Bacon Cabbage Potato Soup: A Hearty & Delicious Recipe

Bacon cabbage potato soup: just the name conjures up images of cozy evenings and the comforting aroma of a hearty, home-cooked meal, doesn’t it? This isn’t just any soup; it’s a warm hug in a bowl, a symphony of savory flavors that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you feeling utterly satisfied. Have you ever craved a dish that’s both incredibly delicious and surprisingly easy to make? Well, look no further!

This humble soup has roots in peasant cuisine, where resourceful cooks made the most of simple, readily available ingredients. Cabbage, potatoes, and bacon – staples in many cultures – come together in perfect harmony. While variations exist across different regions, the core essence remains the same: a celebration of simple, wholesome goodness. It’s a testament to how truly delicious food can be created from the most basic components.

People adore bacon cabbage potato soup for its incredible depth of flavor. The smoky bacon infuses every spoonful with a rich, savory note, while the cabbage adds a subtle sweetness and satisfying crunch. The potatoes provide a creamy, comforting base that ties everything together. It’s a textural masterpiece, a delightful dance of soft and crisp that keeps you coming back for more. Plus, it’s incredibly convenient! This one-pot wonder is perfect for busy weeknights, requiring minimal effort and cleanup. So, are you ready to experience the magic of this classic soup? Let’s get cooking!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 pound bacon, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 6 cups chicken broth
• 4 cups water
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 2 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1 medium head of cabbage, cored and shredded
• 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Rendering the Bacon and Building the Flavor Base

Okay, let’s get started! The first step is all about building a delicious, smoky foundation for our soup. We’re going to render the bacon and use those flavorful drippings to sauté the aromatics. This is where the magic happens, so pay attention!

1. Cook the Bacon: Place the bacon pieces in a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the bacon is crispy and has rendered most of its fat. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Be patient and don’t rush this step; we want that bacon nice and crispy!
2. Remove the Bacon: Using a slotted spoon, remove the crispy bacon from the pot and set it aside on a plate lined with paper towels to drain. Try not to eat it all just yet! We’ll need it later.
3. Sauté the Onion: Leave about 2 tablespoons of bacon fat in the pot (drain off any excess). Add the chopped onion to the pot and cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. The onions should be fragrant and starting to turn a light golden color.
4. Add the Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for another minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.

Building the Soup

Now that we have our flavorful base, it’s time to add the liquids, herbs, and potatoes that will form the heart of our soup. This is where the soup really starts to come together, and the aroma will fill your kitchen!

1. Add Broth, Water, and Spices: Pour the chicken broth and water into the pot. Add the dried thyme, dried rosemary, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir to combine.
2. Add the Potatoes: Add the cubed potatoes to the pot. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender. You should be able to easily pierce them with a fork.

Adding the Cabbage and Finishing Touches

The final steps involve adding the cabbage, which will provide a lovely texture and subtle sweetness to the soup. We’ll also season to taste and add a touch of cream (if desired) for richness. This is where we fine-tune the flavors and make the soup truly our own!

1. Add the Cabbage: Stir in the shredded cabbage. Continue to simmer, covered, for another 5-7 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender-crisp. We don’t want the cabbage to become mushy, so keep an eye on it.
2. Season to Taste: Season the soup with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Be sure to taste as you go and adjust the seasoning as needed. Remember that the bacon is already salty, so start with a small amount of salt and add more if necessary.
3. Add the Cream (Optional): If desired, stir in the heavy cream for a richer, creamier soup. This is totally optional, but it adds a lovely touch of indulgence.
4. Return the Bacon: Stir in most of the cooked bacon, reserving a small amount for garnish.
5. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with the reserved crispy bacon and fresh chopped parsley. Serve hot and enjoy!

Tips and Variations:

• Smoked Paprika: For an extra smoky flavor, add 1/2 teaspoon of smoked paprika along with the other spices.
• Different Potatoes: Feel free to use other types of potatoes, such as Russet or red potatoes. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
• Vegetarian Option: To make this soup vegetarian, omit the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add a tablespoon of olive oil to the pot before sautéing the onion to provide some richness. Consider adding smoked salt for a smoky flavor.
• Spicy Kick: If you like a little heat, add more red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
• Thickening the Soup: If you prefer a thicker soup, you can mash some of the potatoes with a potato masher or immersion blender before adding the cabbage. Be careful not to over-blend, as you don’t want the soup to become too smooth.
• Make Ahead: This soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will actually meld together and improve over time.
• Freezing: This soup also freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Serving Suggestions: Serve this soup with a side of crusty bread or a grilled cheese sandwich for a complete and satisfying meal.

Enjoy your delicious Bacon Cabbage Potato Soup!

Conclusion:

This Bacon Cabbage Potato Soup isn’t just another soup recipe; it’s a hearty, flavorful, and comforting experience in a bowl. From the smoky richness of the bacon to the earthy sweetness of the cabbage and the creamy texture of the potatoes, every spoonful is a delightful symphony of tastes and textures. I truly believe this is a must-try recipe for anyone looking for a satisfying and easy-to-make meal, especially on a chilly evening.

What makes this soup so special is its versatility. It’s incredibly adaptable to your personal preferences and dietary needs. Feel free to experiment with different types of bacon; thick-cut bacon will add even more smoky flavor, while turkey bacon offers a leaner alternative. You can also adjust the amount of cabbage to your liking – some prefer a more cabbage-forward soup, while others prefer a more subtle flavor.

For serving suggestions, I love to top my bowl of Bacon Cabbage Potato Soup with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for added creaminess and tang. A sprinkle of fresh chives or parsley adds a pop of color and freshness. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a swirl of hot sauce for a touch of heat. Crusty bread or grilled cheese sandwiches are perfect accompaniments for dipping and soaking up all the delicious broth.

Looking for variations? Consider adding other vegetables like carrots, celery, or onions for extra depth of flavor. A pinch of red pepper flakes can add a subtle kick. For a vegetarian version, simply omit the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can even add a can of drained and rinsed white beans for added protein and fiber. The possibilities are endless!

I’ve poured my heart into perfecting this recipe, and I’m confident that you’ll love it as much as I do. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or even a cozy night in. The best part is that it’s relatively simple to make, even for beginner cooks. With just a few basic ingredients and a little bit of time, you can create a truly memorable meal.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients, put on your apron, and get ready to make some magic in the kitchen! I’m so excited for you to try this Bacon Cabbage Potato Soup.

I truly hope you enjoy making and eating this soup as much as I do. It’s a recipe that I’ve been making for years, and it always brings a smile to my face. It’s the perfect comfort food for any occasion.

Once you’ve tried it, I’d love to hear about your experience! Did you make any modifications? What did you think of the flavor? What did you serve it with? Share your thoughts and photos in the comments below. Your feedback is invaluable, and it helps me to continue creating and sharing delicious recipes that you’ll love. Happy cooking! I can’t wait to hear all about your culinary adventures with this recipe. Don’t be shy, let me know what you think!