Irish Bacon, Cabbage, and Potato Soup Recipe
Time Required:
Preparation: 15 minutes
Cooking: 45 minutes
Total: 1 hour
Introduction:
If you’re in need of a satisfying, flavorful soup that feels like a warm hug while eating, then look no further than this Irish Bacon, Cabbage, and Potato Soup. It’s a hearty blend of meaty Irish bacon, tender potatoes, and earthy cabbage, providing a comforting dish perfect for cold days or a quiet night in.
Why Make This Recipe:
This recipe not only offers a taste of traditional Irish cuisine, but its combination of ingredients ensures that it’s nutrient packed, healthy and caters to a balanced diet. The prep work is simple, and the one-pot nature of this recipe means clean up is a breeze.
How to Make Irish Bacon, Cabbage, and Potato Soup:
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Irish bacon (or thick-cut bacon), diced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups green cabbage, sliced
– 3 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Fresh parsley, for garnish
– Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
1. Start by cooking the diced bacon in a large pot over medium heat until crispy. Once cooked, remove and set aside, but keep the drippings in the pot.
2. Sauté the chopped onion in the bacon drippings until translucent. Add the garlic.
3. Add the cabbage and potatoes to the pot, followed by the broth, thyme, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring the mixture to boil and then reduce to low heat, let it simmer for about 30 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
5. Return the cooked bacon to the soup, adjust the seasoning if required.
6. Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve.
How to Serve Irish Bacon, Cabbage, and Potato Soup:
Hot off the stove, ladle into bowls and serve with a crusty slice of bread on the side. The freshness of the parsley garnish perfectly highlights the earthy and robust flavors within the soup.
How to Store Irish Bacon, Cabbage, and Potato Soup:
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should keep for about 3-4 days. For longer storage, it can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Tips to Make Irish Bacon, Cabbage, and Potato Soup:
Brown the bacon to a crispy texture. It gives the soup a heightened flavor. For a creamier texture, try using a potato masher to lightly mash the potatoes in the soup right before serving.
Variations (if any):
You can substitute traditional bacon for turkey bacon or even smoked sausage. Try red cabbage instead of green for a slightly sweeter taste.
FAQs:
1. Can I substitute the Irish bacon?
Yes, traditional thick-cut bacon, turkey bacon or a smoked sausage can be used.
2. Is it okay to use red cabbage?
Absolutely, red cabbage can provide a slightly sweeter taste and would work well in the soup.
3. Can this soup be made vegetarian?
Yes, just omit the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken.