Irish Bacon Cabbage And Potato Soup Recipe

There's something undeniably comforting about a steaming bowl of Irish Bacon, Cabbage, and Potato Soup. The aroma of smoky bacon, tender cabbage, and creamy potatoes simmering together fills the kitchen with warmth and nostalgia.

I first discovered this recipe on a trip to Ireland, where a cozy pub served up the most delicious, hearty soup on a rainy afternoon. Since then, it has become a staple in my home, bringing the taste of Ireland to my kitchen with every spoonful.

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

This soup is the perfect blend of comfort and simplicity. Whether you're looking for a quick weeknight meal or a dish to warm you up on a chilly evening, this recipe has you covered.

First off, it's incredibly easy to make. With just a handful of basic ingredients, you can have a wholesome, satisfying meal on the table in under an hour.

It's also budget-friendly. Potatoes, cabbage, and bacon are inexpensive staples, making this soup an affordable yet nourishing option for the whole family.

Not to mention, this dish is packed with flavor. The smokiness of the bacon pairs beautifully with the mild sweetness of cabbage and the creamy richness of potatoes, creating a well-balanced and deeply satisfying bite.

Best of all, it's versatile. You can adjust the ingredients to suit your taste—add carrots for extra sweetness, swap bacon for ham, or use chicken broth instead of vegetable broth for a different depth of flavor.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this Irish Bacon, Cabbage, and Potato Soup lies in its simple yet carefully selected ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in creating a perfectly balanced dish.

Bacon is the heart of this recipe. Its smoky, salty flavor infuses the entire soup, giving it a rich and satisfying taste. I recommend using thick-cut Irish bacon if you can find it, but any high-quality smoked bacon will work beautifully.

Potatoes provide the creamy, starchy base of the soup. Russet potatoes break down slightly, making the broth velvety, while Yukon Golds hold their shape and add a buttery texture. A combination of both works best for the ultimate soup consistency.

Cabbage brings a subtle sweetness and tender bite to the dish. Green cabbage is the traditional choice, but Savoy cabbage adds a nice texture as well. Be sure to slice it thinly so it cooks evenly.

Onions and Garlic build the foundation of the soup’s flavor. Sautéing them in bacon drippings enhances their natural sweetness, adding depth to every spoonful.

For the broth, you can use either vegetable or chicken broth. A homemade broth will elevate the flavors even more, but a good-quality store-bought version works just as well.

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

Making this soup is as easy as it is delicious. Follow these steps for a bowl of pure comfort.

Start by cooking the bacon in a large pot over medium heat until it's crispy and golden brown. Remove it with a slotted spoon and set it aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pot for added flavor.

Next, add the onions and garlic to the pot, sautéing them in the bacon drippings until they turn soft and fragrant. Stir occasionally to ensure they don't brown too quickly.

Once the onions are ready, pour in the broth and bring it to a gentle simmer. Add the potatoes and let them cook until they're fork-tender, which usually takes about 15 minutes.

When the potatoes are soft, stir in the cabbage and let it simmer for another 10 minutes. The cabbage should be tender but still have a slight bite.

Finally, return the crispy bacon to the pot, stirring everything together. Let the soup sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld before serving.

Storage Options

This soup stores beautifully, making it an excellent option for meal prep or leftovers.

If you have leftovers, allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

For longer storage, freeze the soup in portion-sized containers for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy it, let it thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

To reheat, warm the soup gently over medium heat on the stove, stirring occasionally. If it has thickened too much, add a splash of broth or water to bring it back to the right consistency.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this soup is how adaptable it is. Here are a few ways you can change it up:

For a vegetarian version, skip the bacon and use olive oil instead. A dash of smoked paprika can help recreate the smoky flavor.

If you prefer a thicker soup, mash some of the potatoes with the back of a spoon before serving. This will create a richer, creamier texture.

Want extra protein? Add diced ham, shredded chicken, or even white beans for a heartier meal.

For a spicy kick, throw in a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce.

No matter how you make it, this Irish Bacon, Cabbage, and Potato Soup is sure to become a new favorite in your kitchen. So grab a spoon and enjoy a taste of comfort in every bite!

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