Bubble and Squeak

Dish information

Bubble and Squeak is a distinctly British dish, a humble yet beloved concoction of cooked potatoes and cabbage (or other green vegetables) fried together until golden. Its name is famously onomatopoeic, derived from the sounds the ingredients make as they bubble and squeak in the frying pan during cooking. The dish's origins are rooted in resourcefulness, embodying the thrifty spirit of British home cooking, particularly rising to prominence after World War II when rationing made the efficient use of leftovers paramount. It's a classic way to utilize the remnants of a Sunday roast, transforming boiled potatoes and leftover cabbage or greens into a satisfying meal. While cabbage is the most traditional green, variations often include Brussels sprouts, broccoli, peas, or runner beans, depending on what’s available or leftover. The potatoes are typically mashed or roughly chopped, providing a starchy base, while the greens are finely shredded or chopped to ensure they integrate well. This mixture is then pan-fried, often with a knob of butter or a bit of lard, until crisp on the outside and tender within. Bubble and Squeak is frequently served as a component of a full English breakfast, alongside bacon, eggs, and sausages, or as a side dish for other hearty meals like pies or chops. Its unpretentious nature and comforting appeal have secured its place in British culinary history as a perfect example of 'waste-not, want-not' cooking that tastes surprisingly sophisticated.

Timeline

• 1800s

  Early mentions of similar 'bubble and squeak' dishes appear in literature

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  1940s

  Popularity surges due to food rationing and the need for leftover utilization

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  1950s

  Becomes a common accompaniment to traditional British breakfasts

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  1970

  Featured in various British cookbooks as a classic comfort food recipe

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  2000s

  Experiencing a revival as chefs rediscover traditional British cuisine