Discover the heartwarming comfort of Colcannon Soup, a delightful twist on the traditional Irish favorite that combines the rich flavors of potatoes, cabbage, and crispy bacon into a creamy, soul-satisfying bowl of goodness. Perfect for chilly evenings or a cozy family dinner, this soup is not only easy to make but also bursting with flavor that will have your taste buds dancing with joy. Join us on a culinary journey to Ireland and learn how to create this irresistible dish that will warm your heart and home. You won't want to miss out on this recipe—let's dive in!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Irish
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 potatoes, peeled and diced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups chopped cabbage
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions
- In a large heavy-bottomed pot, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crisp and golden brown, rendering out the fat and creating a flavorful base for the soup.
- Remove the crispy bacon pieces with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the bacon fat in the pot for cooking the vegetables.
- Add the chopped onions to the bacon fat and sauté until they become translucent and soft, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, being careful not to burn the garlic, which can create a bitter taste.
- Add the diced potatoes to the pot and stir to coat them in the bacon fat and onion mixture, allowing them to start developing flavor.
- Pour in the chicken broth, ensuring that the potatoes are fully submerged, and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
- Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer the potatoes until they are tender and can be easily pierced with a fork, approximately 10-12 minutes.
- Add the chopped cabbage to the pot and continue cooking for an additional 5-7 minutes until the cabbage is tender but still retains a slight crunch.
- Use a potato masher or the back of a wooden spoon to partially mash some of the potatoes, creating a thicker, more rustic soup texture.
- Stir in the heavy cream, which will add richness and a luxurious smoothness to the soup.
- Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting the seasoning as needed.
- Return the crispy bacon pieces to the soup, reserving some for garnish.
- Ladle the hot soup into serving bowls and garnish with the remaining crispy bacon bits and chopped green onions.
- Serve immediately while hot, preferably with a slice of crusty Irish soda bread on the side.
Tips
- Choose the Right Potatoes: For the best texture, use starchy potatoes like Russets or Yukon Golds, as they will break down beautifully and create a creamy consistency in the soup.
- Don't Rush the Bacon: Allow the bacon to cook slowly until it's perfectly crispy. This not only enhances the flavor but also ensures you get the maximum amount of bacon fat to sauté your vegetables.
- Sautéing Technique: When cooking the onions, make sure they are soft and translucent before adding the garlic. This step is crucial for building a deep flavor base for your soup.
- Adjust Creaminess: If you prefer a lighter soup, you can reduce the amount of heavy cream or substitute it with half-and-half or whole milk. Alternatively, for an extra indulgent touch, add more cream for a richer flavor.
- Garnish Generously: Don’t skimp on the garnishes! The crispy bacon bits and fresh green onions not only add visual appeal but also enhance the flavor profile of the soup.
- Serve with Bread: Pair your Colcannon Soup with a slice of crusty Irish soda bread for a complete meal that will keep you warm and satisfied.
- Leftovers Love: This soup tastes even better the next day! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stove for a quick and delicious meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 55mg
