Total Time: 1 Hour
Introduction
Cozy up with a bowl of Traditional Irish Farmhouse Soup, a divine amalgamation of hearty vegetables, savory bacon, and tender cabbage. It’s not only visually appealing with a vibrant color scheme but a flavorful symphony capturing the essence of Irish farmhouse kitchens.
Why Make This Recipe
Homey, warm, and welcoming, this Irish Farmhouse Soup makes for an ideal evening meal, especially during the chilled winters. This recipe captures the rustic and earthy Irish cuisine, using simple ingredients that come together to create a surprisingly rich and complex flavor profile.
How to Make Traditional Irish Farmhouse Soup with Bacon and Cabbage
Ingredients:
– 6 slices of bacon, chopped
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
– 3 carrots, diced
– 1 small head of cabbage, chopped
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 tsp thyme
– 1 bay leaf
– Optional garnish: fresh parsley, chopped
Directions:
In a large pot, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Set aside but leave the drippings in the pot. Add diced onion and garlic to the pot and sauté until the onions become translucent. Stir in broth, diced potatoes, carrots, thyme, bay leaf, and salt and pepper to taste, and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce heat and let simmer until potatoes are tender. Add in the chopped cabbage and cooked bacon, and let simmer until the cabbage is tender. Discard the bay leaf, taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot with a garnish of fresh parsley.
How to Serve Traditional Irish Farmhouse Soup with Bacon and Cabbage
This hearty soup is best served piping hot right out of the pot. You can garnish it with fresh parsley for an additional pop of color and freshness. A side of crusty bread is a perfect companion to this rustic soup to soak up every last bit of the delicious broth.
How to Store Traditional Irish Farmhouse Soup with Bacon and Cabbage
Store any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate. This soup should keep for up to 3-4 days. Be sure to reheat it on the stove or in the microwave until thoroughly warmed before serving.
Tips to Make Traditional Irish Farmhouse Soup with Bacon and Cabbage
Ensure your vegetables, especially the potatoes and carrots, are cut uniformly to ensure even cooking. Also, remove the bay leaf before serving, it adds flavor during the cooking process but isn’t meant to be eaten.
Variation
This soup is quite versatile. You can substitute the bacon for sausage or even leave it out for a vegetarian version. Leeks or turnips can also be added for additional flavor.
FAQs
1. Can I use store-bought broth?
Absolutely. Using homemade or store-bought broth will work just fine for this recipe.
2. Can I substitute the bacon?
Yes, you can. If you want a vegetarian version, simply omit the bacon, or try it with sausage for a different flavor profile.
3. How long will the soup last in the refrigerator?
The soup should last 3-4 days in the refrigerator when stored in an airtight container.