Irish Bacon, Cabbage, and Potato Soup

As a child, I recall walking into my grandmother’s kitchen, enveloped in the aroma of sizzling bacon mingling with the earthy scent of cabbage and potatoes. It was like a warm hug on a chilly Irish day — comforting and inviting. This Irish Bacon, Cabbage, and Potato Soup has been a beloved family recipe for generations, particularly during the colder months when the world outside seems a little too frosty. The savory taste of crispy bacon paired with tender potatoes and sweet cabbage creates a dish that not only warms your belly but also nourishes your soul. With each spoonful, you’ll feel the love and tradition wrapped in every ingredient. Trust me, you’ll be hooked on this lovely bowl of goodness, just as my family has been.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple and Quick: Perfect for busy weeknights, this soup comes together in about 30 minutes.
• Healthy Comfort Food: Packed with nutritious vegetables and hearty bacon, it’s nourishing without skimping on flavor.
• Flavorful: The combination of smoky bacon, sweet cabbage, and creamy potatoes will leave you craving more.
• Crowd-Pleasing: Whether it’s family or friends, everyone will love this cozy, hearty soup.
• Flexible Ingredients: Can easily be altered based on what you have on hand.

Ingredients

• 4 slices of bacon: The star of the show! Crisping it up will give our soup a smoky depth of flavor.
• 1 medium onion, chopped: Adds a lovely sweetness when sautéed and builds the base flavor.
• 4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced: Creamy and filling; they will give the soup its hearty texture.
• 4 cups of vegetable or chicken broth: The liquid gold that brings everything together. Use homemade if you can!
• 2 cups of cabbage, chopped: This leafy green adds a delightful crunch and sweetness when cooked down.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for enhancing all the coastal flavors in your pot.
• 1 tablespoon of olive oil (optional): If you want to caramelize your onions even more, a splash of olive oil can help!
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional): A sprinkle of green adds color and freshness at the end.

Full recipe card is below.

How to Make It

1. Cook the Bacon

In a large pot, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. You’ll know it’s ready when the sizzling turns to a dance and the aroma fills your kitchen with smoky goodness! Remove the bacon and set it aside, leaving some delightful drippings in the pot.

2. Sauté the Onions

Add the chopped onion to the pot and sauté until it’s translucent, about 5 minutes. Ahh, can you smell that? The sweet, caramelized aroma is heavenly!

3. Add the Potatoes

Stir in the diced potatoes and let them cook for a few minutes, just to soak up those delicious bacon drippings.

4. Pour in the Broth

Here comes the magic! Pour in the broth and bring everything to a gentle boil. Once it bubbles cheerfully, reduce the heat and let it simmer until the potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes.

5. Add Cabbage and Bacon

Toss in the chopped cabbage and those crispy bacon bits back into the pot. Cook for an additional 10 minutes, allowing all those flavors to meld together beautifully.

6. Season

Now it’s time to season with salt and pepper to taste. Remember, it’s about personal preference here, so adjust as needed!

7. Serve and Garnish

Serve hot, and if you’re feeling fancy, garnish with fresh parsley.

Pro Tips for Success

• Don’t rush the bacon! Crisping it up perfectly will elevate the overall flavor of your soup.
• If you like your soup a bit thicker, mash some of the cooked potatoes against the side of the pot.
• Keep the cabbage crunchy by not overcooking it; there’s something delightful about that texture!

Flavor Variations

• Try adding carrots for additional sweetness.
• Substitute the bacon with smoked sausage or a veggie bacon alternative for a twist.
• Add herbs like thyme or dill for an aromatic boost.

Serving Suggestions

• This soup pairs wonderfully with warm crusty bread or fresh rolls.
• A light salad on the side can be refreshing, providing a crisp contrast to the warm, hearty soup.
• For drinks, think of a smooth Irish stout to complement the savory notes.

Make-Ahead & Storage

You can prep the ingredients ahead of time and store them in containers in the fridge for a quick throw-together meal. The soup can be kept in an airtight container in the fridge for about 3-4 days.

Leftovers

Turn leftovers into a savory shepherd’s pie! Just layer the soup mixture in a baking dish, top with mashed potatoes, and bake until golden and bubbly.

Freezing

Yes, this soup can be frozen! Cool the soup completely, then pour it into freezer bags, removing excess air before sealing. Use it within three months for best quality.

Reheating

For the best results, reheat in a pot over low heat, stirring occasionally. If you’re pressed for time, the microwave works just fine — just give it a good stir halfway through heating!

FAQs

Can I use a different type of meat?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with smoked sausage or your favorite protein.

Can I make this vegetarian?
Sure thing! Just omit the bacon and use vegetable broth. You can still get a rich flavor by roasting the vegetables beforehand.

How do I know if my potatoes are tender?
You can check by poking them with a fork; they should slide in easily.

Can I add spice to it?
Definitely! A dash of red pepper flakes or a sprinkle of smoked paprika can add a lovely kick!

Final Thoughts

Ah, my dear friends, as you cozy up with a bowl of this Irish Bacon, Cabbage, and Potato Soup, may it warm your heart and fill your tummy with happiness. There’s something so special about gathering around a table, laughter filling the air as you share this delicious creation. I hope you enjoy every delightful bite as much as I do! Happy cooking, and remember — cooking is all about love, joy, and a sprinkle of laughter! 💚