Classic Irish-Style Bacon, Cabbage, and Potato Soup is a deeply comforting, rustic dish that reflects the heart of traditional Irish home cooking. Smoky bacon, soft potatoes, and tender cabbage simmer together in a savory broth, creating a soup that is warming, nourishing, and wonderfully satisfying.
This soup is ideal for cold days, cozy family dinners, or simple weeknight meals when comfort and simplicity matter most. Moreover, it relies on humble ingredients transformed through slow, gentle cooking into a bowl full of warmth and rich aroma.
Servings
Servings: 4–6 servings
Perfect as a main course served with crusty bread or as a hearty starter for a traditional meal.
Time Required for Classic Irish-Style Bacon, Cabbage, and Potato Soup
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Prep Time: 20 minutes
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Cook Time: 45 minutes
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Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Ingredients
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200 g smoked bacon or Irish-style rashers, diced
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1 tbsp butter or oil
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1 medium onion (120 g), finely chopped
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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600 g potatoes, peeled and diced
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300 g green cabbage, chopped
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2 medium carrots (150 g), sliced
Liquids & Seasoning
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1.2 L chicken or vegetable stock
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1 bay leaf
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½ tsp dried thyme
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Salt, to taste
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Freshly ground black pepper
Optional Finishing
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Fresh parsley, chopped
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A knob of butter for richness
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Render the bacon
First, place a large pot over medium heat and add the diced bacon. Cook slowly until the fat renders and the bacon becomes lightly crisp. This step builds the smoky foundation of the soup.
Step 2: Build the aromatic base
Next, add the butter (if needed), onion, and garlic to the pot. Sauté gently until the onion is soft and translucent, scraping up any flavorful bits from the bottom.
Step 3: Add vegetables
Then, add the diced potatoes and sliced carrots. Stir well to coat them in the bacon fat, allowing the vegetables to absorb flavor.
Step 4: Pour in the stock
Pour in the stock, then add the bay leaf and thyme. Bring the soup to a gentle boil. Meanwhile, the aromas will begin to develop.
Step 5: Simmer slowly
Reduce the heat to low and simmer uncovered for 20 minutes, or until the potatoes begin to soften.
Step 6: Add the cabbage
Next, stir in the chopped cabbage. Continue to simmer for another 15–20 minutes until all vegetables are tender and the broth is rich and balanced.
Step 7: Season and finish
Finally, season with salt and black pepper to taste. Remove the bay leaf, stir in fresh parsley if using, and allow the soup to rest for a few minutes before serving.
Variations of Classic Irish-Style Bacon, Cabbage, and Potato Soup
Creamy Version
Blend a portion of the soup or add 100 ml of cream or milk for a softer, creamier texture.
With Sausage
Moreover, replace bacon with Irish sausages or smoked kielbasa for a heartier, meat-forward variation.
Vegetarian Version
Omit the bacon and use butter, leeks, and vegetable stock for a comforting meat-free alternative.
Extra-Hearty Version
Additionally, add white beans or barley to make the soup more filling.
Seasonal Twist
In spring, add leeks; in winter, parsnips bring extra sweetness and depth.
Tips for Perfect Results – Classic Irish-Style Bacon, Cabbage, and Potato Soup
Use starchy potatoes
Floury potatoes help naturally thicken the broth.
Don’t rush the bacon
However, slow rendering ensures deep flavor without burning.
Season at the end
Bacon and stock vary in saltiness, so adjust seasoning only after simmering.
Let it rest
In addition, resting time allows flavors to fully develop.
Storage advice
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This soup reheats beautifully and often tastes even better the next day. Freezing is possible for up to 2 months.
Final Thoughts
Classic Irish-Style Bacon, Cabbage, and Potato Soup is a timeless recipe that celebrates simplicity, tradition, and comfort. With smoky bacon, tender vegetables, and a savory broth, it delivers warmth and nourishment in every spoonful. Whether enjoyed as a family meal or a quiet bowl on a cold evening, this soup remains a beloved classic that never goes out of style.
