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Irish cuisine is celebrated for its hearty comfort foods, offering a warm embrace in every bite. With a rich history steeped in tradition, Irish meals often center around wholesome ingredients that are both filling and nutritious. One such delightful dish is the Hearty Irish Bacon, Cabbage, and Potato Soup, a classic that embodies the spirit of Irish cooking. This soup is not only a flavor-packed experience but also a dish that is rich in nutritional benefits, making it a perfect choice for anyone looking to indulge in a comforting meal.

Irish Bacon, Cabbage, and Potato Soup

Warm up this winter with a bowl of Hearty Irish Bacon, Cabbage, and Potato Soup. This comforting dish features smoky bacon, tender cabbage, and creamy potatoes, all simmered together to create a flavor-packed experience. Perfect for chilly nights, this soup not only satisfies your hunger but also brings a dose of nutrition with fiber and vitamins. Discover the cultural significance of these ingredients and enjoy a taste of traditional Irish cooking today!

Ingredients
  

6 ounces Irish bacon or thick-cut bacon, diced

1 medium onion, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced

4 cups cabbage, chopped (green or savoy)

6 cups chicken or vegetable broth

1 teaspoon thyme (fresh or dried)

1 bay leaf

Salt and black pepper to taste

2 tablespoons olive oil

1/4 cup heavy cream (optional)

Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions
 

Cook the Bacon: In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, add the diced Irish bacon. Cook until crispy and golden brown, about 5-7 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the bacon to a plate, leaving the rendered fat in the pot.

    Sauté the Aromatics: In the same pot with the bacon fat, add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

      Add the Vegetables: Add the diced potatoes and chopped cabbage to the pot, stirring to combine. Cook the vegetables for about 3-4 minutes, allowing them to soften slightly.

        Pour in the Broth: Stir in the chicken or vegetable broth. Add the thyme, bay leaf, and season with salt and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and let simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.

          Blend the Soup (Optional): If you prefer a smoother texture, you can use an immersion blender to blend part of the soup in the pot for a creamier consistency. Alternatively, blend a portion of the soup in a countertop blender and return it to the pot.

            Finish with Cream: If desired, stir in the heavy cream for added richness. Adjust seasoning if necessary.

              Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls, topping each with a sprinkle of crispy bacon and fresh parsley for garnish. Enjoy warm with crusty bread on the side.

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 10 minutes | 45 minutes | 4-6 servings