Cook the bacon
Heat a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped bacon and cook until it’s crispy and golden brown. This takes about 5-7 minutes. Remove the bacon pieces using a slotted spoon and set them aside on a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Leave the flavorful drippings in the pot—they’ll infuse the soup with a smoky depth of flavor.
Sauté the onion
Add the diced onion to the pot with the reserved bacon drippings. Cook over medium heat for about 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion becomes soft and translucent. The onion will absorb the bacon flavor, creating a flavorful base for the soup.
Add the broth
Pour in the chicken broth, stirring gently to combine with the sautéed onion and any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Bring the broth to a gentle simmer, ensuring the flavors meld together.
Combine the vegetables
Add the shredded cabbage and diced potatoes to the pot. Stir to coat the vegetables evenly with the broth. Season with salt and pepper to your taste.
Cook until tender
Reduce the heat to low and cover the pot with a lid. Let the soup simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender and the cabbage has softened. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
Assemble and garnish
Once the soup is done, ladle it into bowls. Top each serving with a generous amount of the reserved crispy bacon and a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
Serve hot
Serve the soup while it’s hot and steaming, paired with crusty bread or Irish soda bread for dipping. Enjoy the warm, hearty flavors that make this dish so comforting.
Additional Details:
For an extra creamy texture, you can mash some of the potatoes directly in the pot before serving.
Feel free to adjust the seasoning as needed; a dash of smoked paprika or garlic powder can add even more depth.
This step-by-step method ensures your Irish Bacon, Cabbage, and Potato Soup is rich, hearty, and filled with incredible flavor in every spoonful!
How to Serve Irish Bacon, Cabbage, and Potato Soup
