Irish Turkey Bacon, Cabbage, and Potato Soup is a hearty, comforting dish inspired by traditional Irish flavors. This recipe uses wholesome ingredients like tender cabbage, creamy potatoes, and savory turkey bacon to create a delicious and nourishing meal. Perfect for chilly days or as a satisfying family dinner, this soup brings together earthy, rustic flavors with a modern twist. Using turkey bacon as a flavorful alternative ensures this dish is suitable for a variety of dietary needs while maintaining its rich, savory essence.
Whether you’re looking for a comforting meal to warm your soul or a versatile dish to share with loved ones, this recipe is easy to prepare and packed with nutritional benefits.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Classic Comfort: Combines traditional Irish flavors with a modern twist, making it both familiar and unique.
- Versatile and Satisfying: Perfect as a main course or a hearty appetizer.
- Nutritious: Packed with vegetables and protein, it’s a wholesome meal option.
- Easy to Make: Straightforward steps and simple ingredients make it ideal for beginners and seasoned cooks alike.
- Family-Friendly: Loved by kids and adults, with customizable flavors to suit everyone’s taste.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Freezes well and reheats beautifully for quick meals throughout the week.
- Economical: Uses affordable, accessible ingredients for a budget-friendly recipe.
Preparation Time and Servings
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 280
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Protein: 12g
- Fat: 10g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sugar: 5g
Ingredients
For the Soup Base
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 6 slices turkey bacon, chopped
- 1 medium onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
For the Vegetables
- 3 medium Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and diced
- 2 cups green cabbage, shredded
- 6 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
For Seasoning
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish (Optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- A dollop of sour cream
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Step 1: Sauté the Turkey Bacon
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add chopped turkey bacon and cook for 5-7 minutes until crispy. Remove and set aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pot.
- Step 2: Cook the Aromatics
- In the same pot, add diced onion, garlic, carrots, and celery.
- Sauté for 5-6 minutes until vegetables are softened and fragrant.
- Step 3: Add Potatoes and Seasoning
- Stir in the diced potatoes, thyme, smoked paprika, and bay leaf.
- Mix well to coat the vegetables with seasoning.
- Step 4: Incorporate Broth
- Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, stirring to combine.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for 20 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
- Step 5: Add Cabbage and Turkey Bacon
- Stir in the shredded cabbage and half of the cooked turkey bacon.
- Simmer for an additional 10 minutes until the cabbage is tender.
- Step 6: Adjust Seasoning
- Remove the bay leaf and taste the soup. Adjust salt and pepper as needed.
- Step 7: Serve and Garnish
- Ladle the soup into bowls. Garnish with fresh parsley, a dollop of sour cream, and the remaining turkey bacon for added crunch.
Ingredient Background
- Turkey Bacon: A leaner alternative to traditional bacon, it adds a smoky, savory flavor without excess fat.
- Cabbage: A nutrient-rich vegetable that brings a hearty texture and subtle sweetness to the soup.
- Yukon Gold Potatoes: Known for their creamy texture, they thicken the soup naturally while adding a buttery flavor.
- Smoked Paprika: Adds depth and a hint of smokiness, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
- Thyme and Bay Leaf: Classic herbs that provide earthy, aromatic notes to the broth.
Technique Tips
- Chop Vegetables Evenly: Uniform pieces ensure even cooking and a better texture in every bite.
- Cook Bacon First: Starting with turkey bacon creates a flavorful base for the soup.
- Simmer, Don’t Boil: Keeping the soup at a gentle simmer prevents the vegetables from breaking down too much.
- Taste and Adjust: Season gradually and taste frequently to ensure balanced flavors.
- Shred Cabbage Thinly: Thinly sliced cabbage cooks evenly and integrates seamlessly into the soup.
Alternative Presentation Ideas
- Rustic Bread Bowl: Serve the soup in hollowed-out bread bowls for a fun and rustic presentation.
- Creamy Style: Blend half the soup for a creamier texture while leaving some chunks intact.
- Topped with Croutons: Add homemade croutons for extra crunch.
- Elegant Plating: Serve in individual ceramic bowls with a sprig of parsley for a dinner-party-worthy presentation.
Additional Tips for Success
- Layer Flavors: Cook ingredients in stages to build depth of flavor.
- Make Ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.
- Use a Mandoline: A mandoline slicer is great for quickly shredding cabbage into even strips.
- Enhance Creaminess: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk for a richer broth.
- Add Heat: For a spicier kick, sprinkle in a pinch of red pepper flakes.
Recipe Variations
- Vegetarian Version: Omit turkey bacon and use vegetable broth. Add beans or lentils for protein.
- Spicy Twist: Include a diced jalapeño or cayenne pepper for heat.
- Cheesy Topping: Stir in shredded sharp cheddar just before serving.
- Root Vegetable Blend: Add parsnips, turnips, or sweet potatoes for a mix of flavors.
- Herbaceous Option: Garnish with dill or chives for a fresh twist.
Freezing and Storage
- Freezing: Allow soup to cool completely, then transfer to airtight containers or freezer bags. Freeze for up to 3 months.
- Thawing and Reheating: Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop over medium heat.
- Storing Leftovers: Store in the refrigerator in a covered container for up to 4 days.
Healthier Twist Ideas
- Lower Carb Option: Replace potatoes with cauliflower for a lighter version.
- Increase Fiber: Add kale, spinach, or other leafy greens in place of some cabbage.
- Lower Sodium: Use reduced-sodium broth and season with fresh herbs instead of salt.
- Add Protein: Incorporate shredded chicken or chickpeas for additional protein.
Serving Suggestions for Events
- St. Patrick’s Day Celebration: Serve alongside soda bread and butter for a festive Irish-themed meal.
- Casual Family Dinner: Pair with a side salad and crusty bread for a complete dinner.
- Comfort Food Night: Serve with a plate of roasted vegetables or a baked potato.
- Lunch Gathering: Offer the soup in small bowls as a starter or light lunch.
Special Equipment
- Large Soup Pot: A heavy-bottomed pot ensures even cooking and prevents sticking.
- Sharp Knife: Essential for chopping vegetables efficiently.
- Ladle: For easy serving.
- Mandoline Slicer: Optional but helpful for shredding cabbage quickly.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use regular bacon instead of turkey bacon?
Yes, regular bacon works too, but adjust cooking time and fat content accordingly. - Can I make this soup dairy-free?
Absolutely! Skip the sour cream garnish and ensure your broth is dairy-free. - Can I add more vegetables?
Yes, vegetables like leeks, parsnips, or zucchini would be great additions. - Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes, combine all ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. - What’s the best way to shred cabbage?
A sharp knife or mandoline slicer works best for thin, even shreds. - Can I substitute red cabbage?
Red cabbage can be used, but it will alter the soup’s color and slightly change the flavor. - How can I thicken the soup?
Mash a few of the cooked potatoes into the broth for a naturally thickened texture. - Is this soup freezer-friendly?
Yes, it freezes well. Just leave out the cabbage when freezing and add it fresh when reheating.
Conclusion
Irish Turkey Bacon, Cabbage, and Potato Soup is the ultimate comfort food, offering a blend of traditional flavors with a healthier twist. This easy-to-make dish brings together tender vegetables, smoky turkey bacon, and a rich broth for a wholesome meal that warms both the body and soul. Perfect for any occasion, this soup is versatile, family-friendly, and packed with nourishing ingredients. Serve it with fresh bread or enjoy it on its own either way, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Happy cooking!
Print
Irish Turkey Bacon, Cabbage, and Potato Soup Recipe
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Ingredients
Scale
Ingredients
For the Soup Base
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 6 slices turkey bacon, chopped
- 1 medium onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
For the Vegetables
- 3 medium Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and diced
- 2 cups green cabbage, shredded
- 6 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
For Seasoning
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish (Optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- A dollop of sour cream
Instructions
- Step 1: Sauté the Turkey Bacon
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add chopped turkey bacon and cook for 5-7 minutes until crispy. Remove and set aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pot.
- Step 2: Cook the Aromatics
- In the same pot, add diced onion, garlic, carrots, and celery.
- Sauté for 5-6 minutes until vegetables are softened and fragrant.
- Step 3: Add Potatoes and Seasoning
- Stir in the diced potatoes, thyme, smoked paprika, and bay leaf.
- Mix well to coat the vegetables with seasoning.
- Step 4: Incorporate Broth
- Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, stirring to combine.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for 20 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
- Step 5: Add Cabbage and Turkey Bacon
- Stir in the shredded cabbage and half of the cooked turkey bacon.
- Simmer for an additional 10 minutes until the cabbage is tender.
- Step 6: Adjust Seasoning
- Remove the bay leaf and taste the soup. Adjust salt and pepper as needed.
- Step 7: Serve and Garnish
- Ladle the soup into bowls. Garnish with fresh parsley, a dollop of sour cream, and the remaining turkey bacon for added crunch.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 5g
- Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 12g