Stuffed peppers

Delicious Stuffed Peppers Recipe

Stuffed peppers represent a culinary tradition appreciated in many cultures, being a versatile dish full of flavor. This recipe combines fresh vegetables with a meaty filling, offering a nutritious and tasty meal. Whether you prepare them for a special occasion or simply for a family dinner, stuffed peppers are always an inspired choice.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 70 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6

Ingredients:
- 5-6 bell peppers (preferably in different colors for an attractive appearance)
- 1-2 zucchinis
- 2 tomatoes
- 2-3 cans of mushrooms (approximately 400 g)
- 6 onions (3 for the filling and 3 for the sauce)
- 1 liter of tomato juice (or tomato paste, as preferred)
- 150 g of rice (preferably long-grain)
- 1-2 carrots
- Oil (for frying)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- 600-700 g of ground meat (a mix of pork and beef is ideal)

Preparation steps:

Step 1: Preparing the vegetables
Start by washing the bell peppers, zucchinis, and tomatoes well. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove the stems and seeds. This step is essential to create generous space for the filling. For the zucchinis, cut them in half lengthwise, and you can use the tomatoes whole, but I recommend scooping out the insides to make room for the filling.

Step 2: Preparing the filling
In a deep skillet, finely chop the 3 onions and carrots. You can use a grater to speed up the process. Heat a little oil in the skillet and add the onion and carrot, sautéing them over medium heat until they become translucent. Adding the finely chopped mushrooms will enhance the flavor of the filling; add them to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 3: Combining the ingredients
Once the mushrooms are cooked, add the ground meat to the skillet and continue cooking, stirring, until it is lightly browned. Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear, then add it to the meat and vegetable mixture. Don't forget to season with salt and pepper to taste. Pour in about 200 ml of tomato juice and mix well. Let everything simmer for another 10 minutes for the rice to absorb the flavors.

Step 4: Filling the vegetables
Now that the filling is ready, take each pepper, zucchini, and tomato and generously fill them with the resulting mixture. Do not overfill them, as the rice will expand during cooking. Place the stuffed vegetables in a deep pot.

Step 5: Preparing the sauce
Grate the remaining 3 onions and add them over the stuffed peppers. Pour the remaining tomato juice into the pot, season with salt and pepper, and let it simmer over low heat for 5-10 minutes.

Step 6: Baking
Put the pot in the preheated oven at 180 degrees Celsius. Let the peppers bake for about 40 minutes. Check occasionally if the sauce reduces too much; you can add a little water if necessary.

Step 7: Serving
Once the peppers are ready, take them out of the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. They can be served warm, accompanied by a spoonful of sour cream, which will add creaminess and flavor.

Practical tips:
- If you want a heartier version, you can add some olives or cheese to the filling.
- For a spicy note, add some chili flakes to the filling.
- This dish can be stored in the refrigerator and reheated, offering an even more intense flavor.

Nutritional benefits:
Peppers are an excellent source of vitamins A and C, being allies in strengthening the immune system. Ground meat provides essential proteins, while rice complements the dish with healthy carbohydrates. This recipe is nutritionally balanced, making it suitable for a family meal.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use other types of meat? Yes, you can use chicken or turkey for a lighter version.
2. Can stuffed peppers be prepared in advance? Absolutely! You can prepare the peppers a day ahead and keep them in the refrigerator. Cooking will be quicker the next day.
3. What side dish goes well with stuffed peppers? A fresh green salad or mashed potatoes are ideal options.

Serving suggestions:
For a complete lunch, serve stuffed peppers with a fresh tomato and cucumber salad, drizzled with lemon juice. A cold drink, such as lemonade or mint tea, will perfectly complement the meal.

So, enjoy this stuffed pepper recipe, which will not only delight your taste buds but also bring a touch of warmth and tradition to your home. Bon appétit!