Warm up with a comforting bowl of Hearty Irish Bacon, Cabbage, and Potato Soup. This traditional Irish dish is a perfect blend of smoky bacon, tender potatoes, and savory cabbage, all simmered together in a flavorful broth. It’s a simple, rustic soup that’s both nourishing and satisfying, making it ideal for a cozy meal on a chilly day. Whether you’re looking to celebrate your Irish heritage or simply enjoy a delicious bowl of soup, this recipe is sure to hit the spot.
Ingredients:
- 6 strips of Irish bacon or hearty cut bacon, chopped into pieces
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 3 large potatoes, peeled and diced
- 3 cups green cabbage, shredded
- 1 cup carrots, sliced
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste
- 1 cup heavy cream (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Cook the Bacon: In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until it is crispy and browned. Lift the bacon out with a slotted spoon and transfer it to a plate lined with paper towels to drain. Keep the bacon fat in the pot.Top of FormBottom of Form
- Sauté the Aromatics: Add the chopped onion to the pot with the bacon drippings. Sauté for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion is soft and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, or until it becomes aromatic.
- Add the Broth and Vegetables: Pour in the chicken broth, and then add the diced potatoes, shredded cabbage, sliced carrots, bay leaf, dried thyme, black pepper, and a pinch of salt. Stir to combine.
- Cook the Soup: Heat the soup until it reaches a rolling boil, then lower the heat to let it gently simmer. Cover the pot and let the soup simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes and carrots are tender.
- Optional – Add Cream: If you prefer a creamier soup, stir in the heavy cream at this point. Let the soup continue to simmer for another 5 minutes to ensure it’s thoroughly warmed.
- Finish and Serve: Remove the bay leaf from the soup and discard it. Sample the soup and tweak the flavors by adding extra salt and pepper if necessary. Stir the cooked bacon back into the soup.
- Garnish: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve hot, and enjoy the hearty flavors of this traditional Irish dish.
Conclusion:
This Hearty Irish Bacon, Cabbage, and Potato Soup is a soul-warming dish that brings together the classic flavors of Ireland in a comforting, satisfying way. The smoky bacon, tender vegetables, and rich broth make it a perfect meal for any time of year, especially when you’re in need of some comfort food. Whether you enjoy it on its own or with a slice of crusty bread, this soup is sure to become a favorite in your home. Give it a try, and experience the taste of Ireland in your own kitchen!