Stuffed peppers

Delicious stuffed peppers recipe with vegetables and sausages

The culinary journey we will embark on together today will take us to a classic dish, yet full of flavor and color: stuffed peppers with vegetables and sausages. This simple and delicious recipe is perfect for family lunches or dinners with friends. Stuffed peppers are a symbol of joy, bringing not only varied tastes to our table but also pleasant childhood memories.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 40-50 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Number of servings: 6

Ingredients:

- 5 large onions (preferably red onion for a sweet note)
- 2 carrots
- 1 parsley root
- A generous handful of fresh green parsley
- 2 cups of rice
- Approximately 300 ml of oil (for sautéing)
- 6 peppers (preferably bell peppers of various colors for an attractive appearance)
- Spices: salt, pepper, and any other preferred herbs (basil, thyme)
- 500 g of raw sausages (pork or beef sausages, depending on preferences)

Ingredient details:

- Onion: This will provide a base flavor for the dish. Red onion is sweeter and caramelizes better, but you can also use white onion.
- Carrots and parsley root: These vegetables bring a sweet taste and a special aroma, and parsley root is often underestimated in the kitchen.
- Rice: Use long or medium-grain rice. This will absorb the flavors from the vegetable and sausage mixture.
- Sausages: Choose high-quality sausages, as they will significantly influence the final taste of the dish. Smoked sausages can add a distinctive note.

Step by step:

1. Preparing the vegetables: Start by peeling the onion, carrots, and parsley root. Using a food processor, finely chop these vegetables. This method not only saves time but will also give you a uniform mixture that will provide the desired texture for the filling.

2. Sautéing the vegetables: In a large skillet, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the chopped vegetables and sauté for 10-15 minutes, stirring constantly, until they become soft and slightly golden. This step is essential to intensify the flavors.

3. Adding the meat: After the vegetables have sautéed, add the sausages cut into small pieces, which will also be chopped in the processor. Continue mixing the mixture for about 5-7 minutes, until the sausages release their flavors and become slightly browned.

4. Adding the rice: Add the rice to the skillet and mix well to combine it with the other ingredients. Let everything simmer on low heat for another 5 minutes, stirring frequently. This will allow the rice to absorb the flavors from the vegetables and sausages.

5. Seasoning: Now is the time to season the mixture with salt, pepper, and your preferred herbs. Taste the mixture and adjust the seasonings to your liking.

6. Preparing the peppers: While the mixture cools slightly, wash the peppers well. Cut off the tops, remove the seeds and internal membranes. The peppers should be large enough to fill, but not so large that they become difficult to cook evenly.

7. Filling the peppers: Use a spoon to fill each pepper with the mixture of vegetables, sausages, and rice. Make sure the filling is well packed but not too tight, to allow the rice to expand during cooking.

8. Baking: Place the stuffed peppers in a deep pot. Add water halfway up the peppers. Cover the pot and place it in the preheated oven at 180°C (350°F). Let them bake for 40-50 minutes, or until the peppers become tender.

9. Serving: Once the peppers are ready, take them out of the oven and let them cool slightly. Serve them warm, alongside a spoonful of sour cream and, why not, with a steaming portion of polenta. This combination will add a special flavor and turn the meal into a true feast.

Personal tip: If you like a spicier taste, add a few slices of hot pepper to the filling mixture. You can also experiment with different types of meat, such as ground beef or chicken, to vary the recipe.

Nutritional benefits: These stuffed peppers are not only delicious but also nutritious. Fresh vegetables provide a high intake of vitamins and minerals, while the rice offers complex carbohydrates, essential for energy. Sausages add protein, but it is important to choose low-fat options to keep the dish healthier.

Frequently asked questions:

1. *Can I use bell peppers instead of sweet peppers?*
Yes, but bell peppers have a crunchier texture, so the cooking time may need to be adjusted.

2. *How can I store stuffed peppers to consume later?*
You can freeze the stuffed peppers before baking them. After filling them, place them in freezer containers. Cook them directly from the freezer, adding extra baking time.

3. *What drinks pair well with stuffed peppers?*
A light beer or a dry white wine are excellent alongside stuffed peppers, as they balance the rich flavors of the dish.

This recipe for stuffed peppers with vegetables and sausages will not only delight your taste buds but will also become a favorite recipe on your table. Wishing you happy cooking and much joy in the kitchen!