There’s nothing like the comforting aroma of simmering broth on a chilly evening. This Irish Bacon Cabbage and Potato Soup is a hug in a bowl, perfect for St. Patrick’s Day or any cozy night. Seriously, it’s hard to resist something so warm and inviting!
Picture tender potatoes and crisp cabbage mingling with savory bacon in one pot. It’s uncomplicated, yet bursting with flavorlike your grandma’s version, but ready in just 30 minutes! Plus, it uses pantry staples, making it a breeze to whip up on busy days.
Started making this soup during those chilly winters back in 2015, and I still remember my kids’ delight when they first tasted it. The secret? Sauté the bacon until it’s almost crispy before adding the veggies. It adds depth and flavor that’s simply irresistible. After years of refining family recipes, this one always promises to stir up nostalgia and smiles at the dinner table.
Joe Rooney
Irish Bacon Cabbage and Potato Soup Easy Recipe
Enjoy a bowl of Irish Bacon Cabbage and Potato Soup, a comforting and hearty Irish classic. This Hearty Irish Bacon Cabbage Soup brings together crispy bacon, tender cabbage, and potatoes in a rich chicken broth. Perfect for chilly days, this Creamy Irish Bacon Potato Soup offers warmth and satisfying flavors in every spoonful.
Start by frying the bacon in a large pot over medium heat until it becomes crisp, approximately 5 to 7 minutes, then remove it with a slotted spoon and leave the rendered fat in the pot.
Next, add the chopped onion to the pot and sauté until it softens, about 3 to 4 minutes, then toss in the carrot slices and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
Add the diced potatoes and chopped cabbage into the pot, season with salt and pepper, and cook everything for 3 to 4 minutes to let the vegetables begin to soften.
Pour in the chicken stock followed by the bay leaf, bring the mixture to a boil, then lower the heat and let it simmer gently for 15 to 20 minutes until the potatoes and cabbage are tender.
Return the cooked bacon to the pot, stir thoroughly, then adjust seasoning if needed.
Finally, ladle the soup into serving bowls and sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving warm.
Notes
For an extra rich flavor, feel free to replace half of the chicken stock with beef broth.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Comfort in a Bowl: This Irish Bacon Cabbage and Potato Soup is the perfect hug for those chilly nights. It’s warm, inviting, and oh-so-filling!
Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, this soup is perfect for a busy weeknight when you still want something cozy and nourishing.
One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup with all ingredients cooked in a single potless stress and more deliciousness!
Kid-Approved: Packed with flavor, the combination of crispy bacon, tender cabbage, and hearty potatoes is sure to be a hit with the whole family.
Key Ingredients and Tools
Irish Bacon: The foundation of the flavor! Make sure to get good quality bacon that crisps up nicely.
Cabbage: Adds that lovely crunch and sweetness; it’s a must for an authentic Irish experience.
Potatoes and Carrots: These offer heartiness and nutritionperfect for making the soup filling.
Chicken Stock: Use good quality stock for a deeper flavor; it’s the cozy essence of the soup.
Essential Cooking Tools:
A large pot for cooking the soup.
A slotted spoon for removing bacon.
A sharp knife and cutting board for chopping vegetables.
How It Works: Step-by-Step Instructions
Cook the Bacon: In a large pot, over medium heat, cook the quartered bacon until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside, keeping the bacon fat in the pot.
Sauté the Vegetables: Add the chopped onion to the leftover bacon fat; cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Toss in the sliced carrot and continue cooking for another 2 minutes.
Add Potatoes and Cabbage: Stir in the diced potatoes and chopped cabbage, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook for 3-4 minutes to let them soften slightly.
Simmer: Pour in the chicken stock, add the bay leaf, and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes until everything is tender.
Combine: Return the crispy bacon to the pot, stir, and taste to adjust seasoning if needed.
Serve: Ladle soup into bowls, garnish with chopped parsley, and enjoy warm!
Troubleshooting Tips
Too Salty? Add a bit of sugar or water to balance the saltiness if you’ve gone heavy on the seasoning.
Soupy Not Chunky? If you prefer a thicker soup, you can mash a few potatoes in the pot after cooking.
Not Enough Flavor? Feel free to add a splash of vinegar or a pinch of smoked paprika for a flavor boost!
Storage Tips for Cozy Irish Potato Cabbage Bacon Soup
Storage Method
Timeframe
Notes
Refrigerator
3-4 days
Store in an airtight container for best freshness.
Freezer
2-3 months
Cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe bags or containers.
Reheat
Until heated through
Reheat on the stove or in the microwave; add a splash of stock if it thickens up too much.
Delicious Variations and Tweaks
Swap out the Bacon: For a lighter version, try using turkey bacon or omitting it entirely if you want a vegetarian twist!
Throw in Other Veggies: This soup is versatile; add in some chopped parsley or leeks for extra flavor.
Make it Creamy: For a creamier texture, consider swirling in a bit of cream just before serving. It’s a dreamy addition!
Expert Says
Using a combination of hearty ingredients like Irish bacon, cabbage, and potatoes not only creates a comforting flavor profile but also boosts the soup’s nutritional value. The soluble fiber from cabbage and potatoes helps support healthy digestion, making Irish bacon cabbage and potato soup both satisfying and nourishing for the body.
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The Journey to My Perfect Irish Bacon, Cabbage, and Potato Soup
Perfecting this Irish bacon, cabbage, and potato soup took several tries, filled with burning pans and overcooked veggies. Each mishap taught me to listen for that comforting simmer and savor the aroma of the bacon mingling with fresh cabbage. Now, each bowl feels like a warm hug on chilly days, just as it should be.
FAQs ( Irish Bacon, Cabbage, and Potato Soup )
What are the key ingredients for Irish Bacon, Cabbage, and Potato Soup?
This meal primarily features Irish bacon, fresh cabbage, potatoes, onions, and broth. Using quality ingredients enhances the dish’s flavors, and you can customize it with herbs and spices for an extra kick.
How can I make the soup creamier?
To achieve a creamy texture, consider adding heavy cream or a roux made from butter and flour. You can also puree part of the soup using an immersion blender to create a smooth base.
Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, you can freeze this dish! Allow it to cool completely, then store in airtight containers. It generally keeps well in the freezer for up to three months. Just reheat gently when you’re ready to enjoy it again.
How long does it take to cook?
This recipe usually takes about 45 minutes to prepare and cook. If you’re looking for something quicker, you can simplify the steps or use pre-cooked ingredients to speed up the process.
Is this dish good for meal prepping?
This dish is perfect for meal prepping. It stores well and the flavors deepen over time. Make a batch on the weekend, and you’ll have delicious meals ready to go for the week ahead.
Conclusion
This Irish Bacon Cabbage and Potato Soup is sure to warm your heart and fill your home with delightful aromasready in just 30 minutes, it’s pure comfort in a bowl. Trust me, you’ll love how it turns out!
Add a splash of cream for richness or toss in some extra vegetables for a fun twistfeel free to make it your own! Pro tip: this soup tastes even better the next day, so be sure to save some for later.
I’d love to hear your stories! Did you grow up with a special soup recipe? Share your thoughts and don’t forget to save or share this recipe with your loved ones. Happy cooking!
