When winter’s chill sets in, there’s nothing quite like a hearty soup to warm you up. This Irish Bacon Cabbage and Potato Soup is the epitome of comfort food, combining simple, wholesome ingredients into a flavorful and filling meal. Perfect for both weekday dinners and cozy weekends, this no-fuss recipe is a celebration of traditional Irish cuisine.
This soup is a testament to the idea that frugal cooking doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor. With bacon, cabbage, potatoes, carrots, and onions as the stars, it’s a dish that’s both economical and satisfying. The bacon is rendered to add richness, while the vegetables provide texture and bulk, making every spoonful a delight.
To streamline the cooking process, the potatoes are microwaved whole before being peeled and chopped, saving time without compromising taste. This time-saving tip ensures you can enjoy this soup even on busy days. Once everything is combined in the pot, the flavors meld together beautifully, creating a warm and comforting dish that’s perfect for the colder months.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 lb bacon, cut into quarter pieces
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 1 carrot, peeled and finely sliced
- 4 to 5 cups chicken stock
- 1 bay leaf
- 1/2 cabbage, roughly chopped
- Parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
- 4 medium potatoes, microwaved, peeled, and chopped
Preparation:
- Microwave the potatoes one at a time until slightly cooked (about 7-8 minutes at 600 watts). Let them rest, peel, and chop into medium pieces. Set aside.
- In a large pot over medium-low heat, cook the bacon until crispy, rendering the fat. Remove the bacon and set aside, leaving about 2 tablespoons of fat in the pot.
- Sauté the onions and carrots in the bacon fat until softened and fragrant (about 5-7 minutes), stirring occasionally.
- Add the chicken stock, bay leaf, cabbage, chopped potatoes, and cooked bacon to the pot.
- Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cook until the potatoes and cabbage are tender (about 20-25 minutes).
- Season with salt and pepper, remove the bay leaf, and garnish with parsley.
- Serve hot and enjoy this comforting Irish classic!
This Irish Bacon Cabbage and Potato Soup is not just a meal—it’s a hug in a bowl. Perfect for family dinners or meal prep, it’s a recipe you’ll return to again and again.
