Irish Bacon Cabbage Potato Soup Recipe

The hearty, comforting charm of Irish Bacon Cabbage Potato Soup makes it a beloved classic that never fails to warm you from the inside out. This soul-satisfying soup brings together tender potatoes, crisp cabbage, and savory Irish bacon, creating a perfect balance of flavors that feels like a big, gentle hug in a bowl. Whether you’re craving something simple yet deeply flavorful or a dish that transports you to a cozy Irish kitchen, this soup offers richness and hominess in every spoonful.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting started with Irish Bacon Cabbage Potato Soup is delightfully straightforward. Each ingredient plays a crucial role, from the smoky bite of the Irish bacon to the soothing creaminess of the potatoes and the subtle sweetness of cabbage. These essentials create both texture and hearty flavor that make this soup truly special.

• 4 cups chicken broth: Provides a flavorful, savory base that brings all the ingredients together.
• 1 cup diced Irish bacon: Adds a smoky, salty richness that infuses the entire soup.
• 2 cups chopped cabbage: Offers a tender crunch and subtle sweetness that balances the savory broth.
• 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced: Bring heartiness and velvety texture that soak up all the good flavors.
• 1 cup chopped onions: Lends natural sweetness and depth when sautéed to perfection.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Invites a fragrant warmth that enhances the soup’s body.
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Offers an earthy undertone that complements the other flavors beautifully.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning to perfectly balance all elements.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: Used to sauté vegetables gently while adding richness.

How to Make Irish Bacon Cabbage Potato Soup

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Begin by gathering and prepping all your ingredients — dice the Irish bacon, chop the cabbage and onions, peel and cut the potatoes, and mince the garlic. Having everything ready to go makes the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.

Step 2: Cook the Bacon

Place the diced Irish bacon in a large pot over medium heat. Cook until the bacon is beautifully browned and has released its flavorful fat. This fat is liquid gold for the soup’s taste, so save it and set the bacon aside once cooked.

Step 3: Sauté the Onions

Using the bacon fat that’s left in the pot, add your diced onions. Sauté gently until they become translucent and release their natural sweetness, which creates a fantastic flavor base for the soup.

Step 4: Add the Potatoes

Now, toss in the diced potatoes with the onions. Stir well to coat every piece in the rendered bacon fat, allowing the potatoes to soak in that rich, savory flavor from the very start.

Step 5: Incorporate the Cabbage

Next, stir in the chopped cabbage so it mingles with the potatoes and onions. The cabbage will soften during simmering but still provide a pleasant texture and freshness.

Step 6: Return the Bacon

Crumble the cooked bacon back into the pot and mix it thoroughly with the veggies. This ensures that smoky, meaty flavor is dispersed evenly throughout the soup.

Step 7: Add Liquid

Pour in the chicken broth until it covers all the ingredients comfortably. Bring this vibrant mixture to a gentle boil, setting the stage for those flavors to meld exquisitely.

Step 8: Season the Soup

Sprinkle in the dried thyme along with salt and pepper to taste. These simple seasonings boost the soup’s personality without overpowering its fresh, wholesome ingredients.

Step 9: Simmer

Reduce the heat to low and let your Irish Bacon Cabbage Potato Soup simmer quietly for 20 to 30 minutes until the potatoes and cabbage are tender and the broth is infused with rich, mellow flavors.

Step 10: Serve

Taste your soup and adjust seasonings as needed. Ladle it into bowls while hot, and if you like, garnish with a little extra crispy bacon or fresh herbs to make it look as good as it tastes.

How to Serve Irish Bacon Cabbage Potato Soup

Garnishes

Fresh parsley or chives add a lovely pop of color and a hint of freshness. Crispy bacon bits on top provide an irresistible crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft potato and cabbage.

Side Dishes

Serve this soup alongside crusty bread or warm soda bread to soak up every last drop. A simple green salad works wonderfully to balance the meal and provide a refreshing counterpoint.

Creative Ways to Present

Consider serving the soup in individual bread bowls for a festive, rustic touch. Or, top with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of sharp Irish cheddar cheese to add creamy richness and extra depth.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover Irish Bacon Cabbage Potato Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld even more after resting, making reheated soup taste just as delightful.

Freezing

This soup freezes beautifully. Pour cooled soup into freezer-safe containers, leaving some room for expansion, and freeze for up to 3 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through to preserve the texture of the potatoes and cabbage. You may want to add a splash of broth or water if it thickens too much.

FAQs

Can I use smoked bacon instead of Irish bacon?

Absolutely! Smoked bacon will lend a different smoky depth to the soup, which many find delicious. Just adjust the salt accordingly since smoked bacon can be saltier.

Is this soup gluten-free?

Yes, Irish Bacon Cabbage Potato Soup is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free broth and avoid adding bread or other gluten-containing sides.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

To make a vegetarian version, substitute the Irish bacon with smoked paprika or a vegetarian bacon alternative and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

What type of potatoes work best?

Waxy potatoes hold their shape nicely, but starchy potatoes like Russets will break down more, making the soup creamier. Choose based on your preferred texture.

How spicy is this soup?

This Irish Bacon Cabbage Potato Soup is mild and comforting. You can easily add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce if you prefer a little kick.

Final Thoughts

Irish Bacon Cabbage Potato Soup is more than just a meal — it’s a warm invitation to slow down and savor simple, hearty flavors that feel like home. I hope you give this recipe a try and enjoy every gratifying spoonful as much as I do. It’s perfect for sharing with loved ones or keeping all to yourself on a cozy day.

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