Tired of bland breakfasts? Craving a healthy and flavorful start to your day, or perhaps a refreshing midday pick-me-up? Look no further! This spicy tomato juice recipe is the perfect solution. It's incredibly easy to make, bursting with fresh tomato flavor, and offers a delightful kick of spice that will awaken your senses. This recipe is a fantastic addition to your collection of easy recipes and healthy meals, perfect for quick dinner ideas or a simple yet delicious homemade cooking project. Get ready to experience the best recipes, elevated with a spicy twist!
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds ripe tomatoes, roughly chopped (about 4-5 medium)
- 1 small onion, roughly chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-2 jalapeños, seeded and minced (adjust to your spice preference)
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 cup vegetable or chicken broth (optional, for thinner juice)
Instructions:
-
Prepare the vegetables: Wash and chop the tomatoes, onion, and jalapeños. Mince the garlic and chop the cilantro.
-
Sauté the aromatics: Heat a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, until softened. Stir in the garlic and jalapeños, and cook for another minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
-
Simmer the tomatoes: Add the chopped tomatoes, cumin, coriander, and cayenne pepper (if using) to the pot. Stir well to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the tomatoes have softened and broken down.
-
Blend the juice: Carefully transfer the tomato mixture to a blender (or use an immersion blender). Add the lime juice and blend until smooth. If you prefer a thinner juice, add the broth a little at a time until you reach your desired consistency.
-
Season and serve: Pour the spicy tomato juice back into the pot and season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir in the fresh cilantro. Heat through gently, then serve warm or chilled.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- For a smoother juice, strain the blended mixture through a fine-mesh sieve before serving.
- Roasting the tomatoes before blending will deepen their flavor significantly. Simply toss them with a little olive oil and roast at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes.
- Adjust the amount of jalapeños to control the spice level. If you're sensitive to heat, start with just one jalapeño and add more to taste.
- Add a pinch of sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes, if needed.
Variations:
- Virgin Mary: Add a splash of Worcestershire sauce and a celery stalk for a savory twist.
- Spicy Tomato Gazpacho: Chill the juice completely and serve it cold as a refreshing gazpacho.
- Spicy Bloody Mary: For a boozy brunch, add your favorite vodka.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 80-100
- Protein: 2-3 grams
- Fat: 1-2 grams
- Carbohydrates: 15-20 grams
- Fiber: 2-3 grams
This spicy tomato juice recipe is a versatile and healthy addition to your culinary repertoire. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to become a quick favorite, offering a delicious and easy way to enjoy the vibrant flavors of fresh tomatoes with a spicy kick. Enjoy!