Crispy Red Leicester & Mozzarella Bites (V) – A Cheesy Favourite on Harvester’s Menu
Cheese-based starters have always been a comfort food, and Harvester’s Crispy Red Leicester & Mozzarella Bites (V) are no exception. This vegetarian option is a popular pick for both adults and kids, offering the perfect balance of crunchy coating and soft, gooey cheese inside.
Served hot and golden brown, these bites are an ideal snack or starter. They also pair perfectly with dips, making them a great sharing option for families and groups dining at Harvester. For diners browsing the Harvester allergen menu, this dish provides a vegetarian-friendly choice, though it does contain dairy and gluten.
What Are Crispy Red Leicester & Mozzarella Bites (V)?
This vegetarian starter features small bites coated in a crisp golden breadcrumb, filled with a gooey mix of two kinds of cheese:
- Red Leicester: Known for its rich, slightly tangy flavor.
- Mozzarella: Soft, mild, and stretchy cheese that adds creaminess.
When deep-fried, the outside turns crunchy while the inside stays soft and cheesy.
Ingredients
The main ingredients used in Crispy Red Leicester & Mozzarella Bites (V) are:
| Ingredient | Details |
|---|---|
| Red Leicester Cheese | Sharp, tangy flavor with an orange color |
| Mozzarella Cheese | Mild, creamy, and gooey texture when melted |
| Breadcrumb Coating | Crispy outer layer for crunch |
| Flour | Used for binding the coating |
| Egg | Sometimes used in the coating mix (varies by outlet) |
| Vegetable Oil | Used for frying to a golden finish |
| Seasoning | Salt, pepper, and herbs for flavor |
| Optional Dips | Garlic dip or spicy tomato sauce |
Portion Sizes and Prices (2025 Update)
| Portion Size | Average Price (2025) | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| 5 Bites | £4.99 – £5.49 | Single serving as a starter |
| 10 Bites (sharing portion) | £7.99 – £8.49 | Family or group snack |
| Festive Menu Starter | Included in the Harvester festive menu | Available during the Harvester Christmas menu |
Prices may change slightly depending on the outlet, especially during the Harvester Christmas, Checkout the Harvester menu prices 2025.
Nutrition Information (Per 5-Bite Portion)
| Nutrient | Amount (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320–360 kcal |
| Protein | 11–13 g |
| Carbohydrates | 26–30 g |
| Fat | 18–20 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Salt | 1.0–1.3 g |
This starter is higher in calories and fat because of the cheese and frying, but it is popular as a treat for special occasions.
Allergen Menu Information
| Contains | Does Not Contain | Cross-Contamination Risk |
|---|---|---|
| Dairy, Gluten, Egg (in some outlets) | Meat, Nuts, Soy | Possible in shared fryers and preparation areas |
For customers with allergies, always confirm details on the Harvester allergen menu before ordering.
Why This Dish Is Popular
- Loved by kids and adults alike
- Perfect cheesy snack with dips
- Vegetarian-friendly option
- Works well in festive dining packages
- Served hot and fresh in most Harvester outlets
Famous Outlets Serving Crispy Red Leicester & Mozzarella Bites
Although available in most Harvester branches, some popular outlets where it is frequently ordered include:
- Harvester Meadowhall – Sheffield
- Harvester Croxley Green – Watford
- Harvester Cardiff Bay
- Harvester Ghillies Lair – Aberdeen
- Harvester Swindon
- Harvester Gravesend
During the Harvester Christmas day menu, these bites are often chosen by families with kids who prefer simple and cheesy starters.
Crispy Bites in the Harvester Christmas Menu 2025
The Harvester festive menu always features a mix of starters, mains, and desserts. The Crispy Red Leicester & Mozzarella Bites (V) are included as a vegetarian-friendly starter option, making them a great choice alongside heavier holiday mains like turkey roasts.
Common Festive Menu Options:
- Starters: Crispy Red Leicester & Mozzarella Bites (V), Winter Root Vegetable Soup (V), Festive Seafood Trio
- Mains: Roast turkey, festive burgers, vegetarian wellington
- Desserts: Christmas pudding, Belgian chocolate brownie, ice cream
This mix makes the festive menu at Harvester appealing to a wide audience.
Menu Deals and Discounts
Crispy cheese bites are often included in meal deals:
- Harvester discount guide: Check seasonal offers during December.
- Meal deals: Add bites as a starter at a reduced price.
- Family bundles: Sharing portions available at a lower cost when booked in festive packages.
To stay updated, check Harvester’s Blogs, Contact Us, and Privacy Policy pages for news and offers.
Why “Crispy Red Leicester & Mozzarella Bites (V)” Are Trending on Harvester’s Menu in the UK
Cheese lovers often call this one of the most satisfying small plates on the Harvester menu. The mix of Red Leicester and Mozzarella creates a balance of sharp, rich, and creamy flavors. Coated in a golden, crispy breadcrumb, these bites are served with a tangy dip, making them a favorite among both kids and adults.
They are trending because:
- They are vegetarian-friendly.
- Perfect for sharing with family or friends.
- Crunchy outside with a gooey, cheesy inside.
- Great value compared to some meat-based starters.
When I had them at Harvester Gravesend, the whole table ended up sharing two plates because one was not enough. That is how addictive they can be.
Best Time to Order ‘Crispy Red Leicester & Mozzarella Bites (V)’ for Maximum Taste
These bites are best enjoyed when they are fresh from the fryer:
- Lunchtime treat – A light yet kind option.
- Evening starters – Great before mains like burgers, chicken, or grills.
- Family dining – Kids especially enjoy it during festive or weekend visits.
Tip: Order them when the restaurant is busy (like at Harvester Meadowhall – Sheffield). Fresh batches come out often, which means crispier bites.
How to Customize ‘Crispy Red Leicester & Mozzarella Bites (V)’ Like a Pro at Harvester
Even though it is a fixed dish, you can add small tweaks:
- Extra Dip: Ask for more of the tangy tomato or chili sauce.
- Mix & Match: Some people order them with garlic bread or chips for a bigger snack.
- Vegan-Friendly Swap: Not available everywhere, but some outlets may offer alternative sides for vegan diners.
At Harvester Broxden Manor – Perth, a guest at the table next to me asked for two dips instead of one. The server happily obliged, and it made the plate feel more shareable.
Pair It Perfectly: Best Sides and Drinks with Crispy Red Leicester & Mozzarella Bites (V)
Best Sides
- Onion rings for extra crunch.
- A small salad to balance the richness.
- Fries or chips if you want a fuller plate.
Best Drinks
- A cold soft drink (cola or lemonade).
- A glass of house white wine.
- Fresh juice for kids or a non-alcoholic option.
When I ordered these bites at Harvester Hillington – Glasgow, pairing them with lemonade gave a refreshing contrast to the cheesy flavor.
Are ‘Crispy Red Leicester & Mozzarella Bites (V)’ Worth It Compared to Harvester’s Other Small Plates?
Compared to other starters, these bites are:
- Cheesier and richer than vegetable or soup starters.
- Crunchier than soft options like garlic bread.
- More affordable than prawn-based or chicken skewers.
- Better for sharing, especially with kids.
If you are dining with family, these are worth adding to the table, even if you also pick other small plates.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Conclusion
The Crispy Red Leicester & Mozzarella Bites (V) are one of Harvester’s most loved vegetarian starters. Their crispy outside and gooey cheese inside make them a comfort dish, especially during the festive season. Included in the Harvester Christmas menu 2025, they are popular with families, kids, and anyone who loves cheesy starters.
From checking the Harvester allergen menu for dietary details to looking at nutrition information and prices, these bites remain a crowd favorite. If you are planning a festive meal, you can enjoy it at top outlets like Harvester Meadowhall – Sheffield or Harvester Cardiff Bay, often as part of deals listed in the Harvester discount guide.
For more updates, always visit Harvester’s About Us, Terms and Conditions, Privacy Policy, Contact Us, Blogs, and Author and sources pages before booking.
