Caribbean Vegetable Patties Recipe (Hand Pie)
These golden, flaky, and irresistibly savory Caribbean Vegetable Patties, also known as hand pies, are a delightful snack or appetizer bursting with flavor. Encased in a tender, buttery pastry and filled with a vibrant mix of spiced vegetables, these patties are perfect for any occasion. Inspired by Caribbean street food, these flavorful treats combine the earthiness of turmeric and curry with the warmth of allspice, cinnamon, and nutmeg, creating a harmonious filling that’s sure to transport your tastebuds to the tropics.
Whether you enjoy them as an afternoon snack or serve them at a party, these Caribbean Vegetable Patties are always a crowd-pleaser. Serve them hot from the oven with a cooling dip or your favorite chutney for an even more elevated experience.
Recipe Details
| Recipe Name | Caribbean Vegetable Patties (Hand Pie) |
|---|---|
| Cuisine | Caribbean |
| Course | Snack, Appetizer |
| Diet | Vegetarian |
| Servings | 10 patties |
| Prep Time | 60 minutes |
| Cook Time | 30 minutes |
| Total Time | 90 minutes |
| Difficulty | Moderate |
Ingredients
For the Pastry Crust
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| All Purpose Flour (Maida) | 2 cups |
| Salt | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Turmeric Powder (Haldi) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Curry Powder | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Butter (adjustable) | 1/2 cup |
| Chilled Water | 1/2 cup |
For the Vegetable Filling
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Mixed Vegetables (beans, peas, etc.) | 1 cup |
| Cabbage (Patta Gobi / Muttaikose) – chopped | 1/4 cup |
| Green Bell Pepper (Capsicum) – chopped | 1 |
| Tomato – chopped | 1 |
| Onion – chopped | 1 |
| Ginger Garlic Paste | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | To taste |
| Coconut Oil | 1 tablespoon |
| Paprika Powder | 1 teaspoon |
| All Spice Powder | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Nutmeg Powder | A pinch |
| Cinnamon Powder (Dalchini) | A pinch |
Instructions
Making the Pastry Crust
- Prepare the Flour Mixture: Begin by sifting together the all-purpose flour, salt, turmeric, and curry powder into a large mixing bowl. This will ensure that the spices are evenly distributed throughout the flour, giving the crust its signature golden hue and flavorful kick.
- Incorporate the Butter: Cut the cold butter into small cubes and add them to the flour mixture. Using your fingers or a pastry cutter, blend the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse breadcrumbs. This step is crucial for achieving the flaky, tender texture of the patty crust.
- Form the Dough: Create a well in the center of the flour-butter mixture and slowly add the chilled water, a little at a time. Gently mix the water into the flour until a soft dough forms. Be careful not to overwork the dough—just enough to bring it together. Once the dough has come together, wrap it in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least one hour to firm up.
Preparing the Vegetable Filling
- Cook the Vegetables: While the dough is chilling, heat the coconut oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, ginger-garlic paste, and bell pepper. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onions turn translucent and the vegetables begin to soften.
- Add the Rest of the Veggies: Stir in the cabbage, tomato, and mixed vegetables (such as peas, beans, carrots, or corn). Continue to cook the vegetables for an additional 5 minutes, allowing them to soften and blend together. The vegetables should be tender but not mushy.
- Season the Filling: Add the salt, paprika, allspice powder, nutmeg, and cinnamon. Stir well to combine and cook for another 2 minutes to allow the spices to infuse the vegetables. Remove the mixture from heat and let it cool down to room temperature.
Assembling the Patties
- Prepare the Dough: After the dough has chilled, remove it from the refrigerator. Divide it into 10 equal portions. On a lightly floured surface, roll each portion into a 6-inch circle. This is the base for your patty.
- Fill the Patties: Brush a little water around the edge of each dough circle to help seal the patty. Place about 2 to 3 tablespoons of the vegetable filling in the center of each circle.
- Shape the Patties: Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Press the edges together to seal, and then crimp the edges with a fork to ensure they stay sealed while baking. Using the fork, gently pierce the center of each patty to allow steam to escape during baking. This will help prevent the patties from bursting open.
- Apply Butter: For a golden, shiny finish, lightly brush the top of each patty with melted butter.
Baking the Patties
- Bake: Preheat your oven to 215°C (425°F). Place the assembled patties on a lightly oiled baking sheet, making sure they are spaced apart. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the patties are golden brown and crisp on the outside.
- Cool and Serve: Once baked, remove the patties from the oven and allow them to cool slightly before serving. These patties are best enjoyed hot, straight from the oven, with your favorite dipping sauce or chutney on the side.
Serving Suggestions
These Caribbean Vegetable Patties make a perfect snack, appetizer, or party food. Pair them with a tangy tamarind chutney, a cooling yogurt dip, or even a simple avocado salsa for a delightful combination of textures and flavors. They are great for picnics, potlucks, or as a vegetarian alternative to meat-filled hand pies.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount (Per Serving) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 250-300 |
| Total Fat | 12-15 g |
| Saturated Fat | 6-8 g |
| Carbohydrates | 30-35 g |
| Fiber | 3-4 g |
| Protein | 4-5 g |
| Sodium | 250-350 mg |
| Sugar | 4-6 g |
Pro Tips
- Make-Ahead: The dough can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 2 days. If you want to freeze the patties, assemble them and place them on a baking sheet in the freezer until solid, then transfer them to a ziplock bag. Bake from frozen, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the cooking time.
- Flavor Variations: Feel free to customize the vegetable filling to your taste. Add or substitute ingredients like carrots, peas, sweet potatoes, or even spinach for a unique twist.
- Vegan Option: To make these patties vegan, simply replace the butter with plant-based butter and ensure that the filling contains no dairy.
Enjoy these Caribbean Vegetable Patties fresh from the oven, and experience a taste of the Caribbean in every bite!
