Kasha Vegetable Soup a la Russe

In a large pot, add chicken broth, canned tomatoes, celery, onions, carrots, cabbage, garlic, black pepper, and bay leaves. Place on high heat and cover. When mixture comes to a boil, reduce heat to low and simmer for 30–40 minutes until vegetables are tender. Add green peas, cover and cook an additional 10 minutes. Add kasha, cover and cook an additional 5 minutes. Uncover and stir, checking to make sure adequate moisture is in pot. Add water, if necessary, to bring total volume of soup to 8 cups. Cover pot and cook an additional 5 minutes. Remove bay leaves and serve immediately.