Vegetable Soup Recipe Ireland: Easy, Fresh, and Delicious

There’s something truly comforting about a warm bowl of vegetable soup, especially when it’s inspired by the lush, green landscapes of Ireland. This traditional Irish vegetable soup recipe is a wholesome, hearty dish that brings together fresh, seasonal vegetables with simple herbs and a rich vegetable broth.

Perfect for chilly days or when you crave a nourishing meal that’s both light and satisfying, this soup embodies the spirit of Irish home cooking.

Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this recipe is straightforward, versatile, and packed with flavor. It’s an excellent way to enjoy a rainbow of vegetables in every spoonful, offering a taste of Ireland’s countryside in your own kitchen.

Plus, it’s naturally vegetarian and can easily be adapted to suit vegan diets or personal preferences.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Irish vegetable soup recipe is a true crowd-pleaser for many reasons. First, it’s incredibly nutritious, loaded with fresh vegetables like carrots, potatoes, leeks, and cabbage, which offer vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants.

Second, it’s easy to prepare, requiring just one pot and minimal ingredients that you might already have at home.

The soup is also wonderfully versatile; you can tweak the vegetables based on what’s in season or add your favorite herbs to make it your own. It’s perfect for meal prep as it stores well and even tastes better the next day.

Lastly, it’s a great introduction to Irish cuisine and pairs beautifully with traditional soda bread for a complete Irish-inspired meal.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 leeks, white and light green parts sliced
• 3 medium carrots, diced
• 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced (preferably floury potatoes)
• 1/2 small green cabbage, shredded
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 6 cups vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Optional: 1 bay leaf for extra flavor

Equipment

• Large soup pot or Dutch oven
• Cutting board
• Sharp kitchen knife
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Ladle for serving
• Soup bowls or mugs

Instructions

1. Prepare the vegetables: Wash, peel, and chop all the vegetables into bite-sized pieces. Keep the onion, leeks, carrots, potatoes, cabbage, celery, and garlic ready.
2. Heat the olive oil: Place the soup pot over medium heat and add the olive oil. Once hot, add the chopped onion and sliced leeks. Sauté for about 5 minutes until softened and fragrant.
3. Add carrots, celery, and garlic: Stir in the diced carrots, celery, and minced garlic. Cook for another 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
4. Add potatoes, cabbage, and herbs: Toss in the potatoes, shredded cabbage, dried thyme, dried parsley, and optional bay leaf. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
5. Pour in vegetable broth: Carefully add the vegetable broth to the pot, ensuring all the vegetables are submerged. Increase heat to bring the soup to a boil.
6. Simmer the soup: Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer gently for about 30-40 minutes. The vegetables should be tender but not mushy.
7. Season to taste: Remove the bay leaf if used. Add salt and freshly ground black pepper according to your preference. Stir well.
8. Serve hot: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve immediately with Irish soda bread or your favorite crusty bread.

Tips & Variations

“For extra depth of flavor, roast your vegetables briefly before adding them to the pot, or add a splash of Guinness for a true Irish twist!”

• Make it vegan: This recipe is naturally vegan, but always check your vegetable broth to ensure it’s free from animal products.
• Add beans or lentils: Boost protein by stirring in a cup of cooked white beans or red lentils during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
• Use seasonal greens: Swap cabbage for kale or spinach depending on what’s fresh and available.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of homemade chilli powder for a subtle kick.
• Make it creamy: Blend half the soup and stir it back in for a creamier texture without dairy.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This vegetable soup is perfect as a standalone light meal or paired with other comforting Irish dishes. Try serving it alongside warm Best Vegetarian Recipes No Dairy for Delicious Meals such as homemade soda bread or a fresh garden salad.

For a heartier experience, pair it with a side of Amazing Vegan Pasta Recipes for Easy Delicious Meals or enjoy it before a main course like Bamia Recipe Palestinian Vegetarian Style Made Easy.

Conclusion

This traditional Irish vegetable soup recipe is a testament to the power of simple, fresh ingredients combined with care and tradition. It’s a versatile, nourishing dish that welcomes creativity and seasonal adjustments, making it perfect for year-round enjoyment.

Whether you’re warming up on a damp Irish evening or just looking for a wholesome, plant-based meal, this soup offers a perfect balance of comfort and health.

Give it a try, and you might find yourself reaching for this recipe again and again, savoring the authentic flavors of Ireland in every bowl. For more delicious vegetarian recipes, check out our collection of A to Z Vegetarian Recipes for Every Meal and Occasion and explore the wonderful world of plant-based cooking.

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