Jamie Oliver’s Bubble and Squeak Patties is his twist on the classic British dish that traditionally uses leftover vegetables from a Sunday roast. Typically, it’s a mash-up of cabbage, potatoes and whatever veggies are left, all fried up together in a crispy patty form. Jamie’s version is a bit more refined and uses fresh ingredients but the core concept remains the same: a comforting, savory patty full of leftover goodness that’s fried to golden perfection.
The name ’Bubble and Squeak’ comes from the sounds the ingredients make when they’re cooked together in a pan – a fun, quirky detail that ties into the dish’s homey, no-fuss vibe. In Jamie’s recipe, he takes it up a notch, making these patties a little more exciting with added spices and herbs, making them perfect for a cozy breakfast, lunch or dinner.
Jamie Oliver Bubble And Squeak Patties Recipe
Ingredients Needed
The ingredients are simple but pack a lot of flavor when combined. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need:
- Potatoes (about 4 medium-sized) – These form the base of the patties. They get mashed and give the dish its comforting texture.
- Cabbage (1 small head). Traditionally used in bubble and squeak, the cabbage adds crunch and a slight bitterness that balances out the richness of the potatoes.
- Carrots (2 medium) – Adds a touch of sweetness and color to the dish.
- Spring onions (a bunch). A fresh, mild onion flavor that complements the other ingredients.
- Egg (1 large) – Helps bind everything together.
- Breadcrumbs – For binding and giving the patties a crispy, golden crust when fried.
- Cheese (optional, like cheddar). A bit of cheese can be grated into the mix for extra flavor, though it’s not always part of the classic recipe.
- Fresh herbs (parsley or thyme). Fresh herbs add freshness and depth.
- Salt and pepper – To season and bring all the flavors together.
- Olive oil – For frying the patties.
Equipment Needed
The kitchen tools you need for Jamie Oliver’s Bubble and Squeak Patties are pretty minimal, so you won’t need to haul out anything fancy.
- Large pot – For boiling the potatoes and vegetables.
- Frying pan – To crisp up the patties on both sides.
- Large mixing bowl – To combine the mashed potatoes and veggies.
- Potato masher or fork. For mashing the potatoes and veggies together.
- Grater (optional) – If you want to grate your cheese and carrots.
- Spatula – To flip the patties without breaking them.
- Measuring spoons – For precision with seasoning (though this can be more of a ’eyeball it’ situation).
How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Bubble And Squeak Patties
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Prep the Veggies:
Start by peeling and chopping the potatoes into chunks. Toss them into a pot of salted boiling water and cook them until they’re tender – usually about 12-15 minutes. While the potatoes are cooking, chop the cabbage, carrots and spring onions. You can either finely chop or grate them depending on your texture preference.
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Cook the Vegetables:
In a separate pan, heat some olive oil over medium heat. Add the cabbage and carrots, stirring occasionally, until they soften and start to caramelize a little. Throw in the spring onions towards the end, just long enough for them to soften but retain their color and flavor.
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Mash and Mix:
Drain your potatoes and mash them with a bit of butter or olive oil. Add the cooked veggies to the mashed potatoes. Stir everything together. Season generously with salt, pepper and some fresh herbs. If you want to add cheese, now’s the time to mix it in.
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Shape the Patties:
Once the mixture is combined and tastes good, take a small handful of it and form it into a patty. Try to keep them about 1 inch thick, so they crisp up nicely when fried. Roll each patty in breadcrumbs to give them that golden crunch.
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Fry the Patties:
Heat up some olive oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, gently place the patties in the pan. Don’t overcrowd the pan. Fry them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy. Keep them warm in the oven while you cook the rest.
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Serve and Enjoy:
Once all the patties are fried up, serve them hot with a side of your choice. maybe some eggs, grilled tomatoes or even a dollop of sour cream. They’re great on their own, too!
What I Learnt
Making these Bubble and Squeak Patties was like learning the perfect balance of comfort and freshness. What really stands out is how flexible the recipe is. You can use pretty much any vegetables you’ve got hanging around in the fridge. making it an excellent choice for using up leftovers. The key is getting the right ratio of potato to veggies so that the patties hold together and get nice and crispy.
One thing I also picked up is that the combination of mashed potatoes with slightly caramelized cabbage and carrots is such an unexpected but delicious flavor. The crispy exterior and soft interior make for a perfect contrast. Adding fresh herbs really brightens everything up.
Recipe Tweaks For Jamie Oliver’s Bubble And Squeak Patties
Jamie Oliver’s Bubble and Squeak Patties are a delicious, hearty dish but there’s always room to make them your own. The classic recipe uses leftover vegetables like potatoes, cabbage and Brussels sprouts but you can switch things up depending on your pantry or mood.
1. Swap the Veggies
Instead of the traditional cabbage, try kale, spinach or even mixed greens for a fresh twist. You can also throw in some roasted carrots or parsnips for added sweetness. If you’re not a fan of Brussels sprouts, swap them out for sautéed onions or leeks.
2. Add Protein
To bulk them up and turn these patties into more of a meal, consider adding some cooked chicken, bacon or even some crumbled feta cheese. A sprinkle of grated cheddar could also bring some extra richness and flavor.
3. Spice it Up
For a little more kick, toss in some chili flakes, smoked paprika or cumin. Fresh herbs like thyme or parsley can also brighten up the flavors and add an aromatic touch. You could even go for a squeeze of lemon or a dash of vinegar if you like a hint of acidity to balance the richness.
4. Make Them Crispy
For a crispier crust, coat the patties in panko breadcrumbs instead of regular ones. You could also double-coat them for extra crunch by dipping the patties in egg and then breadcrumbs again. For a more indulgent approach, fry them in a mixture of butter and olive oil to get that golden, crispy finish.
5. Bind with Something Extra
If you want a smoother texture or more flavor, you could replace part of the mashed potato with cooked quinoa, rice or sweet potato. For a creamier, richer taste, stir in a dollop of sour cream or even a spoonful of pesto.
Storage Tips For Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers from your Bubble and Squeak Patties, here’s how to store them so they stay fresh and tasty.
1. Fridge
After they’ve cooled down to room temperature, store the patties in an airtight container. They’ll keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you’ve added extra moisture (like sour cream or pesto), the patties might soften a bit more but they’ll still taste great.
2. Freezing
For longer storage, you can freeze the patties. Just place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for 1-2 hours until firm. After that, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll last in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw them overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven or on the stovetop for a crispy finish.
3. Reheating
When reheating, you want to bring back that crispy texture. Reheat in a skillet with a little oil or butter on medium heat for a few minutes on each side until golden. If you’re using the oven, place the patties on a baking sheet at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-12 minutes. You can also use an air fryer for a quick, crisp finish.
What To Eat With Jamie Oliver’s Bubble And Squeak Patties?
Bubble and Squeak Patties are great on their own but pairing them with the right sides can take them to the next level.
1. Poached or Fried Eggs
A runny poached egg or a fried egg with a crispy edge pairs perfectly with these patties. The richness of the yolk brings a creamy contrast to the crisp patties, making each bite heavenly.
2. Grilled Meat
You can serve the patties with a piece of grilled chicken, sausages or even steak. The savory flavors of the meat complement the earthy veggies in the patties. Try some BBQ chicken thighs or a nice grilled lamb chop for a really satisfying meal.
3. Salad
A light, fresh salad can cut through the richness of the patties. Try a simple arugula or mixed green salad with a light vinaigrette. A citrusy or apple cider vinegar-based dressing will brighten up the meal and balance the heaviness of the patties.
4. Chutney or Relish
For a tangy contrast, serve your Bubble and Squeak Patties with some chutney (mango or tomato chutney works wonderfully). The sweetness and tanginess of the chutney contrast beautifully with the savory flavors of the patties.
5. Roasted Vegetables
Pair the patties with some roasted vegetables like carrots, sweet potatoes or even beets. The caramelized flavors of the roasted veggies provide a great balance to the crispy patties.
6. Mushrooms
Mushrooms sautéed in butter and garlic make for a rich, earthy side that complements the crispy patties. Their umami flavor works harmoniously with the potatoes and cabbage in the patties.
FAQs
What Ingredients Do I Need For Jamie Oliver’s Bubble And Squeak Patties?
You’ll need leftover veggies (like potatoes, cabbage, carrots), some herbs, a couple of eggs, breadcrumbs, and oil for frying.
Can I Make Jamie Oliver’s Bubble And Squeak Patties In Advance?
Yep! You can make them ahead, freeze them, and fry them up when you’re ready.
What’s The Best Way To Serve Bubble And Squeak Patties?
Serve them with a fried egg on top, or pair them with a tangy sauce like ketchup or a dollop of sour cream.
