Meet British import Bubble and Squeak, the cheeky hero of the leftover world, about to surprise you with one delicious breakfast. British cuisine, known for its comforting and hearty meals, has dishes with names that are sure to bring a smile to your face. These whimsically named dishes often have histories as rich and intriguing as their flavors. We truly enjoyed cooking Toad in the Hole, Welsh Rarebit and Lancashire Hotpot in our GypsyPlate Kitchen, bringing back memories of our England Travels. Now today’s Bubble and Squeak has been on our radar for many years, and we were amazed at the flavors simple leftovers can create, just by frying them to perfect crispiness. Somehow all the flavors from the veggies get accentuated when frying in butter or lard. Those Britishers sure know how to indulge in a proper Monday breakfast after a full on Sunday roast dinner! This dish gets its whimsical name from the playful sounds it makes as it sizzles and fries in the pan. So, let’s learn about Bubble and Squeak, where the humble potato and its vegetable companions become the stars of a dish that’s as fun to make as it is to eat.
What is Bubble and Squeak?
Bubble and Squeak is a classic and quintessential British dish that has its origins in 18th century England. It is a brilliant example of culinary ingenuity, transforming leftovers into a delightful and satisfying meal. Traditionally made with the remnants of a Sunday Roast dinner or Christmas dinner, specifically roasted potatoes and a mix of vegetables like peas, carrots, and cabbage, this dish is pan-fried until the ingredients combine into a crispy, golden hash or a patty. The name “Bubble and Squeak” charmingly refers to the sounds the mixture makes as it cooks, bubbling and squeaking in the pan. The mixture is fried to achieve a crispy, caramelized exterior, offering a contrast to the soft, flavorful interior. Bubble and Squeak can be served in two ways: as a hash or formed into a large patty or a cake. Mashed or roasted potatoes act as the binder to hold the rest of the ingredients. Some recipes call for eggs along with veggie mixture if forming smaller patties. It’s a testament to British resourcefulness, turning leftovers into a comfort food staple. Served with a side of fried or poached eggs and bacon, Bubble and Squeak transforms leftovers into a comforting and classic meal, perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
Ingredients Needed
Oil and Butter: For frying and adding flavor. They help in crisping Bubble and Squeak as well. Some cooks also use lard or leftover pan drippings. Potatoes: Roasted or mashed, they form the base. Vegetables: Leftovers like peas, corn, broccoli, cabbage, and carrots. Basically, whatever leftover veggies you have. Seasonings: Salt and pepper for basic seasoning. Eggs: Fried or poached, served on top. Bacon: Optional, for garnish and extra flavor.
Bubble and Squeak Recipe
You can make this British classic in two popular methods. The first “hash” style Bubble and Squeak turns out more crispy, and is traditionally served in small restaurants and taverns. For either method, first you will want to finely chop all of your vegetables and mash everything into a coarse mixture. Traditional Fry: Mash together roasted or mashed potatoes and chopped vegetables. Heat oil and butter in a pan, then add the mixture and press it down uniformly. Fry until the bottom caramelizes, then stir and press down, repeating until crispy and browned throughout. Patty Form: After frying the mixture as in the traditional method, instead of serving as is, press it into a large patty in the pan. Cook until one side is crispy, then carefully flip the entire patty to crisp the other side.
Alpana’s Tips
Bubble and Squeak is a fun and smart way to turn your leftovers into a yummy meal. It’s all about being creative with what you have in your fridge, like mixing up old potatoes and veggies to make something new and tasty. You can try different mixes every time, making it your own special dish. So the next time you’ve got some leftovers, think of Bubble and Squeak as your go-to recipe for making something delicious and cozy. It’s a cool way to save food and enjoy cooking. Now we know what we are cooking every Boxing Day or on Friday after Thanksgiving here at the Beisers’.
Bubble and Squeak, on our Gypsy Plate… enjoy!
Try these other breakfast and brunch ideas:Biscuits and GravyTurkish MenemenEggs CochonDutch BabyDenver OmeletteShrimp and GritsEggs BhurjiShakshuka
