Delight in a comforting bowl of this Irish Colcannon Soup Recipe, a warm and hearty take on the classic Irish mashed potato and cabbage dish. This soup masterfully blends creamy potatoes with tender cabbage, enhanced by savory aromatics and a touch of cream. Perfect for chilly days or when you crave a taste of Ireland, this recipe brings rustic charm and wholesome flavors to your table with ease and joy.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Irish Colcannon Soup Recipe plays an essential role in creating its rich texture and vibrant flavors. From the buttery base to the fresh cabbage, each component adds character that makes this soup so unforgettable.
- 2 tablespoons butter: Adds a luscious richness and depth of flavor that’s the foundation of this soup’s comforting taste.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Balances the butter and prevents burning, while contributing subtle fruity undertones.
- 1 medium onion, chopped: Provides a sweet and savory base when sautéed, awakening your senses.
- 2 garlic cloves, minced: Gives a fragrant punch without overpowering, adding warmth.
- 4 cups green cabbage, thinly sliced: Offers that signature Irish ingredient with a tender texture and mild earthiness.
- 4 cups potatoes, peeled and diced: The heart of the soup, creating its creamy, velvety body.
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth: Enhances the overall flavor and keeps the soup light yet savory.
- 1 cup whole milk or cream: Adds creaminess and a silky finish—cream for indulgence, milk for a lighter touch.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Essential for bringing all the flavors together perfectly.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle hint of spice to balance the richness.
- 2 green onions, sliced: Gives a fresh, crisp bite and a pop of color as a garnish.
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional): For a bright, herbaceous touch that lifts the entire dish.
- Crumbled cooked bacon (optional): Brings a smoky crunch, perfect if you want to add a savory contrast.
How to Make Irish Colcannon Soup Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Onions and Garlic
Start by warming butter and olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once melted, add the chopped onions and cook them until they turn soft and translucent, about 3 to 4 minutes. Then stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for an additional minute to release its fragrant aroma. This step builds a flavorful base that makes the soup so inviting.
Step 2: Wilt the Cabbage
Next, add the thinly sliced green cabbage to the pot. Cook it gently, stirring occasionally, until it softens but still holds a slight crispness, about 5 minutes. This process brings out the cabbage’s natural sweetness and ensures it melds beautifully with the other ingredients.
Step 3: Add Potatoes, Broth, and Seasoning
Stir in the diced potatoes along with salt, pepper, and your choice of broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then lower the heat to a simmer. Let it cook uncovered for 15 to 20 minutes until the potatoes become tender enough to mash easily. This is where the soup really starts to thicken and develop that luscious body.
Step 4: Blend and Finish with Cream
Using an immersion blender, partially blend the soup right in the pot, leaving some chunks for delightful texture. If you don’t have one, blend half the soup in a blender and then stir it back in. After blending, stir in the whole milk or cream and allow the soup to warm through. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed — this creamy finish takes the soup from rustic to irresistibly smooth.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Finally, ladle the soup into bowls and top with sliced green onions, fresh parsley, and crumbled bacon if you like. These garnishes add color, freshness, and a savory crunch that elevate each spoonful.
How to Serve Irish Colcannon Soup Recipe
Garnishes
The garnishes for your Irish Colcannon Soup Recipe truly bring it to life. Sliced green onions add brightness and a slight crunch, which contrasts beautifully with the soup’s creaminess. Parsley provides a fresh, herbal note that cuts through the richness, while the optional bacon brings a smoky, crispy element that makes every bite exciting.
Side Dishes
This soup pairs wonderfully with a crusty slice of artisan bread or classic Irish soda bread. The bread’s chewy texture is perfect for dipping and soaking up every last drop. A light green salad with a citrus vinaigrette or roasted root vegetables also complement the heartiness of the soup, adding layers of freshness and texture to your meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve your Irish Colcannon Soup Recipe in mini bread bowls for an eye-catching presentation, perfect for parties or family dinners. You can also layer the garnishes separately on a platter and let everyone customize their bowls. Another idea is to swirl in a bit of extra cream or a dollop of sour cream for a pretty visual and added creaminess.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Irish Colcannon Soup Recipe keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to let the soup cool completely before storing it to maintain the best texture and flavor. When you’re ready, simply reheat gently on the stovetop.
Freezing
This soup freezes beautifully, making it a great option for meal prepping. Transfer the cooled soup to freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some room for expansion. Frozen, it will stay deliciously fresh for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to preserve its creamy texture.
Reheating
When reheating your Irish Colcannon Soup Recipe, do so gently over low heat on the stovetop, stirring frequently to prevent scorching. If the soup has thickened too much during storage, add a splash of broth or milk to loosen it up. This careful reheating ensures every bowl tastes just as comforting as when freshly made.
FAQs
Can I make this soup vegan?
Absolutely! To make the Irish Colcannon Soup Recipe vegan, simply use vegetable broth and swap the butter for a plant-based alternative. Replace the milk or cream with your favorite plant-based milk, like oat or almond milk. The flavor will still be wonderful and satisfying.
Is this soup gluten-free?
Yes, this soup is naturally gluten-free, provided your broth is gluten-free as well. Always check the labels to ensure no hidden gluten ingredients. It’s a cozy option for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.
Can I use other types of cabbage?
While green cabbage is traditional and offers a mild flavor, you can experiment with Savoy or Napa cabbage for a slightly different texture and taste. Just keep in mind these varieties have a more delicate leaf and might cook faster.
What’s the best potato to use?
Yukon Gold or similar waxy potatoes work best in this soup because they hold their shape and cook evenly without becoming too mushy. Russets can be used but might break down more, resulting in a thicker texture, which some might prefer.
Can I add other vegetables to this soup?
Definitely! Feel free to add diced carrots, leeks, or even a handful of kale to deepen the flavor and add nutritional variety. Just adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure all vegetables are tender and flavorful.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about the Irish Colcannon Soup Recipe — it’s warm, inviting, and packed with flavors that feel like a hug in a bowl. Whether you’re celebrating St. Patrick’s Day or simply craving a satisfying, homemade soup, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it your own comfort classic!
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Irish Colcannon Soup Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Irish Colcannon Soup is a creamy and comforting dish inspired by the traditional Irish mashed potato and cabbage recipe. This hearty soup combines tender potatoes, wilted green cabbage, and savory aromatics, blended to a perfect texture and enriched with milk or cream. Garnished with green onions, parsley, and optional crispy bacon, it’s a warm and satisfying meal perfect for chilly days or Saint Patrick’s Day celebrations.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 cups green cabbage, thinly sliced
- 4 cups potatoes, peeled and diced
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup whole milk or cream
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Garnishes (Optional)
- 2 green onions, sliced
- Chopped parsley
- Crumbled cooked bacon
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot, melt the butter with olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until soft and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute to release its flavor.
- Cook Cabbage: Add the sliced cabbage to the pot and cook, stirring occasionally, until it begins to wilt and soften, about 5 minutes. This step helps mellow the cabbage’s flavor and makes it tender.
- Add Potatoes and Broth: Stir in the diced potatoes, salt, pepper, and pour in the chicken or vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer uncovered for 15–20 minutes, or until the potatoes are very tender and cooked through.
- Blend the Soup: Use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup directly in the pot, leaving some chunks for texture. Alternatively, transfer half of the soup to a blender, puree it, and return it to the pot. This creates a creamy but chunky consistency.
- Finish Soup: Stir in the whole milk or cream and gently heat the soup through without bringing it to a boil. Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed.
- Serve: Ladle the warm soup into bowls and garnish with sliced green onions, chopped parsley, and optionally, crumbled cooked bacon to add flavor and texture.
Notes
- Colcannon soup is a modern twist on the traditional Irish mashed potatoes and cabbage dish.
- For a richer and creamier soup, substitute heavy cream for the milk.
- To make the soup vegetarian, use vegetable broth and omit the bacon garnish.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can be reheated gently on the stovetop.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Irish
