Stuffed peppers

Delicious stuffed peppers recipe: A dish full of flavor and tradition

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 90 minutes
Total: 1 hour and 50 minutes
Servings: 8

Stuffed peppers are a dish that harmoniously combines vegetables and meat, conveying a culinary tradition rich in history and flavor. This simple and tasty recipe is perfect for family meals or special occasions, bringing a touch of warmth to every plate.

Ingredients:
- 600 g minced pork and beef
- 8 bell peppers (choose well-ripened ones with smooth, shiny skin)
- 4 tablespoons of rice (preferably long grain for better texture)
- 1 large onion (finely chopped)
- 1 small carrot (grated)
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 bunch of parsley and dill, finely chopped
- 300 ml tomato puree (or tomato juice for a sweeter taste)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Oil for frying (olive oil is an excellent choice)

Recipe preparation:

Step 1: Preparing the filling
Start by heating a large pan over medium heat. Add 2-3 tablespoons of oil and add the finely chopped onion. Sauté the onion for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent.

Add the grated carrot and continue to sauté for another 2-3 minutes. This will add a natural sweetness to the filling. Once the vegetables are ready, add the rice and mix well. Let it sauté lightly for 1 minute.

Step 2: Combining the ingredients
Remove the pan from the heat and add the vegetable mixture to the minced meat in a large bowl. Season with salt, pepper, and chopped herbs. Mix all the ingredients well with your hands or a spatula, ensuring the rice is evenly distributed.

Step 3: Preparing the peppers
Wash the peppers under a stream of cold water, then cut the tops off each pepper and remove the seeds with a spoon. This is an essential step, as the peppers need to be perfectly cleaned to allow the filling to settle nicely.

Step 4: Filling the peppers
Using a spoon or spatula, fill each pepper with the meat and rice mixture. Do not overfill, as the rice will expand during cooking. Place the stuffed peppers in a large pot, standing upright.

Step 5: Cooking the peppers
Over the stuffed peppers, add the tomato puree and enough water to cover them. Arrange the bay leaves among the peppers for added flavor.

Cut a few slices of tomato and place them on top of each pepper for a colorful appearance and fresh aroma. Cover the pot with a lid and let it simmer on low heat for 90 minutes. This cooking time will allow the flavors to meld and the rice to cook perfectly.

Step 6: Serving
Once the peppers are ready, serve them warm, with a spoonful of sour cream on top. This will add a creamy touch and balance the flavors. You can accompany the dish with a summer salad or a side of plain rice.

Helpful tips:
- Use peppers of different colors for a more attractive appearance.
- You can add spices like paprika or cumin to the meat mixture for an even more intense flavor.
- If you want a vegetarian version, replace the meat with chopped mushrooms or quinoa.

Nutritional benefits:
This recipe is rich in protein due to the meat and includes vegetables full of vitamins. The rice adds complex carbohydrates, providing long-lasting energy. Additionally, the herbs offer an extra boost of antioxidants.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use other types of meat?
Of course! You can experiment with chicken, turkey, or even a combination of ground meat and vegetables.

2. How can I store stuffed peppers?
They can be stored in the refrigerator in airtight containers for 3-4 days. They can also be frozen, but it is recommended to consume them fresh to preserve the texture.

3. What drinks pair best with stuffed peppers?
A dry white wine or a young red wine are excellent choices. Additionally, a cold mint tea can add a refreshing touch.

Personal note:
When I cook stuffed peppers, I remember family meals from my childhood, when we would all gather around the table and enjoy dishes cooked with love. Try to add a bit of your love to each recipe, and the result will surely please everyone!

If you've made it this far, you are already one step closer to achieving the perfect stuffed pepper recipe. Don't hesitate to experiment with ingredients and spices, and transform this recipe into your personal masterpiece!