Vegan Jamaican Patties

Vegan Jamaican Patties are a plant-based twist on the beloved Caribbean street food. These pastries feature a golden, flaky crust infused with turmeric and a rich, savory filling made with spiced vegetables and plant-based proteins. Perfect as a snack, lunchbox treat, or party appetizer, these patties capture the bold, aromatic flavors of traditional Jamaican cuisine without any animal products.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavor-packed with classic Jamaican spices
• Features a crispy, golden turmeric-infused pastry
• 100% plant-based, ideal for vegans and vegetarians
• Great for meal prep and freezer-friendly
• Versatile – enjoy as a snack, appetizer, or main meal

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the pastry

• All-purpose flour
• Ground turmeric
• Curry powder
• Salt
• Cold plant-based butter or margarine
• Ice-cold water

For the filling

• Vegetable oil
• Plant-based mince or crumbles
• Onion, finely chopped
• Carrot, diced
• Garlic cloves, minced
• Spring onions, thinly sliced
• Tomato paste
• Curry powder
• Sweet paprika
• Smoked paprika
• Fresh thyme
• Ground allspice
• Vegetable stock or vegan beef stock
• Vegan Worcestershire sauce
• Hot sauce (optional)
• Cornflour (cornstarch) mixed with water

Directions

1. Make the pastry: In a large bowl, mix flour, turmeric, curry powder, and salt. Cut in the cold plant-based butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Slowly add ice-cold water and mix until the dough forms. Wrap in plastic and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
2. Cook the filling: In a skillet, heat oil over medium heat. Add the plant-based mince and cook until lightly browned. Add onion and carrot, cook until softened. Stir in garlic and spring onions, cook briefly. Add tomato paste, then season with curry powder, sweet and smoked paprika, thyme, and allspice. Pour in the stock, Worcestershire sauce, and optional hot sauce. Simmer for 5 minutes. Stir in the cornflour slurry and cook until thickened. Let cool.
3. Assemble the patties: Roll the chilled dough to about 1/8-inch thickness and cut into circles (about 6 inches in diameter). Spoon filling onto one side, fold over, and seal with a fork.
4. Bake: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place patties on a lined baking sheet. Bake for 25–28 minutes or until golden and crisp. Let cool slightly before serving.

Servings and timing

• Servings: Approximately 12–16 patties
• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Chilling Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: About 1 hour 25 minutes

Variations

• Spicy version: Add chopped Scotch bonnet or habanero pepper to the filling for more heat.
• Gluten-free: Use a gluten-free flour blend for the pastry.
• Mushroom filling: Swap plant-based mince for finely chopped mushrooms for a hearty, earthy version.
• Cheesy twist: Add shredded vegan cheese to the filling for extra richness.
• Mini patties: Make smaller versions for party appetizers or kid-friendly snacks.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store cooled patties in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: Freeze baked patties in a single layer, then transfer to a sealed bag or container. Freeze for up to 2 months.
• Reheating:
  • Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 10–15 minutes.
  • Microwave: Heat for 2–3 minutes; reheat briefly in the oven or toaster oven for a crispier crust.

FAQs

What gives Jamaican patties their yellow color?

Turmeric and curry powder in the dough give Jamaican patties their signature yellow hue.

Can I make these patties ahead of time?

Yes, both the dough and the filling can be made a day in advance. You can also assemble and freeze them for later.

Do Jamaican patties have to be spicy?

No, the spice level can be adjusted to your preference. Simply reduce or omit the hot sauce or spicy peppers.

Can I fry these instead of baking?

These patties are traditionally baked, but you can shallow fry them if desired. Be sure to chill them well before frying to prevent leaks.

What type of vegan protein works best for the filling?

Plant-based mince, crumbled tofu, lentils, or finely chopped mushrooms all work well.

How do I prevent the dough from cracking?

Ensure the dough is well-hydrated and not overworked. Let it rest in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before rolling out.

Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes, simply use a gluten-free flour blend suitable for pastry. Check that all other ingredients are gluten-free.

Are Jamaican patties served with any dipping sauce?

They can be enjoyed on their own or paired with a spicy vegan mayo, tamarind sauce, or mango chutney.

What’s the best way to seal the edges of the patties?

Use a fork to press the edges together and seal the filling inside. You can also brush the edges with water before sealing.

Can I reheat frozen patties without thawing?

Yes, you can bake them directly from frozen. Just add 5–10 minutes to the baking time.

Conclusion

Vegan Jamaican Patties offer a delicious and satisfying way to enjoy the bold, spiced flavors of the Caribbean without any animal products. With their golden crust and savory filling, they’re perfect for any occasion—whether you’re meal prepping for the week or serving guests at a gathering. Versatile, easy to make, and freezer-friendly, these patties are sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

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