British
Bubble and Squeak
A traditional British fry-up of leftover potatoes and cabbage, cooked until the underside is deeply golden and crisp. It is hearty, plain, and especially good with a fried egg or leftover roast meat.
Ingredients
- Cooked floury potatoes, roughly mashed450g
- Cooked cabbage or Brussels sprouts, finely chopped200g
- Small onion, finely sliced1
- Butter25g
- Beef dripping or vegetable oil1 tbsp
- Fine sea salt1/2 tsp
- Black pepper1/4 tsp
- Fried eggs, to serve2
Method
- If the cooked potatoes are cold from the fridge, break them up with a fork so they are rough rather than smooth.
- Mix the mashed potatoes with the chopped cabbage or Brussels sprouts, salt, and black pepper.
- Heat a heavy frying pan over medium heat and add the butter and beef dripping.
- Add the sliced onion and cook for 5 minutes, stirring often, until softened and lightly golden.
- Add the potato and cabbage mixture to the pan and press it down firmly into one thick cake.
- Cook without moving for 8 to 10 minutes, until the bottom is well browned and crisp.
- Turn the cake over in large sections with a spatula, then press it back together in the pan.
- Cook for another 6 to 8 minutes, until crisp and golden in patches with soft potato inside.
- Serve hot, divided between two plates, with a fried egg on top if liked.
Common questions
Can I substitute the cabbage or Brussels sprouts in bubble and squeak?
Yes. Use any cooked, finely chopped leftover green veg, like savoy cabbage, kale, or even shredded leek. Avoid watery vegetables unless you squeeze them dry, or the mixture can turn soft and fail to crisp.
How long should bubble and squeak cook so it gets crispy without drying out?
After pressing it into a thick cake, cook the first side undisturbed for 8 to 10 minutes over medium heat, then 6 to 8 minutes after turning. Keep the heat moderate so the outside browns before the inside dries out.
What are the most common mistakes when making bubble and squeak?
Using potatoes that are too smooth or wet, stirring the cake while it cooks, and flipping too early are the main problems. Also avoid overcrowding the pan; the mixture needs firm contact with the surface to form a crisp crust.
Can I store leftover bubble and squeak, and how do I reheat it?
Yes. Cool it quickly, then refrigerate in a covered container for up to 2 days. Reheat in a frying pan over medium heat until hot and crisp again, or use an oven; microwaving will soften the crust.
What should I serve with bubble and squeak besides a fried egg?
It works well with bacon, sausages, baked beans, or grilled tomatoes for a hearty breakfast or brunch. For a lighter meal, serve it with a simple green salad and a spoonful of mustard or brown sauce.