Bubble and Squeak Recipe Vegetarian Style Made Easy

Bubble and squeak is a classic British dish traditionally made by frying leftover vegetables, mainly cabbage and potatoes, until they form a deliciously crispy and golden cake. Perfect for using up any veggies lingering in your fridge, this vegetarian bubble and squeak recipe transforms humble ingredients into a comforting, hearty meal.

Whether you’re after a satisfying breakfast, brunch, or a light dinner, this recipe delivers a wonderful balance of textures and flavors that everyone will enjoy.

This vegetarian version focuses on fresh, wholesome vegetables and simple seasonings that highlight the natural sweetness and earthiness of the produce. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make, budget-friendly, and versatile enough to adapt with whatever veggies you have on hand.

If you love rustic, nourishing dishes that come together quickly, keep reading to discover why this bubble and squeak recipe will become a staple in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are so many reasons to fall in love with this vegetarian bubble and squeak! First, it’s an excellent way to reduce food waste by using up leftover or slightly wilted vegetables.

The crispy edges paired with the soft potato base create a delightful contrast that is hard to resist.

Additionally, this recipe is extremely flexible — you can swap in your favorite seasonal vegetables or pantry staples to keep things interesting. It’s naturally vegetarian and can easily be made vegan by choosing appropriate oils or butter substitutes.

The dish is also packed with fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making it a nutritious option for any meal.

Finally, bubble and squeak is a comforting, nostalgic dish that’s perfect for cozy mornings or casual dinners. It pairs beautifully with eggs, chutneys, or a fresh salad, making it both satisfying and versatile.

Ingredients

• 500g potatoes (about 3 medium-sized), peeled and chopped
• 1 small head of cabbage, finely shredded
• 2 carrots, grated
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or butter
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
• 1 teaspoon mustard (optional, for a tangy kick)
• 1 teaspoon soy sauce (optional, enhances umami)

Equipment

• Large pot for boiling potatoes
• Large frying pan or skillet
• Mixing bowl
• Potato masher or fork
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Knife and chopping board

Instructions

1. Boil the potatoes: Place the peeled and chopped potatoes into a large pot of salted boiling water. Cook for about 15-20 minutes or until tender when pierced with a fork.
2. Prepare the vegetables: While the potatoes are cooking, finely shred the cabbage, grate the carrots, and chop the onion.
3. Sauté the vegetables: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil or butter in a large frying pan over medium heat. Add the onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the shredded cabbage and grated carrots, cooking for another 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender and some moisture has evaporated. Season with salt and pepper. If using, stir in the mustard and soy sauce for extra flavor.
4. Mash the potatoes: Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Mash them until smooth but slightly chunky for texture. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Combine vegetables and potatoes: Add the sautéed vegetables to the mashed potatoes and mix well until fully combined.
6. Form and cook bubble and squeak cakes: Heat the remaining tablespoon of oil or butter in the frying pan over medium heat. Shape the potato and vegetable mixture into patties (about the size of your palm). Fry each patty for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy on the outside.
7. Serve: Place the cooked bubble and squeak on a plate, garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired, and serve hot.

Tips & Variations

Tip: Use leftover roasted or steamed vegetables like peas, green beans, or Brussels sprouts to add extra flavor and color to your bubble and squeak.

Variation: For a vegan version, swap butter for olive oil or vegan margarine. You can also try adding nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy.

Tip: Press the patties firmly before frying to help them hold together better and achieve a crispier crust.

Variation: Add some minced garlic or fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the vegetable mix for a more aromatic dish.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Vegetarian bubble and squeak is wonderfully versatile and pairs well with many accompaniments. For a classic British breakfast, serve with fried or poached eggs and a side of baked beans or grilled tomatoes.

You can also enjoy it as a light lunch with a crisp green salad and a dollop of tangy mustard or chutney.

For a heartier meal, add a side of sautéed mushrooms or a creamy mushroom sauce. This dish also works beautifully alongside steamed greens or roasted root vegetables for a nutritious dinner.

Don’t forget to try it with a dollop of your favorite plant-based yogurt or sour cream for added richness.

If you’re interested in exploring more creative vegetarian recipes, you might love our Lemon Ricotta Pasta With Arugula Recipe or the comforting Harvest Hash Recipe: A Delicious and Easy Fall Comfort Food.

Conclusion

Vegetarian bubble and squeak is a delightful dish that brings together the best of simple, wholesome ingredients into a crispy, comforting meal. It is an excellent way to utilize leftover vegetables, making it not only tasty but also sustainable and budget-friendly.

The ease of preparation and flexibility to customize with your favorite veggies make this recipe a fantastic addition to any weeknight dinner or weekend brunch.

Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting out, this recipe offers a satisfying way to enjoy seasonal produce and create a warm, nostalgic dish that everyone will love. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different vegetables and seasonings to make this recipe your own.

For more delicious and creative recipes, check out our Horse Cough Syrup Recipe or the flavorful Instant Pot Rabbit Recipe.

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