Warm up with a bowl of our traditional Irish Farmhouse Soup recipe, a comforting and nutritious dish perfect for chilly days. This hearty soup combines a medley of root vegetables with a rich, creamy base, creating a meal that is both satisfying and wholesome.
Irish Farmhouse Soup has long been a favourite in rural households across Ireland. Historically, this dish was a practical way to make use of seasonal and leftover vegetables, ensuring nothing went to waste. Potatoes, a staple in Irish cuisine, not only add to the soup's heartiness but also act as a natural thickener, giving the soup its creamy consistency without the need for extra ingredients.
This soup is delightful on its own, but for an authentic Irish experience, serve it with a slice of freshly baked Irish soda bread or brown bread. You might also consider a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chives on top for added colour and flavour. For a touch of indulgence, a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of crispy bacon bits can be added.
Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they will keep well for up to three days. For longer storage, you can freeze the soup in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to three months. When freezing, leave out the cream and add it only after reheating.
To reheat, place the soup in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until it is heated through. If the soup has been frozen, it's best to let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. After reheating, stir in the double cream if using, and heat gently without boiling.
We hope you enjoy this comforting bowl of Irish Farmhouse Soup as much as we do. It's a true taste of Ireland's culinary heritage. We'd love to hear your thoughts—share your experiences in the comments below, and don't forget to subscribe to our newsletter for more delicious recipes and culinary stories.
This traditional Irish Farmhouse Soup recipe is a heartwarming blend of root vegetables and creamy goodness, perfect for chilly days. Combining the earthy flavours of potatoes, carrots, and parsnips with a touch of double cream, this soup is both nourishing and delicious. Ideal for a cosy family meal, it's a taste of Irish heritage that brings comfort to every bowl.
Peel and dice the potatoes, carrots, and parsnip into uniform pieces for even cooking.
Dice the onion and celery. Slice the leek thinly and mince the garlic.
In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter together with the olive oil over medium heat until bubbling.
Add the diced onion, leek, and celery to the pot. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are softened and the onion is translucent.
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Add the diced potatoes, carrots, and parsnip to the pot. Mix thoroughly to combine with the sautéed aromatics.
Pour in the vegetable stock, then add the dried thyme and bay leaf. Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
Increase the heat to bring the soup to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cover and cook for 25-30 minutes, or until the root vegetables are tender.
Carefully remove and discard the bay leaf.
Using an immersion blender, puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, transfer the soup in batches to a blender, being cautious with the hot liquid, and blend until silky.
Pour the blended soup back into the pot.
Stir in the frozen peas and cook for about 5 minutes, until the peas are tender and bright green.
If desired, stir in the double cream, warming the soup gently without allowing it to boil.
Ladle the hot soup into bowls and serve immediately. Accompany with a hearty slice of Irish soda bread or brown bread for a complete and satisfying meal.
Servings 6
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Fiona O'Sullivan is the passionate editor of Great Food Ireland, a popular blog dedicated to celebrating traditional Irish cuisine and culinary heritage. With a rich background in food writing and a deep love for Ireland's gastronomic culture, Fiona brings a wealth of knowledge and enthusiasm to her role. She curates authentic recipes, shares culinary stories, and explores the vibrant food scene across Ireland. Fiona's dedication to promoting Irish food traditions has made Great Food Ireland a beloved resource for food enthusiasts around the world.
