National Dish England: Bubble and Squeak with Bacon (Recipe)
In this article
Meet Bubble and Squeak with Bacon, a true cornerstone of British home cooking born out of thrift and good sense. This humble dish turns yesterday’s roast dinner into something deeply satisfying, pan-frying leftover potatoes and greens into a golden, crispy cake and crowning it with rashers of crispy bacon. It is the kind of warming, no-fuss food that makes the most of what is already in the kitchen — proof that avoiding food waste can taste absolutely wonderful.
About Bubble and Squeak
Bubble and Squeak is a traditional English dish whose origins reach back to the 19th century. It first appeared as a clever way to use up the leftovers from the Sunday roast, bringing together a delicious mix of fried vegetables and potatoes. The addition of crispy bacon makes the dish especially hearty and gives it a rich, savoury aroma. It is not only a tasty meal but also a practical answer to reducing food waste, and it remains a much-loved part of the British table.
Ingredients (serves 1–2)
- 200 g cooked potatoes
- 150 g vegetables (e.g. cabbage, carrots, peas)
- 2–3 rashers of bacon
- 1–2 tablespoons butter or oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh herbs (optional)
Shopping for the ingredients
To make a really tasty bubble and squeak, it is worth choosing fresh, good-quality ingredients. Make sure your vegetables are fresh and crisp, as this has a big impact on the flavour of the finished dish. The potatoes are best pre-cooked so they are already soft and quick to work with. Visit your local market or supermarket to find the best deals on fresh vegetables and regionally produced bacon.
Preparing the dish
Before you start cooking the bubble and squeak, it is important to have all your ingredients well prepared. Cut the cooked potatoes into small cubes, or mash them if you prefer a creamier texture. The vegetables should also be chopped small to ensure they cook evenly. If you would like to add fresh herbs, wash and chop them too for an extra layer of flavour.
Step-by-step instructions
- Heat the butter or oil in a large frying pan over a medium heat.
- Add the bacon rashers and fry until crisp.
- Remove the bacon from the pan and let it drain on a piece of kitchen paper.
- Add the prepared vegetables to the pan and fry for a few minutes.
- Add the potatoes and mix everything together well.
- Season with salt and pepper, then press the mixture lightly into the pan so a crust can form.
- Fry until golden brown and crispy, turning occasionally.
- Serve warm with the crispy bacon on top.
Gluten-free / lactose-free version
For a gluten-free version of bubble and squeak, simply make sure all the ingredients you use are gluten-free. This includes choosing gluten-free bacon and avoiding any extra ingredients that might contain gluten. The butter can also be swapped for a plant-based fat to make the dish lactose-free. Take care to check all processed foods for hidden sources of gluten so you can guarantee a thoroughly gluten-free preparation.
Tips for vegans and vegetarians
For a vegan version of bubble and squeak, you can replace the bacon with smoked tofu or a plant-based bacon alternative. Instead of butter, simply use plant-based oil or margarine. The vegetables should be fresh and seasonal to guarantee the best possible flavour. You can also add a pinch of smoked paprika to mimic the aroma of bacon and round off the dish beautifully.
More tips and tricks
One key tip for a perfect bubble and squeak is to cook the potatoes well in advance and let them cool before frying. This stops them turning to mush in the pan. Adding diced onions or a clove of garlic can also lend the dish extra flavour. Feel free to experiment with different spices and herbs to adapt the recipe to your own preferences.
Adapting the recipe to your taste
Bubble and squeak is easy to tailor to different tastes. Like it with a bit of kick? Add a little chilli or some hot mustard. If you prefer a Mediterranean twist, throw in some olives and feta for a whole new flavour experience. Be creative and do not hesitate to use whatever seasonal ingredients happen to be available.
Ingredient substitutions
If some ingredients are not to hand, you can easily find alternatives. Instead of classic potatoes, you could use sweet potatoes, which give the dish a slightly sweeter note — much like the hearty mash at the heart of a Rumbledethumps. Frozen vegetables work just as well as fresh, as long as they are well drained. For seasoning, you can reach for herbes de Provence or other aromatic blends to intensify the flavour.
Drink pairing ideas
For a hearty dish like bubble and squeak, a glass of fresh apple juice or a light white wine works wonderfully to bring out the flavours. If you prefer something non-alcoholic, you could serve sparkling water with citrus for a lively, refreshing touch. For a complete British experience, a cup of black tea is also well worth considering. These drinks all complement the savoury character of the dish perfectly.
Serving and presentation ideas
To serve bubble and squeak attractively, arrange it in a nice bowl and garnish with fresh herbs. A squeeze of lemon not only looks fresh but also lifts the flavour. Serve the dish with a side of green leafy salad or a fresh cucumber salad to create a healthy contrast. An appealing presentation does not just make the meal look better — it makes the whole experience more enjoyable, just as it does with a comforting Lancashire Hotpot.
A bit of history
Bubble and squeak has a fascinating history that is deeply woven into British culture. It first emerged as a way of using up leftovers, making the most of the remains of the Sunday roast. The dish’s many variations differ from region to region and from one family recipe to the next. Many Britons grew up with this traditional dish and often associate it with nostalgic memories of family meals and home — much like the comfort found in classic England cuisine.
More recipe ideas
Summary: Bubble and Squeak
In short, bubble and squeak with bacon is a truly delicious and versatile dish that adapts easily to all sorts of tastes. Whether you make it to use up leftovers or as a recipe in its own right, it offers a unique flavour experience and is deeply rooted in British cooking. With straightforward ingredients and a simple method, it quickly becomes a firm favourite. Enjoy this dish and bring a little piece of British food culture to your own table!
