If you’re craving a comforting bowl that warms the soul and delights the taste buds, look no further than this Irish Bacon, Cabbage, and Potato Soup Recipe. It brings together crispy, savory bacon with tender cabbage and creamy potatoes, all simmered in a flavorful chicken stock. Each spoonful offers the perfect balance of smoky, sweet, and earthy notes that feel like a cozy hug on a chilly day. This traditional Irish-inspired dish is both simple to make and irresistibly hearty, making it a beloved favorite for casual dinners or family meals.

A white bowl filled with a warm soup showing three main layers. The bottom layer is a reddish-orange broth with a smooth but slightly oily texture. The second layer has large slices of orange carrot, pale yellow potato pieces, and light green cabbage leaves, all partially submerged in the broth. The top layer shows small pieces of pinkish-red meat scattered around, along with fresh green parsley leaves for garnish. A silver spoon is placed inside the bowl on the right side, with the edge resting on the white marbled surface. The background includes a blurred white bowl and green leaf. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering just a handful of wholesome ingredients, this soup shines because of its simplicity. Each component plays a crucial role in building the layers of flavor, from the crispy bacon rendering its smoky essence to the tender potatoes providing hearty creaminess and the cabbage adding a subtle sweetness and vibrant texture.

Bacon (1/2 lb, cut into quarter pieces): Brings savory richness and a delightful crisp that infuses the entire soup.
Onion (1, finely chopped): Adds a mild sweetness and forms the aromatic base when sautéed.
Cabbage (1/2, roughly chopped): Offers texture and a gentle, comforting earthiness.
Potatoes (1/2 lb, washed and diced): Create creamy thickness and substance to the soup.
Carrot (1, peeled and finely sliced): Lends a hint of natural sweetness and color.
Chicken stock (4 to 5 cups): The flavorful liquid foundation that ties all ingredients together.
Bay leaf (1): Provides a subtle depth of herbal aroma during simmering.
Kosher salt and black pepper (to taste): Essential seasonings that enhance every flavor.
Parsley (chopped, for garnish): Adds fresh color and a mild herbal brightness as a finishing touch.

How to Make Irish Bacon, Cabbage, and Potato Soup Recipe

Step 1: Crisp the Bacon

Start by heating a large pot over medium heat and cooking the bacon pieces until they are beautifully crispy, usually around 5 to 7 minutes. This step is crucial because the rendered bacon fat left behind will become the flavor base for the soup, so be sure to save it and remove the bacon with a slotted spoon, placing it aside once done.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

Using that flavorful bacon fat, add the finely chopped onion to the pot and cook for about 3 to 4 minutes until soft and translucent. Follow by adding the sliced carrot and cook an additional couple of minutes. These steps deepen the soup’s flavor and add a gentle sweetness.

Step 3: Add Potatoes and Cabbage

Next, toss in the diced potatoes and roughly chopped cabbage. Season generously with salt and black pepper. Let them cook in the pot for 3 to 4 minutes, just enough to soften but still retain their texture, which will create a wonderful contrast in your finished soup.

Step 4: Simmer the Soup

Pour in 4 to 5 cups of chicken stock and add the bay leaf for subtle herbal notes. Bring the mixture to a boil, then lower the heat and let it simmer gently for 15 to 20 minutes. This slow simmer helps the potatoes and cabbage become tender without losing their character, enriching the overall broth with hearty flavors.

Step 5: Finish with Bacon

Return the crispy bacon you saved earlier to the pot, stirring it through to spread the smoky goodness evenly. Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if necessary. This final touch ensures every bite is perfectly balanced.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

Ladle the soup into bowls and sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top. This not only adds a pop of color but also a fresh herbal note that brightens up the warm, comforting flavors below.

How to Serve Irish Bacon, Cabbage, and Potato Soup Recipe

Irish Bacon, Cabbage, and Potato Soup Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

An easy way to elevate your soup is the addition of fresh parsley, which provides a lovely color contrast and a hint of brightness. For an extra indulgent touch, you might sprinkle some grated sharp cheddar or cracked black pepper to enhance the flavors further.

Side Dishes

This soup pairs wonderfully with rustic soda bread or crusty artisan bread to soak up every last bit of broth. A side of buttered green beans or a simple mixed green salad can round out the meal to make it light yet satisfying.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve this soup in charming ceramic bowls to bring out the cozy, homey feel. For special gatherings, offer it in smaller portions as part of an Irish-themed meal or garnish bowls with a small wedge of lemon to add a surprising zesty finish that complements the soup’s richness.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can easily store leftover Irish Bacon, Cabbage, and Potato Soup Recipe in the refrigerator for up to three days in an airtight container. This makes it perfect for quick lunches or days when you want a warm, comforting meal without extra effort.

Freezing

This soup freezes beautifully. Just cool completely, transfer to freezer-safe containers, and store for up to three months. When freezing, avoid adding fresh herbs in advance, as they lose their vibrancy during freezing.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stove over low-medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. If the soup has thickened too much, feel free to add a splash of water or stock to loosen it back up to your desired consistency.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of bacon for this soup?

Absolutely! While Irish bacon is traditional, using regular smoked bacon or even pancetta will add a lovely smoky flavor. Just ensure it crisps nicely for the best texture.

Is this soup suitable for vegetarians?

Not as-is since it relies on bacon and chicken stock. However, you can make a vegetarian version by omitting the bacon and using vegetable broth instead, adding smoked paprika or liquid smoke for that signature smoky taste.

Can I add other vegetables to the soup?

Yes, feel free to add diced celery or leeks with the onions for more depth, or some kale in place of cabbage for a different texture. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

How thick should the soup be?

This soup strikes a balance — it should have a slightly creamy texture thanks to the potatoes but remain brothy enough to spoon easily. If it’s too thick, add stock to thin it; too thin, simmer uncovered to reduce.

What’s the best way to reheat without losing flavor?

Slowly warming the soup on the stovetop over low heat preserves its flavors and texture better than the microwave. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating and avoid drying out or burning the base.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about making and sharing this Irish Bacon, Cabbage, and Potato Soup Recipe. It invites you to slow down, savor simple ingredients, and enjoy a rich tapestry of flavors that feel like home. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just looking for a reliable, hearty dish, this soup is bound to become one of your go-to comfort foods. So grab your pot, gather those ingredients, and dive into the cozy world of this timeless Irish delight—you won’t regret it!

Irish Bacon, Cabbage, and Potato Soup Recipe