irish cabbage recipe
The Best irish cabbage recipe
It’s the kind of dish that’s easy to double or freeze, so it’s always there when life gets busy. I’ll pull it out for holiday gatherings, potlucks, or even just a lazy Sunday when we’re all together. The potatoes and cabbage soak up the broth, and the meat—usually chicken or pork—falls apart in your mouth. It’s hearty enough for a crowd but simple enough to make when you’re short on time. Plus, it’s a great way to use up extra cabbage or potatoes that might otherwise go to waste. My kids used to call it “the cozy bowl,” and honestly? It’s the kind of dish that makes you feel like you’re doing something good for your body and your family all at once.
Classic Irish Cabbage Soup
A hearty, comforting soup made with tender cabbage, savory broth, and a touch of spice. Perfect for cold days or a cozy family meal.
🥘Ingredients
- 1 large head green cabbage, quartered
- 2 medium potatoes, cubed
- 1 onion, sliced
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp flour
👨🍳Directions
-
1
In a large pot, combine the cabbage quarters, potatoes, onion, carrots, and garlic. Pour in the broth, add bay leaf, thyme, and paprika. Bring to a boil. -
2
Once boiling, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 25–30 minutes until cabbage and potatoes are tender. -
3
Remove the bay leaf and discard. Stir in the butter and flour to create a light roux. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant. -
4
Scoop out a ladle of soup, stir in the shredded cheese until melted. Return the soup to the pot and simmer for another 5 minutes. -
5
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot with crusty bread.
🔧Equipment
- Large pot
- Colander
- Wooden spoon
- Mixing bowl
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How Classic Irish Cabbage Soup Works
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Irish Cabbage Soup
How long does it take to prepare Irish cabbage for this recipe?
This dish typically takes about 45 minutes to prepare, including the cooking time. The cabbage itself needs around 20–25 minutes of simmering to soften, while the rest of the ingredients take roughly 15 minutes to chop and prep.
Can I substitute regular cabbage for Irish (savoy) cabbage in this recipe?
You can try it, but the texture will differ. Savoy cabbage has a slightly more tender, slightly bitter flavor and a distinct crinkled leaf structure. Regular green cabbage will soften but may not hold the same rich, slightly tangy depth.
What if I don’t have a Dutch oven for this recipe?
A deep, heavy pot with a lid works just as well. Just ensure it has enough space for the cabbage to expand while cooking. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, and cook on medium-low heat to avoid burning.
How should I store leftovers to keep them fresh?
Cool completely before storing in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in a pot over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to restore moisture if needed.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! The dish tastes even better the next day as flavors meld. Store components separately—sautéed onions, spices, and cabbage—then assemble and reheat before serving. The cabbage may need a few extra minutes to soften upon reheating.
