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### Step-by-Step Instructions
#### 2. Sauté the Vegetables
1. In the same pot with the rendered bacon fat, add the **diced onion** and sauté over medium heat for **3-4 minutes** until softened.
2. Add the **minced garlic** and sauté for an additional **1 minute**, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
#### 3. Build the Soup
1. Add the **chicken broth** to the pot, scraping the bottom of the pot to release any browned bits from the bacon and vegetables.
2. Stir in the **diced potatoes**, **shredded cabbage**, **dried thyme**, **salt**, and **black pepper**. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium-high heat.
3. Reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer, uncovered, for **20-25 minutes**, or until the potatoes are tender.
#### 4. Add the Cream
1. Once the potatoes are fully cooked, stir in the **heavy cream** (if using) to add richness and a creamy texture to the soup. Continue to cook for an additional **5 minutes** to heat through.
#### 5. Combine Bacon and Finish
1. Return the **crumbled bacon** to the pot, mixing it into the soup for added flavor and texture.
2. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more **salt** and **pepper** if necessary.
#### 6. Serve and Garnish
1. Ladle the soup into bowls, and garnish with **chopped fresh parsley** for a touch of color.
2. Serve hot with a side of **crusty bread** or **Irish soda bread** for dipping.
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### Serving Suggestions
– **With Crusty Bread**: A slice of freshly baked bread is perfect for dipping into the rich, creamy broth.
– **As a Main Course**: This soup is filling enough to be served as a stand-alone meal.
– **With a Green Salad**: Pairing the soup with a simple green salad adds a refreshing balance to the meal.
### Tips for Success
1. **Use Quality Bacon**: For the best flavor, opt for **Irish bacon** if you can find it, as it has a distinct, smoky flavor. Otherwise, thick-cut bacon will work just as well.
2. **Adjust the Texture**: If you prefer a creamier texture, you can mash a portion of the potatoes before adding the cream to create a thicker base.
3. **Cabbage Options**: For a more delicate flavor, use savoy cabbage, which is a bit milder than regular cabbage.
4. **Make Ahead**: This soup can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to **3 days**. The flavors will continue to develop as it sits.
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### Why This Recipe Works
The combination of **bacon**, **cabbage**, and **potatoes** makes this soup a satisfying and flavorful dish. The smokiness of the bacon infuses the broth, while the tender cabbage and hearty potatoes provide a comforting and filling base. The optional heavy cream creates a velvety smooth texture, but the soup is just as delicious without it, making this recipe versatile for all preferences.
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### Conclusion
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