Irish Bacon Cabbage And Potato Soup Recipe

There's nothing quite like a warm bowl of Irish Bacon, Cabbage, and Potato Soup to bring comfort on a chilly day. This traditional Irish-inspired dish combines smoky bacon, tender cabbage, and creamy potatoes in a rich, flavorful broth. Every spoonful is a taste of homey goodness, perfect for family dinners or a cozy meal by the fire.

I first discovered this recipe while visiting Ireland, where hearty soups are a staple in every household. It quickly became a favorite in my kitchen, especially during the colder months. With simple, budget-friendly ingredients and an easy cooking process, this soup is both satisfying and effortless to make.

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

Get ready to fall in love with this hearty and wholesome soup. It's packed with comforting flavors and nourishing ingredients that make it a must-try recipe.

First, it’s incredibly easy to make. With just a handful of common ingredients and one pot, you’ll have a rich, flavorful soup ready in under an hour.

The flavor is unmatched. The smoky, salty bacon pairs perfectly with the sweetness of cabbage and the creaminess of potatoes, creating a well-balanced dish that’s both rustic and delicious.

It’s budget-friendly and filling. Using affordable staples like potatoes and cabbage, this soup is a great way to feed a crowd without breaking the bank.

Plus, it’s perfect for meal prep. The flavors develop even more over time, making leftovers just as delicious—if not better—than the first bowl.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this Irish Bacon, Cabbage, and Potato Soup comes from its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Each one plays a key role in making this dish hearty and delicious.

Bacon is the star of the show, providing a smoky, salty depth to the broth. Traditional Irish rashers work best, but thick-cut American bacon or pancetta are great substitutes.

Cabbage adds a subtle sweetness and a slight crunch, balancing the richness of the bacon. Green cabbage is the most commonly used, but Savoy cabbage can also work for a slightly milder taste.

Potatoes make the soup hearty and creamy. Russet potatoes break down slightly to thicken the broth, while Yukon Gold potatoes hold their shape for a chunkier texture.

Chicken or vegetable broth serves as the flavorful base. A homemade broth will bring out the best taste, but store-bought works well in a pinch.

Seasonings like salt, pepper, and fresh thyme enhance the natural flavors. A bay leaf adds an extra layer of warmth and depth to the broth.

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

Making this soup is as easy as it gets. Just follow these simple steps, and you'll have a comforting bowl ready in no time.

Start by cooking the bacon in a large pot over medium heat. Let it render its fat and crisp up for about 5-7 minutes. Once golden and crispy, remove it with a slotted spoon, leaving the flavorful bacon grease in the pot.

Next, sauté the onions and garlic in the bacon fat until soft and fragrant. This step builds the foundation of the soup’s flavor, ensuring every spoonful is rich and aromatic.

Add the potatoes, cabbage, and broth, stirring well to combine. Toss in a bay leaf and a sprig of thyme for extra depth. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce to a gentle simmer.

Let the soup cook for about 25-30 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and starting to break down slightly, giving the soup a creamy consistency. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Finally, return the crispy bacon to the pot, stirring it in just before serving. Give the soup a taste, adjusting the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Remove the bay leaf, and it's ready to enjoy!

Storage Options

This soup stores beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep or leftovers.

To store in the refrigerator, let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep well for up to 4 days.

For freezing, portion the soup into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion. It will stay fresh for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

To reheat, warm the soup on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally. If it thickens too much, add a splash of broth or water to bring it back to the perfect consistency.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is how adaptable it is. Here are some variations to suit different tastes and dietary needs:

• Swap bacon for ham – If you have leftover ham, dice it up and use it in place of bacon for a slightly different but equally delicious flavor.
• Make it vegetarian – Skip the bacon and use vegetable broth. Add a bit of smoked paprika to mimic the depth of smoky bacon.
• Use different potatoes – While russets create a thicker broth, red potatoes or Yukon Golds hold their shape better for a chunkier soup.
• Try different greens – Instead of cabbage, kale or spinach can add a unique twist and extra nutrients.
• Add cream for richness – Stir in a splash of heavy cream at the end for an ultra-creamy version.

No matter how you customize it, this Irish Bacon, Cabbage, and Potato Soup is sure to warm your soul and satisfy your appetite!

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