour for the pastry?

Yes, you can substitute with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Just ensure to follow the package instructions for best results.