This Irish Bacon and Cabbage Soup is a hearty and flavorful dish that’s perfect for celebrating St. Patrick’s Day or any time you’re craving a warm and comforting meal. Made with simple ingredients like bacon, cabbage, potatoes, and broth, this soup is easy to make and is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe collection. Whether you’re Irish or just Irish at heart, this soup is a delicious way to enjoy the flavors of Ireland.
Ingredients for Irish Bacon and Cabbage Soup
- 6 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 4 cups cabbage, chopped
- 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
How to Make Irish Bacon and Cabbage Soup
Follow these steps to prepare and enjoy your Irish Bacon and Cabbage Soup:
Step 1: Cook the Bacon
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crisp. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set it aside, leaving the bacon drippings in the pot.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
- Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery to the pot with the bacon drippings. Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the vegetables are soft.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds, until fragrant.
Step 3: Add the Broth and Potatoes
- Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, scraping the bottom of the pot to loosen any browned bits. Bring the broth to a simmer.
- Add the diced potatoes and bay leaf to the pot. Simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
Step 4: Add the Cabbage
- Stir in the chopped cabbage and continue to simmer for another 10 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender.
Step 5: Season and Serve
- Season the soup with salt and pepper, to taste. Remove the bay leaf.
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with the crispy bacon and fresh parsley.
About the Main Ingredients
Bacon
- Bacon adds a smoky and savory flavor to the soup. It also provides a crispy texture and richness that complements the vegetables.
Cabbage
- Cabbage is a traditional Irish ingredient that adds sweetness and texture to the soup. It’s also packed with vitamins and fiber, making it a healthy addition to the dish.
Potatoes
- Potatoes are a staple in Irish cuisine and add heartiness to the soup. They also help thicken the broth and provide a comforting element to the dish.
Broth
- Chicken or vegetable broth forms the base of the soup, adding depth of flavor and richness. You can use store-bought broth or homemade broth for this recipe.
This Irish Bacon and Cabbage Soup is a delicious and comforting dish that’s perfect for celebrating St. Patrick’s Day or any day of the year. Made with simple ingredients and full of flavor, this soup is sure to warm you up from the inside out. Serve it with some crusty bread for a complete and satisfying meal.
