Stuffed pepper

Delicious stuffed bell peppers recipe

Stuffed bell peppers are a classic dish, full of flavor and aroma, combining the rich tastes of meat with the delicate texture of rice. This simple and quick recipe is perfect for a family dinner or to impress guests. In just 60 minutes, you'll have 12 servings of stuffed peppers, ready to be enjoyed!

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 60 minutes
Number of servings: 12

Necessary ingredients:
- 12 peppers (preferably red or green, your choice)
- 4 medium onions
- 1/2 cup rice (preferably long grain)
- 650-700 g minced meat (you can use beef, pork, or a mix)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste (or delikat, as preferred)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2-3 tablespoons oil for sautéing
- 600 ml water or broth for boiling (optional)

Step by step:

1. Preparing the peppers: Start by washing the peppers well. With a sharp knife, cut off the top of each pepper and remove the seeds. If you want a spicier version, you can choose hot peppers or add a pinch of chili powder to the filling.

2. Preparing the filling: Chop the onions finely and sauté them in 2-3 tablespoons of oil in a large pan over medium heat until they become translucent. Add the washed rice and continue to sauté for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly to give it a pleasant aroma.

3. Adding the meat: Turn off the heat and add the minced meat to the pan. Mix well to combine with the onion and rice. Season with salt, pepper, and add the tomato paste or delikat, mixing again until well combined. It is essential to ensure that the filling is well-seasoned, as this will influence the final taste of the dish.

4. Filling the peppers: Use a spoon to fill each pepper with the meat and rice mixture. Make sure the filling is well packed, but leave a little space at the top, as the rice will expand during cooking.

5. Preparing for baking: Place the stuffed peppers in a baking dish. If desired, you can add water or broth to the dish to maintain moisture during baking. This step will help cook the rice evenly and prevent burning.

6. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius and bake the peppers for about 40 minutes or until the meat is well cooked and the peppers become tender. You can check if they are done by inserting a fork into the meat.

7. Serving: Stuffed peppers can be served warm, alongside a fresh salad or a side of yogurt for a pleasant contrast. You can also add fresh herbs on top for a colorful appearance and extra aroma.

Personal suggestion: You can experiment with the filling by adding chopped vegetables (such as carrots or zucchini) or herbs (basil, oregano) to give it a more complex flavor. Additionally, stuffed peppers can also be prepared on the grill for a unique smoky flavor.

This stuffed pepper recipe is not only tasty but also versatile, perfect for any occasion. Feel free to customize them to your taste!