Bubble and Squeak

Bubble and Squeak Recipe - Traditional British Dish

Region / culture: United Kingdom | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 45 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Bubble and Squeak is a traditional British dish made from leftover vegetables, typically potatoes and greens, that are fried or baked together. It is a delicious and hearty dish that is perfect for using up leftovers and creating a new meal.

History

Bubble and Squeak originated in England in the 18th century as a way to use up leftover vegetables from a Sunday roast. The name "Bubble and Squeak" comes from the sound the dish makes while cooking in the pan - the bubbling and squeaking of the vegetables as they fry.

Ingredients

0.25 cup of melted butter
1 medium onion, chopped
1 lb (454 g) of cooked and coarsely mashed potatoes
1 lb (454 g) of cooked cabbage, kale, or other greens
3 tbsp of toasted bread crumbs
salt
pepper
additional butter or drippings

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to 400°F (204°C).
Grease a 2 qt (1.89 liter) baking dish.
In a medium skillet over medium heat, heat the butter.
Add the onion and cook for about 5 minutes.
In a large bowl, mix the potatoes and greens.
Stir in the onions and bread crumbs.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Transfer the mixture to the baking dish.
Cover with foil and bake for 45 minutes.
To serve, spoon into a serving dish and drizzle with additional melted butter if desired.

Variations

Add cooked bacon or ham for a meaty twist.
Mix in grated cheese for a cheesy version of Bubble and Squeak.
Use sweet potatoes or squash instead of regular potatoes for a different flavor profile.

Notes

If sausage is desired, add 1 lb (454 g) bulk pork sausage, crumbled and browned to above ingredients.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to cook the onions until they are soft and translucent before adding them to the potato and greens mixture.

- Be sure to season the dish well with salt and pepper to enhance the flavors of the vegetables.

- For a crispy crust, cook the Bubble and Squeak in a cast iron skillet on the stovetop instead of baking it in the oven.

Serving Suggestions

Bubble and Squeak is traditionally served as a side dish with a roast dinner, but it can also be enjoyed on its own as a main course. Serve with a dollop of sour cream or ketchup for added flavor.

Cooking Techniques

Bubble and Squeak can be cooked either on the stovetop in a skillet or baked in the oven. Both methods will result in a delicious and crispy dish.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use any leftover vegetables you have on hand, such as carrots, peas, or Brussels sprouts.

- Substitute olive oil for butter for a dairy-free version of the dish.

Make Ahead Tips

Bubble and Squeak can be made ahead of time and reheated in the oven or on the stovetop. Simply cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Bubble and Squeak in a rustic serving dish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Bubble and Squeak pairs well with roasted meats, such as chicken, beef, or lamb. It also goes well with a side of gravy or cranberry sauce.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

One serving of Bubble and Squeak contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

Bubble and Squeak is a carbohydrate-rich dish due to the potatoes and bread crumbs. One serving contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Bubble and Squeak is a moderate-fat dish, with the main source of fat coming from the butter used for cooking. One serving contains approximately 10 grams of fat.

Proteins

Bubble and Squeak is a low-protein dish, with most of the protein coming from the greens. One serving contains approximately 3 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Bubble and Squeak is a good source of vitamins and minerals, particularly vitamin C from the greens and potassium from the potatoes. It also contains iron, calcium, and vitamin A.

Alergens

Bubble and Squeak contains dairy (butter) and gluten (bread crumbs), so it may not be suitable for those with dairy or gluten allergies.

Summary

Bubble and Squeak is a nutritious and filling dish that is high in carbohydrates and moderate in fats. It is a good source of vitamins and minerals, but may not be suitable for those with dairy or gluten allergies.

Summary

Bubble and Squeak is a classic British dish that is perfect for using up leftover vegetables. It is a hearty and delicious meal that is easy to make and full of flavor. Serve it as a side dish or main course for a comforting and satisfying meal.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately drawn to it. It was a cold winter's day and I was flipping through an old cookbook that had been passed down to me from my mother. The recipe was titled "Bubble and Squeak" and the description described it as a delicious way to use up leftover vegetables and meat from a Sunday roast.

I had never heard of Bubble and Squeak before, but the name alone piqued my curiosity. I decided to give it a try, so I gathered up the remnants of our Sunday dinner – some leftover mashed potatoes, roasted carrots, and a bit of beef from the roast – and got to work.

As I chopped and sautéed and mashed, the kitchen filled with the comforting smells of home cooking. The sizzle of the vegetables hitting the hot pan, the sputtering of the beef as it browned, the soft bubbling of the mashed potatoes as they heated through – it all felt like a warm hug from my past.

I thought back to my own mother, who had taught me so much about cooking. She was a whiz in the kitchen, able to whip up a delicious meal out of the most meager ingredients. She had taught me how to make the perfect roast, how to bake light and fluffy cakes, how to simmer a flavorful stew. And now, as I stirred my bubbling pot of Bubble and Squeak, I felt her presence with me, guiding my hand and whispering tips in my ear.

The dish came together beautifully – a crispy, golden-brown crust on the outside, a soft and savory mixture of vegetables and meat on the inside. I scooped it onto plates for my family, who dug in eagerly and pronounced it a new favorite.

From that day on, Bubble and Squeak became a staple in our household. Whenever we had leftovers from a roast dinner, I would transform them into this delicious dish, much to the delight of my loved ones. It became a symbol of comfort and tradition, a way to connect with the past while nourishing the present.

Over the years, I experimented with the recipe, adding different ingredients and spices to suit the season or my mood. Sometimes I would throw in some leftover ham or bacon for extra flavor, or a handful of fresh herbs from my garden. Other times, I would serve it with a dollop of tangy mustard or a drizzle of rich gravy.

But no matter how I tweaked the recipe, the essence of Bubble and Squeak remained the same – a humble and hearty dish that brought joy and warmth to all who ate it. And as I shared the recipe with friends and family, passing it on to the next generation, I knew that it would continue to bring comfort and connection for years to come.

So now, as I sit here penning this tale of how I learned to make Bubble and Squeak, I am filled with gratitude for all the knowledge and love that has been passed down to me through the generations. Cooking is so much more than just following a recipe – it is a way to honor the past, celebrate the present, and create a legacy for the future.

And so, I will continue to cook and share and savor each meal, knowing that with every bite, I am connecting to my roots and nourishing my soul. And I hope that whoever reads this story will be inspired to do the same – to cook with love, to savor each bite, and to keep the flame of tradition burning bright.