Ultimate Comfort Food: Delicious Bubble and Squeak Recipe

Ah, bubble and squeak… just saying it brings back such cozy memories. Picture this: a chilled Sunday afternoon, leftover veggies from last night’s roast lining the counter, and that irresistible smell of potatoes sizzling in a pan. It’s like a warm hug on a plate. This dish has a knack for turning what might be seen as scraps into something truly delightful—it’s all about that crunchy exterior with a soft, comforting center. You know, it’s funny how something so simple can feel like a feast!

Why You’ll Crave It

• It’s perfect for using up all those veggies hanging around in the fridge.
• So satisfying! the crispy edges give you that delightful crunch you crave.
• You can whip it up pretty quickly, even on a busy weeknight.
• Layer on cheese or a fried egg for extra flavor. Trust me, you’ll thank yourself.
• Everyone can customize it—it’s basically a blank canvas for whatever you feel like.

The first time I made this, my little brother actually tried to calculate how many patties he could eat in one sitting…

What You’ll Need

• Potatoes: 500g, preferably Maris Piper, they’re just so fluffy when mashed!
• Cabbage: 200g, shredded, gives it that perfect crunch.
• Carrots: 150g, grated—adds a nice sweetness.
• Onion: 1 medium, finely chopped, for that aromatic base flavor.
• Butter: 50g, because, well, it’s butter—what more can I say?
• Olive oil: just enough for frying, to get that lovely golden crust.
• Salt and Black Pepper: to taste—seasoning is key, don’t skip it!

Easy How-To

Prep the Vegetables

Alright, so first up, peel and chop those potatoes. You want them into even pieces so they cook through nicely. And don’t forget to prep any other veggies you’ve got sitting around—like leftover cabbage or even some Brussels sprouts if you’re feeling adventurous. It’s all about cleaning out that fridge!

Boil the Potatoes

Now, toss those potatoes into a big pot, cover them with cold water, add a little pinch of salt, and bring it all to a boil. You want them tender, so… maybe about 15-20 minutes? Just keep an eye on them, you don’t want them mushy.

Drain and Mash Potatoes

Once they’re tender, drain them well (careful of steam—it’s hot!) and back into the pot they go. Time to mash! I like to use a potato masher, but if you’re feeling nostalgic, a fork works too. Just get them nice and smooth, no lumps allowed!

Add Other Vegetables

Alright, now mix in all those other cooked veggies, stir them together nice and evenly. You want every bite to be full of flavor. The colors just make it so pretty, right?

Season the Mixture

Time to season! Sprinkle in salt and pepper, then add in that lovely butter. It helps everything come together nicely. Just make sure you’re mixing it well. You want it all comfy and cozy—a bit like a hug from the inside!

Shape It Up

Now, with clean hands (always a good start), shape that mixture into, uh, well, pretty large patties. They should hold together easily, but don’t stress if a couple fall apart. It’s all going to taste delicious regardless!

Heat the Oil

Alright, let’s get our frying pan ready. Drizzle in some olive oil and warm it up over medium heat. You want it hot, hot enough that when you add the patties, you hear that sizzle. It means crispy vibes are coming!

Cook the Patties

Carefully place those patties in the hot oil… they should sizzle as they hit the pan! Fry about 5-7 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown and, uh, crispy. Keep an eye on them… pat them down gently if they puff up too much. Flipping them is like a delicate dance, right?

Serve and Enjoy

When they’re done, lift them out and let them rest on some paper towels to drain off excess oil. Serve them warm—you’ll want to dig right in!

Good to Know

• You can totally mix in whatever leftover veggies you have—just get creative!
• If you’re going the vegan route, use olive oil instead of butter. Still delicious, I promise!
• These patties are great as leftovers too, just pop them in the fridge and reheat in a skillet for that crispy delight again.

Serving Ideas

• Top with a fried egg for breakfast—talk about comfort food!

Top Tricks

• For an extra kick, sprinkle in some fresh herbs or even a touch of cheese before frying—instant upgrade!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use leftover vegetables for bubble and squeak?

Oh, definitely! It’s, like, perfect for using up those leftover veggies. You know, it’s sustainable and super tasty.

What type of potatoes work best for this dish?

I would recommend floury potatoes like Maris Piper or King Edward—they get fluffy when mashed, which is just what you want.

Can I make bubble and squeak in advance?

You sure can! Prep the veggies ahead of time, then just pan-fry them when you’re ready to enjoy a cozy meal.

What can I serve with bubble and squeak?

It pairs so nicely with fried eggs, sausages, or even a crisp salad on the side for balance. Perfect for any meal!

Is bubble and squeak suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, totally! It’s a lovely vegetarian dish as it’s mostly veggies and potatoes. Just check any additional ingredients and you’re good to go.

Conclusion

Bubble and squeak is truly a gem—a dish that turns leftovers into something heartwarming and satisfying. With its versatility, each cooking session can turn into a little experimental adventure in the kitchen. So dive in, mix and match those flavors, and really enjoy the process of creating something uniquely yours!

More recipe suggestions and combinations

Bubble and Squeak with Smoked Salmon

Add some smoked salmon for that touch of luxury—perfect for brunch!

Spiced Bubble and Squeak

Mix in some spices, like cumin or paprika, for a warm kick.

Cheesy Bubble and Squeak

Don’t hold back on that cheese! Cheddar melts perfectly into the mix, mmm.

Bubble and Squeak Cakes

Form those patties, breadcrumb them, and fry for a crispy treat. Delicious!

Vegetarian Bubble and Squeak

Use a rainbow of vegetables, like spinach and bell peppers—makes it fresh and vibrant.

Herbed Bubble and Squeak

Chop in some fresh herbs for a burst of freshness—so fragrant!