Stuffed peppers

Stuffed Peppers Recipe with Meat and Rice

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 10 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6

At the heart of traditional cuisine, stuffed peppers are a cherished delicacy, symbolizing comfort and the warmth of home. This classic recipe, adapted to your preferences and available ingredients, will bring you joy and nostalgia every time you prepare it. Even if you are far from the intimate flavors of Romania, you will find that you can create a delicious dish with the ingredients you have on hand.

Ingredients:

- 800 grams minced meat (a combination of pork and beef)
- 1 large onion (or 2 small ones)
- 400 grams tomato paste
- 1 large cup of rice (approximately 200 grams)
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 8 peppers (choose a variety that seems suitable, preferably with thick walls)
- 3 tablespoons flour
- Oil for frying (approximately 2-3 tablespoons)

Preparation:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by washing the rice under a stream of cold water to remove excess starch. This step will help achieve a less sticky texture. Let it drain well.

2. Preparing the onion: In a skillet, add a little oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Finally, add a teaspoon of sweet paprika, which will give a pleasant flavor to the mixture.

3. Filling mixture: In a large bowl, combine the minced meat with the sautéed onion, drained rice, salt, pepper, and dried thyme. Mix all the ingredients well until you achieve a homogeneous mixture. It is important to ensure that all flavors are well blended.

4. Preparing the peppers: Wash the peppers under a stream of cold water and carefully remove the seeds and stems. If the peppers are too small, you can cut them vertically to fill them more easily.

5. Filling the peppers: Fill each pepper with the meat and rice mixture, being careful not to fill them completely, as the rice will expand during cooking. Place the stuffed peppers in a large pot, side by side.

6. Preparing the sauce: In a bowl, mix half of the tomato paste with water and a teaspoon of salt. Pour the sauce over the peppers in the pot, ensuring they are well covered. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the flame and let simmer on low heat for about 30 minutes.

7. Finalizing the dish: After the peppers have cooked, mix the remaining tomato paste with the flour and 2 tablespoons of water. Add this mixture over the peppers in the pot to thicken the sauce. Let it simmer for another 5 minutes and then remove from heat.

Serving suggestions: Stuffed peppers can be served with sour cream or yogurt, and a fresh green salad alongside will perfectly complement this dish. You can also add a few slices of toasted bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Possible variations: You can experiment with different fillings, replacing the meat with mushrooms for a vegetarian option. You can also add olives or feta cheese to the filling for a more intense flavor.

Nutritional benefits: These stuffed peppers are an excellent source of protein due to the meat, while the rice provides complex carbohydrates. Peppers are rich in vitamins A, C, and K, playing an important role in maintaining a healthy immune system.

Calories: A serving of stuffed peppers contains approximately 350-400 calories, depending on the amount of meat and rice used. It is a hearty dish, ideal for a lunch or dinner.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use another type of meat? Yes, you can use chicken or turkey, or even a vegan option with textured soy or vegetables.

2. What kind of rice should I use? Long-grain rice or basmati rice are excellent options, but you can also use sushi rice if you prefer a stickier texture.

3. How can I make the peppers spicier? If you like spicy dishes, you can add a little chopped hot pepper to the filling or use hot peppers for stuffing.

I hope this stuffed pepper recipe brings you joy in the kitchen and helps satisfy your craving for traditional dishes. Cooking is an art, and each recipe has its own story. With every bite, you will connect to traditions and beautiful moments spent with loved ones. Enjoy your meal!