Air Fryer Bubble and Squeak: A Crispy, Delicious Twist on a Classic Dish

Air Fryer Bubble and Squeak: A Crispy, Delicious Twist on a Classic Dish

Bubble and Squeak is a traditional British dish made from leftover vegetables, typically mashed potatoes and cabbage, that are fried together until crispy. The name comes from the bubbling and squeaking sounds the vegetables make while cooking. While the classic version is often fried in a pan, the Air Fryer Bubble and Squeak offers a healthier, quicker, and equally delicious alternative. The air fryer gives this dish a wonderfully crispy exterior while keeping the inside soft and flavorful.

Why Air Fryer Bubble and Squeak is Great

The air fryer is perfect for making bubble and squeak because it allows you to achieve the crispy texture without needing excessive oil. This means you can enjoy the classic dish with fewer calories and less fat. Additionally, you can easily customize the recipe by using any leftover vegetables you have on hand, making it a great way to reduce food waste while creating a hearty, flavorful meal or side dish.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups leftover mashed potatoes (preferably chilled)
• 1 cup cooked cabbage (or any leftover greens like Brussels sprouts, spinach, or kale)
• 1/4 cup chopped onion (optional)
• 1/4 cup grated cheese (optional, but adds extra flavor)
• 1 egg (to bind the mixture)
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for extra crispiness)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Olive oil spray (or a light coating of oil)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Mixture:

In a large mixing bowl, combine the leftover mashed potatoes and cooked cabbage (or any other greens you’re using). If you want extra flavor, you can add in finely chopped onions, grated cheese, or any other leftover vegetables that pair well with the dish. Add salt and pepper to taste, and mix everything together thoroughly.

2. Bind the Ingredients:

Crack the egg into the mixture and mix it in well. The egg will help bind the ingredients together, ensuring the mixture holds its shape while cooking. If the mixture seems too soft or sticky, you can add breadcrumbs to help absorb some of the moisture and make it easier to shape.

3. Form the Patties:

Take a handful of the mixture and shape it into small patties or cakes, about the size of a burger patty. If the mixture is too sticky to handle, lightly coat your hands with flour or breadcrumbs to make it easier to shape.

4. Preheat the Air Fryer:

Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3-5 minutes.

5. Cook the Bubble and Squeak:

Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil spray to prevent sticking. Place the patties in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Make sure there is some space between each patty for even cooking. Lightly spray the top of the patties with olive oil.

Cook for about 10-12 minutes, flipping the patties halfway through to ensure both sides are golden brown and crispy. If you like them extra crispy, you can cook them for a few more minutes.

6. Serve and Enjoy:

Once the patties are golden and crispy on both sides, remove them from the air fryer and serve immediately. You can enjoy them on their own, or serve them with a side of gravy, ketchup, or a fried egg for a more hearty meal.

Why It Works

The air fryer cooks the patties to perfection, providing a crispy exterior while keeping the inside soft and full of flavor. This method uses little to no oil, making it a healthier alternative to traditional frying. Additionally, the recipe is highly customizable, so you can easily adjust the ingredients based on what you have leftover. Whether you’re making bubble and squeak as a side dish or a main meal, the air fryer helps simplify the cooking process while maintaining the classic, delicious flavors.

Conclusion

Air Fryer Bubble and Squeak is a fantastic, easy-to-make dish that turns leftovers into a crispy, satisfying meal. With minimal ingredients and a quick cooking time, this recipe is perfect for anyone looking to make the most of their leftover vegetables. Plus, with the air fryer, you can enjoy the crispy, comforting texture of bubble and squeak without the excess oil, making it a healthier choice. Give it a try and enjoy this delightful twist on a traditional classic!