Irish Bacon Cabbage And Potato Soup Recipe

There's nothing quite like a warm, hearty bowl of Irish Bacon, Cabbage, and Potato Soup to soothe the soul on a chilly evening. This traditional dish combines tender potatoes, smoky bacon, and fresh cabbage in a flavorful broth that's both comforting and satisfying.

this Recipe

I first tasted this soup on a trip to Ireland, where a cozy countryside pub served it alongside thick slices of brown bread. The combination of rich flavors and rustic simplicity made it unforgettable. Now, it's a staple in my kitchen, especially when I need a meal that's both nourishing and easy to prepare.

Why You'll Love This Irish Bacon, Cabbage, and Potato Soup

Get ready to fall in love with this classic Irish comfort food. Not only is it incredibly delicious, but it also checks all the boxes for a perfect weeknight meal.

First, this soup is incredibly easy to make. With just a handful of simple ingredients and minimal prep work, you can have a pot simmering on the stove in no time.

It's also budget-friendly. Potatoes, cabbage, and bacon are affordable staples that stretch into a filling meal without breaking the bank.

The flavors are rich and satisfying. The smoky, salty bacon pairs perfectly with the mild sweetness of the cabbage and the creamy texture of the potatoes.

Plus, this recipe is highly adaptable. You can tweak the ingredients based on what you have on hand, making it a great way to use up leftover veggies or meats.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this soup lies in its humble yet flavorful ingredients. Each component plays a key role in creating a perfectly balanced dish.

Bacon is the star of this dish, adding a deep, smoky flavor that infuses the broth. Traditional Irish bacon, also known as rashers, is thicker and less crispy than American bacon. If you can't find it, thick-cut smoked bacon works just as well.

Potatoes provide the creamy, starchy base that gives this soup its comforting texture. Use a variety like Yukon Gold or Russet for the best consistency.

Cabbage adds a slight sweetness and a tender bite. Green cabbage is the traditional choice, but Savoy or Napa cabbage can work if you prefer a slightly different texture.

Broth forms the foundation of the soup. A good-quality chicken or vegetable broth enhances the flavor, while water can be used in a pinch.

Aromatics like onions and garlic bring depth to the dish. A touch of thyme and bay leaves add an earthy note that complements the smoky bacon.

A large Dutch oven or stockpot is ideal for cooking this soup, allowing plenty of room for the ingredients to simmer and develop their flavors.

How To Make This Irish Bacon, Cabbage, and Potato Soup

Creating this delicious soup is a straightforward process that requires only a few key steps.

Start by cooking the bacon. In a large pot over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until it turns crispy and renders its fat. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set it aside, leaving the flavorful drippings in the pot.

Next, sauté the aromatics. Add diced onions and minced garlic to the bacon drippings, cooking until the onions turn soft and translucent. This step helps develop the soup’s rich, savory base.

Now, add the potatoes and broth. Toss in the cubed potatoes and pour in the broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let the potatoes cook until fork-tender.

Once the potatoes have softened, stir in the shredded cabbage. The heat of the soup will wilt the cabbage, turning it tender while maintaining a slight crunch.

Finally, return the bacon to the pot, stirring it in just before serving. A sprinkle of black pepper and fresh parsley adds the perfect finishing touch.

The soup takes about 40 minutes from start to finish, making it a great option for a quick yet satisfying meal.

Storage Options

This soup stores beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep or leftovers. Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.

In the refrigerator, it will keep for up to 4 days. The flavors will continue to meld, making it even more delicious the next day.

For longer storage, freeze the soup in individual portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

To reheat, warm the soup over medium heat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally. If it has thickened, add a splash of broth or water to loosen it up.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is wonderfully versatile, allowing you to customize it based on your preferences or dietary needs.

For a heartier version, add diced carrots or celery to the aromatics. They bring extra flavor and a touch of natural sweetness.

If you prefer a creamy texture, blend half of the soup before serving. This creates a thicker consistency while keeping some potato chunks for a rustic feel.

Swap out the bacon for smoked ham or pancetta for a different take on the smoky flavor.

To make it vegetarian, omit the bacon and use vegetable broth. A splash of smoked paprika can help mimic the rich depth of bacon.

Experiment with different herbs like rosemary or dill to give the soup a fresh twist.

No matter how you make it, this Irish Bacon, Cabbage, and Potato Soup is bound to become a favorite in your home. Enjoy!

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