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fry up - potatoes and cabbage

Bubble and Squeak Recipe

By Jon Andrew

About This Recipe

This is an old school classic, one of my Dads favourites. Bubble & Squeak or Fry up is made from Cabbage and Mash, mixed together and fried in a pan, of course you can throw any leftover vegetables such as Swede into this.

Back in the 80's Bubble and Squeak was a way for folks to make food go further and it became a family favourite. Fry-up can be served on its own or often these days with fried eggs. ...

History of Bubble and Squeak
Bubble and Squeak is a traditional British dish that has its roots in the culinary practices of the 19th century, particularly among the working class.

The name itself is quite evocative, referring to the bubbling and squeaking sounds that the dish makes while it cooks. Typically, it consists of leftover vegetables, especially potatoes and cabbage, which are fried together in a pan until they achieve a crispy texture.

The dish was born out of necessity, as families sought to minimize food waste by repurposing leftovers from previous meals. Over time, Bubble and Squeak has evolved, with variations that may include additional ingredients like meat or other vegetables, but the core concept remains the same: a hearty, comforting meal that embodies the spirit of thriftiness and resourcefulness.

Today, it is often enjoyed as a breakfast item or a side dish, celebrated for its simplicity and the way it brings together flavors in a delightful, rustic manner.

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Serves: Two

Easy

Cook in: 20 min

Prep: 10 min

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What equipment do you need ?

Mixing Bowl

Frying Pan

Sharp Knife

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What is Bubble and Squeak?

Bubble and Squeak is also called a British Fry Up, this is because it is a classic British recipe for using up left over food from a Sunday roast, namely Cabbage and Potatoes.

The dish gets it's name 'Bubble and Squeak' from the fact that when it is cooking the fry up spits and bubbles and makes a high pitched sound that sounds like it's squeaking.

In this recipe I have added ham or bacon to the dish, but this was not traditionally done. ...

Variations of Bubble and Squeak
Bubble and Squeak can be prepared in various ways, allowing for a range of flavours and textures.

Traditionally made from leftover vegetables and potatoes, this dish can be customized by incorporating different ingredients such as meats, cheeses, or spices.

The versatility of Bubble and Squeak makes it an appealing option for utilizing surplus produce, while also offering a comforting and hearty meal.

Each variation can reflect personal preferences or regional influences, showcasing the dish's adaptability in both home kitchens and professional settings.

How to make Bubble and Squeak

serving tray Cuisine:British
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Ingredients Nutrition Cost
500 g Mash Potato
300 g Cabbage
100 g Smoked Bacon (Diced)
50 g Butter
2 teaspoons of English Mustard
Salt & Pepper for seasoning

Egg freeNut free

Nutrition:
This is per 200g portion.

Calories: 176
Protein: 10g
Fat: 5.3g
Carbohydrates: 24g
Fiber: 3.4g
Sugar: 4g

Low calorieHig Carbs.Low sugar

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Cost to make:
£2.89/ $3.66(Est.)

*Prices may vary.

Cooking Instructions

  1. Melt the butter in a frying pan.
  2. Add the diced smoked bacon to the pan and fry for a few minutes, until the bacon is cooked.
  3. In a separate bowl mix 2 teaspoons of English mustard into the Mash.
  4. Add the Cabbage to the Mustard Mash.
  5. Season the bacon with Salt & Pepper.
  6. Add the Mash & Cabbage to the pan and flatten out to fill the pan.
  7. Cook on one side until almost burned.
  8. Slide the Bubble & Squeak onto a plate, then put the pan over the top so that you can turn it over.
  9. Cook the other side for the same amount of time.
  10. When the Bubble and Squeak is piping hot and fully cooked it is ready to serve.
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Chefs Tips for making Bubble & Squeak

Is Bubble and Squeak suitable for vegetarians?

Bubble and Squeak can be suitable for vegetarians, as it primarily consists of leftover vegetables, often including potatoes and cabbage, which are plant-based ingredients.

What type of potatoes are best for Bubble and Squeak?

When preparing Bubble and Squeak, the ideal choice of potatoes is typically starchy varieties, such as Maris Piper or King Edward. These types have a high starch content, which contributes to a fluffy texture when mashed.

Can I freeze Bubble and Squeak?

Yes, you can freeze Bubble and Squeak. However, it is important to consider that the texture may change upon thawing, potentially becoming softer.

What is the best way to serve Bubble and Squeak?

To serve Bubble and Squeak effectively, it is recommended to present it hot, allowing the flavours to meld beautifully. Accompanying the dish with a dollop of tangy pickles or a side of crisp salad can enhance its taste and texture.

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