I still remember the first time I tried Jamie Oliver’s Bubble and Squeak Patties. It was a rainy Sunday afternoon, and I had leftover roast vegetables sitting in the fridge. I wasn’t expecting much. But as soon as I took my first bite, the crispy outside and the soft, flavorful inside completely surprised me. It reminded me how something simple can be comforting, fun, and deeply satisfying.
- Bubble and Squeak is a British classic turned modern comfort food.
- It’s a way to transform leftovers into a new, delicious meal.
- Perfect for brunch, lunch, or even a light dinner.
This recipe is practical, flavorful, and a great way to reduce food waste.
Jamie Oliver’s Bubble And Squeak Patties Recipe
I love that Jamie Oliver made this dish approachable. He simplifies what used to feel like a fussy recipe into something anyone can whip up.
- The patties are golden brown on the outside and soft on the inside.
- They have a subtle sweetness from roasted vegetables.
- The flavor is balanced with a hint of seasoning, letting the veggies shine.
Every time I make this, the smell alone fills the kitchen with warmth.
Ingredients Needed
I always make sure I have everything ready before starting. The first time I didn’t, I ended up improvising and nearly ruined the texture. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Leftover roast vegetables – potatoes, carrots, parsnips, or any root vegetables
- Cabbage – finely shredded, adds crunch and flavor
- Butter or olive oil – for frying, gives a crisp golden finish
- Eggs – helps bind the mixture
- Flour or breadcrumbs – adds structure to the patties
- Salt and pepper – essential, don’t skip
- Optional herbs – thyme, parsley, or chives for extra flavor
Pro tip: The better your leftover vegetables, the tastier the patties.
How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Bubble And Squeak Patties
I remember the first time I tried to shape these patties. I got vegetable bits everywhere and my hands were sticky, but the results were worth it.
- Step 1: Prep the veggies – Mash leftover potatoes and mix with shredded cabbage and other leftover roasted vegetables.
- Step 2: Season and bind – Add salt, pepper, and a beaten egg. Mix until it forms a soft, moldable dough.
- Step 3: Shape into patties – Use your hands to form small, even-sized patties.
- Step 4: Coat – Lightly dust with flour or breadcrumbs for extra crispiness.
- Step 5: Fry – Heat butter or oil in a pan. Fry patties until golden brown on each side, usually 3-4 minutes.
- Step 6: Serve hot – Perfect with ketchup, mustard, or a poached egg on top.
The first bite will make you appreciate how leftovers can become a whole new dish.
Ingredient Science Spotlight
The first time I learned why these patties crisp up so well, it completely changed how I cooked them.
- Potatoes – Starchy potatoes like Maris Piper give a soft, creamy interior.
- Cabbage – Contains water that steams inside, keeping the patty tender.
- Egg – Proteins coagulate during cooking, holding the mixture together.
- Flour/Breadcrumbs – Forms a crust when fried, giving a crunchy contrast.
- Butter/Oil – Fat conducts heat, browns the surface, and adds flavor.
Understanding the science makes cooking less guesswork and more fun.
Expert Tips
I learned these tips after several messy tries:
- Make patties slightly smaller than you think – they hold together better and cook evenly.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan – gives a perfect crisp crust.
- Use a spatula with a thin edge to flip gently – keeps patties intact.
- Let patties rest for a few minutes after cooking – flavors settle and texture improves.
Recipe Variations
I like to mix things up depending on what’s in my fridge.
- Cheese Lovers – Add grated cheddar or parmesan inside the patty for a gooey surprise.
- Spicy Twist – Add chili flakes or paprika for heat.
- Veggie Boost – Include spinach, peas, or sweetcorn for extra nutrition.
- Vegan Version – Replace eggs with a flaxseed mixture and use oil instead of butter.
Every variation brings a new flavor dimension, keeping the recipe exciting.
Final Words
I love how this recipe proves simple ingredients can create magic. The golden crust, the soft interior, and the subtle vegetable sweetness make it feel both comforting and gourmet. It’s easy to make, flexible, and a dish that brings people together.
FAQs
What Are The Key Ingredients For Jamie Oliver’s Bubble And Squeak Patties?
You’ll need leftover mashed potatoes, cooked cabbage, onions, carrots, and some eggs to bind everything together. It’s a great way to use up leftovers!
Can I Make These Bubble And Squeak Patties Ahead Of Time?
Yes, you can prep the patties ahead and store them in the fridge. Just fry them when you’re ready to serve.
How Do I Make The Patties Crispy?
To get them crispy, make sure the oil is hot before frying, and don’t overcrowd the pan. A few minutes on each side should give you that perfect golden crunch!