Stuffed Peppers (slow cooker)

Stuffed Peppers in a Slow Cooker – a Recipe that Delights the Senses

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 3-4 hours
Total time: 3-4 hours and 20 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6

Welcome to the world of culinary delights, where today we aim to prepare a comforting and flavorful recipe: stuffed peppers in a slow cooker. This recipe is not only simple but also extremely versatile. Stuffed peppers are an excellent choice for family meals or to impress guests with a delicious and visually appealing dish.

The origins of stuffed peppers are lost in the mists of time, being a recipe adapted over the years in different cultures. They are a symbol of hospitality, bringing together fresh and healthy ingredients, transforming an ordinary meal into a culinary feast.

Necessary ingredients:
- 8 bell peppers (choose medium-sized peppers for even stuffing)
- 1 kg ground pork (you can also use beef or a combination)
- 1 cup of rice (preferably long-grain rice)
- 3-4 dried onions (red onion adds a sweeter taste)
- 1 small carrot (for a hint of sweetness)
- Tomatoes for caps (about 2-3 tomatoes)
- A bunch of fresh parsley (for a vibrant aroma)
- A bunch of fresh dill (optional, but recommended for added flavor)
- Salt and pepper to taste (feel free to experiment)
- 200 ml tomato juice (freshly made tomato juice is ideal)
- 400 ml borscht (for a pleasant acidity)

Preparing the stuffed peppers:
1. Start by cleaning the peppers. Cut off the top of each pepper, removing the stem and seeds. Wash them well inside and let them drain. A helpful tip: if you want the peppers to stand upright, trim a bit from the bottom, but be careful not to pierce them.

2. In a pan, add a few tablespoons of oil and sauté the chopped onion and carrot. This will bring a special flavor to the filling. Sauté until they become translucent and soft, about 5-7 minutes.

3. Add the tomato juice over the vegetables and mix well. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes, then let everything cool down. This is an essential step, as a warm mixture will help to combine the ingredients evenly.

4. Once the mixture has cooled, add the ground meat, washed rice, parsley, and dill (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix well until you obtain a uniform paste. Use your hands to ensure all ingredients are well integrated.

5. Fill each pepper with the mixture obtained, leaving a little space at the top, as the rice will absorb liquid during cooking. Cover each stuffed pepper with a halved tomato or a cut cap.

6. Place the stuffed peppers in the slow cooker. Pour the borscht over them and, if desired, you can also add additional water or tomato juice to partially cover the peppers. This will prevent them from drying out.

7. Set the slow cooker to HIGH and let it cook for 3-4 hours. If you have time, cooking on LOW for 6-8 hours can add extra flavor. Check occasionally if you need to add liquid.

Serving:
Stuffed peppers are delicious served warm, alongside a dollop of sour cream and, if you like, with hot peppers for an extra kick. This combination of flavors will turn every bite into a true explosion of tastes. You can also accompany this dish with a fresh green salad to balance the meals.

Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use other types of meat? Absolutely! You can experiment with beef, chicken, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
- How can I store leftovers? Stuffed peppers keep well in the fridge in airtight containers for 3-4 days. They can be reheated in the microwave or on the stovetop.
- What other sides can I serve with stuffed peppers? Boiled rice or mashed potatoes are excellent options.

Nutritional Benefits:
This recipe is not only delicious but also nutritious. Peppers are an excellent source of vitamin C, and ground meat provides essential proteins. The rice in the filling adds complex carbohydrates, thus offering a balanced meal.

In conclusion, stuffed peppers in a slow cooker are a simple and quick recipe, perfect for days when you want to prepare something tasty without spending too much time in the kitchen. I encourage you to experiment with the ingredients and add your personal touches. Enjoy your meal!