I remember the first time I had bubble and squeak-it was at a cozy little pub in England. My friend ordered it without hesitation, and when it arrived, the smell was so comforting. The crispy, golden exterior and the fluffy, vegetable-packed interior made every bite a little taste of home. It was one of those simple dishes that really gets under your skin, especially when you add some crisp bacon or a fried egg on top.
Bubble and squeak is one of those traditional British comfort foods. It was originally made from leftovers-typically the vegetables from a Sunday roast-and pan-fried the next day. But what really makes it magical is how the dish balances crispy and soft textures, with a satisfying flavor mix of cabbage, potatoes, and whatever other veggies you’ve got on hand.
Jamie Oliver’s take on bubble and squeak elevates this classic dish to new heights. His recipe uses basic ingredients but turns them into something more exciting. Let’s dive into what makes his version so special.
Jamie Oliver’s Bubble And Squeak Patties Recipe
Jamie’s bubble and squeak patties are crispy, golden delights with the perfect balance of flavors. Here’s how I like to break it down:
- Simplicity at its best: His version focuses on just the right amount of seasoning and texture, transforming everyday leftovers into a star dish.
- Perfectly crispy: These patties don’t just stay soft-they crisp up beautifully on the outside, offering that satisfying crunch.
- Flavor-packed: With a hint of garlic, herbs, and a dash of mustard, the patties go beyond the usual potato and cabbage combination.
- Endless possibilities: The beauty of this recipe is its versatility-you can add anything from cheese to roasted veggies.
Ingredients Needed
When I make Jamie Oliver’s Bubble And Squeak Patties, I gather a handful of straightforward ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Potatoes: 2 large, boiled and mashed
- Cabbage: 1 cup, finely chopped (you can also use other leafy greens like kale or spinach)
- Carrot: 1 medium, grated
- Garlic: 1 clove, minced
- Mustard: 1 tsp (a tangy addition for extra flavor)
- Fresh herbs: 1 tbsp parsley or thyme (feel free to experiment with other herbs)
- Egg: 1 large (helps bind everything together)
- Breadcrumbs: About ½ cup (for that crispy coating)
- Salt and pepper: To taste
- Olive oil: For frying (or butter if you want extra richness)
If you’ve got leftovers from dinner, you can easily swap out some of these ingredients. Leftover roasted potatoes, for example, work wonderfully in place of fresh mashed potatoes.
How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Bubble And Squeak Patties
Making Jamie Oliver’s Bubble and Squeak patties is one of those recipes that feels like second nature. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Prep your potatoes: Boil your potatoes until soft, then mash them well. A little butter or milk can be added, but the mash shouldn’t be too creamy. It needs to hold its shape.
- Cook the cabbage: Sauté the chopped cabbage with a little olive oil or butter for about 5 minutes until softened. If you like, you can toss in some garlic for a bit of aromatic flavor.
- Combine ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, sautéed cabbage, grated carrot, mustard, and herbs. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Bind it all together: Beat the egg and mix it into the bowl, followed by a handful of breadcrumbs. Stir everything together until it forms a thick, sticky mixture.
- Shape the patties: Take a spoonful of the mixture and form it into a patty. You want these to be about 1 inch thick.
- Fry until crispy: Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Fry the patties for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden and crispy.
- Serve: Once they’re perfectly crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, serve them with your choice of sauce or a fried egg on top.
Ingredient Science Spotlight
You might not think about it, but the ingredients in this recipe each play an important role in how the dish turns out. Here’s the science behind some of the key ingredients:
- Potatoes: They provide the structure for the patties, and their starch helps bind everything together. The starchy texture also contributes to that soft, pillowy inside.
- Cabbage: Rich in fiber and antioxidants, cabbage gives the patties their signature texture and a slightly sweet flavor when sautéed. The high water content in cabbage also helps keep the patties moist.
- Breadcrumbs: These act like a crispy shell that creates that satisfying crunch when frying. The starch in the breadcrumbs also helps absorb some of the moisture from the veggies and potatoes, making them less soggy.
- Egg: It’s the glue that holds everything together, making the patties firm enough to fry without falling apart. Plus, eggs bring richness and a slight savory flavor.
Expert Tips
- Add a kick: If you like a little heat, add a pinch of chili flakes or some finely chopped fresh chili to the mixture.
- Don’t over-mash the potatoes: For perfect texture, mash the potatoes just enough to break them up, but leave some lumps. This makes the patties fluffier.
- Cool before frying: If you have time, let the patties sit in the fridge for about 30 minutes before frying. This helps them firm up and hold their shape better.
- Use a non-stick pan: This will help prevent the patties from sticking and ensure that crispy exterior without the mess.
Recipe Variations
While Jamie Oliver’s recipe is a winner as it is, there’s room to play around. Here are a few fun variations you can try:
- Cheese lovers: Add a handful of grated cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or even blue cheese) into the mixture for a gooey, cheesy surprise in every bite.
- Meat option: You could add some leftover roast chicken or bacon bits for a meaty twist.
- Spicy twist: Experiment with different mustards, or try adding some curry powder or smoked paprika for a deeper flavor profile.
- Vegan version: Swap the egg with a flaxseed egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseeds mixed with 3 tbsp water) and use vegan butter or oil for frying.
Final Words
This recipe is so versatile-it’s not just a way to use up leftovers, but a chance to create something truly comforting. You can add a variety of vegetables, meats, or even cheeses to suit your tastes. Whether you eat it as a snack, a side dish, or the main event, these patties are bound to be a crowd-pleaser.
FAQs
What Ingredients Do I Need For Jamie Oliver’s Bubble And Squeak Patties?
You’ll need mashed potatoes, leftover cooked vegetables like cabbage or Brussels sprouts, flour, egg, and some seasoning like salt and pepper.
Can I Make Bubble And Squeak Patties In Advance?
Yes, you can make them ahead of time. Shape the patties, store them in the fridge, and fry them when you’re ready to serve.
How Do I Get My Bubble And Squeak Patties Crispy?
Make sure the pan is hot before adding the patties and use a good amount of oil. Flip them carefully to get both sides crispy.