Irish Bacon, Cabbage, and Potato Soup is a comforting, hearty dish that captures the essence of traditional Irish cooking. This cozy soup blends the rich flavors of crispy bacon, tender potatoes, and wholesome cabbage, all simmered in a savory chicken broth. Perfect for chilly evenings, family dinners, or special gatherings, this recipe brings warmth and satisfaction to every bowl.
My first experience with this soup was in a quaint Irish pub on a cold, rainy day. The warmth and rich aromas immediately lifted my spirits, and I’ve been making it ever since. With this recipe, you can recreate that same comforting atmosphere in your own kitchen, no matter where you are.
Ingredients
- 1/2 lb potatoes (about 2), washed
- 1/2 lb bacon, cut into small pieces
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 1 carrot, peeled and thinly sliced
- 4 to 5 cups chicken stock
- 1 bay leaf
- 1/2 cabbage, roughly chopped
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
- Cook the Potatoes: Start by thoroughly washing the potatoes. Microwave each one for about 7–8 minutes, then let them cool.
- Peel and Dice: Once cooled, peel the potatoes and cut them into medium chunks. Set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Bacon
- Render the Fat: In a large pot, cook the bacon over medium-low heat until crispy and golden, about 10–12 minutes.
- Drain: Remove the bacon and place on a paper towel, leaving about 2 tablespoons of bacon fat in the pot.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
- Add the chopped onion and sliced carrot to the bacon fat. Sauté over medium heat for 5–7 minutes, until the onions are translucent and the carrots begin to soften.
Step 4: Assemble the Soup
- Add Stock and Seasonings: Pour in the chicken stock and add the bay leaf. Stir to combine.
- Add Potatoes and Cabbage: Add the diced potatoes, cabbage, and reserved crispy bacon. Stir everything together.
- Simmer: Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce to a simmer for 20–25 minutes, until the potatoes and cabbage are tender.
Step 5: Season and Serve
- Season: Taste the soup and adjust with salt and pepper to your liking. Remove the bay leaf.
- Garnish and Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with chopped parsley, and serve hot with crusty bread or Irish soda bread.
Variations and Substitutions:
- Vegetarian Option: Omit the bacon and use vegetable broth. Add extra vegetables or beans for added protein and texture.
- Different Proteins: Substitute bacon with ham, sausage, or even turkey bacon for a lighter option.
- Spicy Twist: Add red pepper flakes or smoked paprika for a hint of spice.
- Creamy Version: For a creamier soup, stir in heavy cream or a dollop of sour cream before serving.