Description
Discover how to make a traditional Irish Bacon, Cabbage, and Potato Soup with this easy recipe. Perfect for a hearty, comforting meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Ingredients List
For the Soup:
- 6 slices of Irish bacon or thick-cut bacon
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups green cabbage, chopped
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the Bacon:
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon and set it aside on a paper towel-lined plate. Leave about 2 tablespoons of bacon fat in the pot.
- Sauté the Onions and Garlic:
- Add the diced onion to the pot and sauté in the bacon fat until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the Cabbage and Potatoes:
- Stir in the chopped cabbage and diced potatoes, coating them well with the onion and garlic mixture. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Simmer the Soup:
- Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and add the bay leaf. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until the potatoes and cabbage are tender.
- Finish the Soup:
- Crumble the cooked bacon and stir it back into the soup. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Remove the bay leaf before serving.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot, with crusty bread on the side for a complete meal.
Notes
Additional Tips and Notes
- Serving Ideas: Garnish your Irish Bacon, Cabbage, and Potato Soup with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color and added freshness. For an extra touch of indulgence, top each bowl with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese.
- Making It Ahead: This soup is perfect for making ahead, as the flavors continue to develop over time. Prepare the soup a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, simply reheat it on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally.
- Customizing the Flavors: If you prefer a more robust flavor, consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a tablespoon of Dijon mustard to the broth. These additions can enhance the savory notes of the soup and add depth to the overall flavor.