Prepare Leftover Vegetables: If you’re using leftover vegetables, ensure they’re cooked and chopped into bite-sized pieces. If you don’t have any leftovers, you can cook fresh vegetables like cabbage, carrots, and potatoes.
Mash the Potatoes: If you’re using fresh potatoes, peel, boil, and mash them with a bit of salt and butter for a creamy texture.
Chop the Vegetables: Chop the cooked cabbage, carrots, and any other vegetables you plan to use into small pieces. You want everything to blend together nicely when you fry it.
Sauté the Onion: In a large frying pan, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil (or butter if using) over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened and translucent.
Combine the Vegetables: Once the onions are soft, add the mashed potatoes, cooked cabbage, and carrots to the pan. Stir everything together until well mixed.
Season the Mixture: Season with salt, pepper, and dried thyme (if using). Stir everything to ensure the flavors are well distributed.
Fry the Mixture: Use the back of your spatula or spoon to press the mixture into an even layer in the pan. Let it cook undisturbed for about 5-7 minutes until the bottom is golden and crispy.
Flip the Bubble and Squeak: Once the bottom is crispy, carefully flip the mixture in sections or use a large plate to help flip it all at once. Return the pan to the heat, adding a bit more oil or butter if necessary, and cook the other side for another 5-7 minutes until it’s golden and crispy as well.