Appetizer with bell pepper and sheep cheese

Appetizer with bell peppers and burduf cheese

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Rest time: 12 hours (in the fridge)
Total time: 12 hours and 30 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6

Who doesn't love a colorful appetizer, full of flavors, that opens the appetite? Bell peppers stuffed with burduf cheese are undoubtedly a delight that enchants the senses and brings a touch of joy to any event's table. This simple and quick recipe is perfect for gatherings with friends, parties, or even to be enjoyed as a snack between meals.

The history of this dish is fascinating, inspired by culinary traditions passed down through generations. The bell peppers, with their crunchy texture and vibrant color, become perfect vessels for savory fillings, and burduf cheese is the star of this appetizer, offering an intense and creamy taste.

Necessary ingredients:

- 2-3 bell peppers (choose red, yellow, or green according to preference)
- 300-400 g burduf cheese (preferably of high quality for better taste)
- 150 g sour cream (use full-fat sour cream for a creamier texture)
- 3-4 green onions (fresh and crunchy)
- A small bunch of dill (finely chopped)
- Freshly ground pepper, to taste
- Sweet paprika, for an extra splash of color and flavor

Step by step: Preparing the appetizer

1. Preparing the peppers: Start by washing the bell peppers well under cold running water. Make sure to remove any impurities. Then, with a sharp knife, carefully cut off the top of each pepper, forming a "lid." Remove the seeds and inner veins using a spoon or knife, being careful not to damage the walls of the peppers. Rinse them again and let them dry on a clean towel.

2. Preparing the filling: In a medium bowl, add the burduf cheese and mash it with a fork until it becomes a smooth paste. Now, add the sour cream and mix well. Then, finely chop the green onion and dill and incorporate them into the mixture. Season with freshly ground pepper and, if desired, a little sweet paprika to enhance the flavors. Mix everything until you obtain a creamy and well-homogenized filling.

3. Stuffing the peppers: Using a spoon or a pastry bag, fill each pepper with the cheese mixture. Make sure the filling is well distributed and reaches the top of the peppers. Then, put the lid back on each pepper, pressing gently.

4. Storing in the fridge: Place each stuffed pepper in a resealable plastic bag or an airtight container. Leave them in the fridge for at least 12 hours. This step is essential as it allows the flavors to blend and become even more delicious.

5. Serving the appetizer: The next day, take the peppers out of the fridge and cut them into slices about 2 cm thick. Arrange the slices on a nice platter and, for a more pleasant appearance, you can sprinkle a little fresh dill on top. This appetizer is served cold and is perfect to be enjoyed alongside a glass of white wine or a refreshing drink.

Tips and variations

- Burduf cheese: If you can't find burduf cheese, you can use feta or ricotta cheese, but the taste will be different. Burduf cheese adds a salty and creamy note, perfect for this appetizer.
- Various flavors: You can experiment with different herbs, such as basil or oregano, to give the recipe a twist.
- Adding vegetables: In the mixture, you can add finely chopped olives, hot peppers, or even some crushed nuts for a more complex flavor.

Nutritional information

These stuffed peppers with burduf cheese are an excellent source of protein and calcium, thanks to the cheese and sour cream. On average, a serving of 3 stuffed peppers contains about 250-300 calories, depending on the amount of cheese used. This appetizer is filling yet light, making it a perfect choice for those who want to enjoy an authentic taste without feeling too heavy.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use other types of cheese?
Of course! You can replace burduf cheese with feta or even a less salty cottage cheese, but the taste will differ.

2. What other ingredients can I add to the filling?
You can experiment with various ingredients, such as sun-dried tomatoes, roasted peppers, or even a little garlic for an extra flavor boost.

3. How can I tell if the peppers are fresh?
Choose peppers with a firm texture, free of spots or signs of damage. The color should be vibrant, and the stem should be green and healthy.

4. Can I prepare the appetizer a day in advance?
Absolutely! In fact, it is recommended to prepare it a day in advance to allow the flavors to develop.

This recipe for appetizer with bell peppers and burduf cheese is not only simple but also extremely versatile, with the potential to be customized according to your culinary preferences. Enjoy every bite and cherish the company of your loved ones!