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Holidays & Special Occasions

St. Patrick’s Day Bacon and Cabbage Feast

The Quirky Foodster Team

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ (0)
20 minutes
Prep

Ingredients

  • 1.5 kg (3 lb) bacon joint
  • 2 heads green cabbage, shredded
  • 1 onion, halved
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 10 black peppercorns
  • 50 g (3 1/2 tbsp) butter
  • 2 tbsp chopped parsley
  • 1 batch Colcannon, for serving

Method

  1. Place the bacon joint in a large pot with onion, bay leaves and peppercorns, cover with cold water, and bring to a boil.
  2. Reduce heat and simmer gently for 2 to 2.5 hours until very tender, skimming any foam that rises.
  3. About 10 minutes before the bacon is ready, add the shredded cabbage directly to the pot, or steam separately until just tender.
  4. Melt the butter and toss through the drained cabbage with the chopped parsley.
  5. Slice the bacon thickly and arrange on a large platter with the buttered cabbage.
  6. Serve as a celebratory spread alongside a bowl of colcannon and warm soda bread.

Introduction: A festive, generously portioned version of the everyday bacon and cabbage dinner, this feast is prepared for St.

Cultural Background: A festive, generously portioned version of the everyday bacon and cabbage dinner, this feast is prepared for St. Patrick's Day gatherings, often accompanied by colcannon and soda bread as a full celebratory spread.

Tips: Cooking for a crowd works well with this dish, as the bacon can simmer gently for hours without needing much attention.

Variations: Some households add whole baby carrots and potatoes to the pot to cook alongside the bacon for a complete one-pot feast. Not authentically vegetarian; bacon is central to the dish.

Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Reheating: Reheat gently in a covered pan over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed.

Nutrition: Per serving (approx.): 480 kcal, 26g fat, 18g carbohydrate, 42g protein.

FAQs:

Q: Can I prepare this feast ahead of the day?

A: The bacon can be cooked a day ahead and gently reheated, though the cabbage is best cooked fresh.

Q: What is traditionally served alongside this feast?

A: Colcannon and warm soda bread are the classic accompaniments.

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