Description
Few dishes embody the heartiness of Irish cuisine like this Irish Potato, Cabbage, and Bacon Soup. Packed with tender potatoes, crispy bacon, sweet carrots, and fresh cabbage, this comforting one-pot meal is rich in flavor and history. Whether for a cozy night in, a family gathering, or a St. Patrick’s Day celebration, this rustic soup is sure to warm your soul with every spoonful.
Ingredients
- 2 medium potatoes, scrubbed and diced
- 8 oz bacon, diced into small chunks
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 large carrot, peeled and thinly sliced
- 4–5 cups chicken or vegetable stock
- 1 bay leaf
- ½ head cabbage, roughly chopped
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Salt & black pepper, to taste
Instructions
1. Crisp the Bacon
In a large pot over medium heat, cook the diced bacon until crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon, leaving the rendered fat in the pot for flavor.
2. Sauté the Aromatics
Add the chopped onion to the bacon fat and sauté until translucent. Stir in the sliced carrots and cook for a few minutes to enhance their sweetness.
3. Cook the Potatoes & Stock
Add the diced potatoes to the pot and coat them in the aromatics. Pour in the chicken or vegetable stock, add the bay leaf, and bring to a gentle boil.
4. Simmer for Flavor
Reduce heat and let the soup simmer for about 15 minutes or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
5. Add the Cabbage
Stir in the chopped cabbage and allow it to simmer uncovered for another 10 minutes.
6. Final Touches & Serve
Return the crispy bacon to the pot, season with salt and black pepper, and remove the bay leaf. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with crusty bread.
Notes
- Make-Ahead Tip: This soup tastes even better the next day as flavors deepen.
- Vegetarian Option: Skip the bacon and use vegetable broth; add white beans for extra protein.
- Creamy Twist: Stir in a splash of heavy cream for a velvety texture.
- Storage: Refrigerate leftovers for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Irish