Simple Tomato Cabbage
A hearty, comforting soup combining tender cabbage, tomato juice, and barley. Perfect for warming up on cold days, it offers a savory, wholesome flavor profile suitable for all.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cover chopped cabbage with water and bring to a boil.
- Drain the water from the cabbage.
- Add tomato juice and barley to the boiled cabbage.
- Bring to a boil again, then reduce heat and simmer until barley is soft, approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For a heartier dish, consider adding chopped carrots or celery for added flavor and nutrition. If you don't have barley, quinoa or brown rice can be used as substitutes. Adjust the amount of tomato juice based on your preference for a thicker or thinner consistency. Adding herbs like thyme or bay leaves can enhance the flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish warm as a comforting main course or a hearty side. It pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad drizzled with Celery Seed Dressing (Low Calorie) for a well-rounded meal. You can also serve it alongside crusty bread or a light protein like grilled chicken or fish.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, add a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out and warm it on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. This dish also freezes well for up to 3 months; just thaw and reheat thoroughly before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Simple Tomato Cabbage contains roughly 15 calories, with 1g protein, 3g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (34% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe in advance?
Yes, this dish can be made ahead of time and actually tastes better the next day as the flavors meld. Simply prepare it, let it cool, and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat when ready to serve.
Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
Absolutely! This Simple Tomato Cabbage recipe is completely plant-based, making it a perfect choice for vegan recipes. Just ensure that the tomato juice you use is free from any animal-derived additives.
What can I add for extra flavor?
Consider adding spices like cumin or smoked paprika for a deeper flavor. Fresh herbs like parsley or basil can also brighten the dish just before serving. For a spicier kick, a pinch of red pepper flakes works wonders.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).