Irish Bacon Cabbage And Potato Soup Recipe

There's nothing quite as comforting as a warm, hearty bowl of Irish Bacon, Cabbage, and Potato Soup on a chilly day. This traditional dish combines tender potatoes, savory bacon, and sweet cabbage in a rich, flavorful broth that tastes like home. It's the perfect way to enjoy a taste of Ireland from your own kitchen.

I first discovered this soup while visiting family in Dublin, where it was served with thick slices of soda bread and plenty of butter. The combination of simple, wholesome ingredients and deep, satisfying flavors instantly won me over. Now, it's my go-to recipe whenever I need a cozy meal that warms both body and soul.

Why You'll Love This Irish Bacon, Cabbage, and Potato Soup

Get ready to fall in love with this rustic, satisfying soup. It's not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make, making it perfect for any home cook.

First, this soup is quick and fuss-free. With just a handful of simple ingredients and one pot, you can have a steaming bowl ready in under an hour. Perfect for busy weeknights!

It’s also budget-friendly. Potatoes, cabbage, and bacon are all affordable staples, making this an economical meal that doesn't compromise on flavor.

Not to mention, it’s deeply comforting. The creamy potatoes, smoky bacon, and tender cabbage create a beautifully balanced dish that feels like a warm hug in a bowl.

Best of all, it’s versatile. Whether you want to add extra veggies, swap out the bacon for ham, or make it vegetarian, this soup adapts easily to your preferences.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this Irish Bacon, Cabbage, and Potato Soup lies in its humble ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in delivering that signature comforting taste.

Bacon: Traditionally, Irish bacon (or back bacon) is used, which is leaner than American streaky bacon. If you can’t find it, thick-cut smoked bacon or pancetta works beautifully, adding richness and depth.

Potatoes: The heart of this soup! I recommend using Yukon Golds or Russet potatoes, as they break down slightly, creating a naturally creamy texture. Waxy potatoes like Red Bliss hold their shape better if you prefer a chunkier soup.

Cabbage: Green cabbage is the classic choice, bringing a subtle sweetness and texture. If you love a deeper flavor, try using Savoy or even Napa cabbage.

Broth: A good-quality chicken or vegetable broth forms the flavorful base. If you have homemade broth, even better!

Aromatics: Onion and garlic provide a wonderful foundation for the soup’s flavor. Some recipes also include leeks for an extra layer of sweetness.

A large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot is the ideal tool for making this soup, as it distributes heat evenly and allows for a slow, flavorful simmer.

How To Make This Irish Bacon, Cabbage, and Potato Soup

Making this soup is wonderfully simple, and the result is worth every step.

Start by cooking the bacon in a large pot over medium heat. Let it render its fat until it's crispy and golden. Once done, remove the bacon and set it aside, leaving the flavorful drippings in the pot.

Next, sauté the onions and garlic in the bacon drippings. Cook them until they’re soft and translucent, soaking up all that smoky goodness from the bacon.

Now, add the potatoes and broth. Bring everything to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer until the potatoes become tender. This takes about 15-20 minutes, depending on the type of potato used.

Once the potatoes are soft, stir in the cabbage. Let it cook for another 5-10 minutes, just until the cabbage is tender but still vibrant.

Finally, return the crispy bacon to the pot and give the soup a good stir. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and a pinch of thyme for extra warmth.

Serve steaming hot with a slice of Irish soda bread or crusty buttered toast. The total cooking time is about 45 minutes, making this a fantastic weeknight option!

Storage Options

This soup stores beautifully, making it a great meal prep option.

For refrigeration, let the soup cool completely, then store it in an airtight container for up to 4 days. The flavors actually improve over time, so it tastes even better the next day!

For freezing, portion the soup into freezer-safe containers, leaving a little space for expansion. It will keep well for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

To reheat, warm the soup gently over medium heat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally. If it thickens too much, just add a splash of broth or water to loosen it up.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this soup is how adaptable it is to different tastes and dietary needs.

For a vegetarian version, skip the bacon and use butter or olive oil to sauté the onions. Add a teaspoon of smoked paprika for a hint of that smoky depth.

If you prefer a creamier soup, stir in a splash of heavy cream or whole milk at the end. This gives it an even richer, silkier texture.

Want to pack in more veggies? Try adding carrots, parsnips, or leeks for extra sweetness and nutrition.

For an extra protein boost, swap the bacon for diced ham or shredded corned beef. Both bring a hearty, savory element to the soup.

And if you love spice, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce can add a little kick to each spoonful.

A Cozy Bowl of Comfort

This Irish Bacon, Cabbage, and Potato Soup is the definition of comfort food—simple, satisfying, and filled with nostalgic flavors. Whether you're celebrating St. Patrick’s Day or just craving a warm, hearty meal, this soup delivers every time. Enjoy it with friends, family, or just a cozy night in!

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