Stuffed peppers with meat

Stuffed peppers with meat – A delicious and comforting recipe

Stuffed peppers with meat are a traditional dish that brings the rich and flavorful aromas of fresh ingredients to the table. This recipe is not just a feast for the taste buds, but also a wonderful way to gather the family around the table. Over time, this recipe has been adapted and enriched, but its essence remains the same: a savory combination of meat and vegetables, all harmoniously wrapped in a sweet and juicy pepper.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 60 minutes
Total time: 80 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Ingredients

- 500 g minced meat (ideally a mix of pork and beef)
- 8 - 10 peppers
- 150 g rice (preferably long-grain rice)
- 1 medium onion
- 2-3 tablespoons olive oil (or sunflower oil)
- 1 bunch of fresh dill (or 1-2 tablespoons dried)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 200 g tomato paste (optional, for sauce)
- Water or vegetable broth, enough to cover the peppers

Necessary utensils

- Knife and cutting board
- Large bowl
- Baking tray
- Wooden spoon
- Pot for boiling rice

Preparation method

1. Preparing the filling: Start by finely chopping the onion. In a pan, add the oil and sauté the onion over medium heat until it becomes translucent and soft. Add the minced meat over the onion and mix well. Cook for a few minutes until the meat is well browned. Make sure to break it up well with the wooden spoon.

2. Adding the rice: Once the meat is cooked, add the washed and drained rice. Mix well to combine the ingredients. Cook everything together for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the rice to absorb the flavors. Season with salt, pepper, and freshly chopped dill (or dried) to taste.

3. Preparing the peppers: Meanwhile, wash the peppers under cold running water to remove any impurities. Cut off the tops of the peppers and remove the seeds using a spoon. You can let them drain in a colander for a few minutes.

4. Stuffing the peppers: Fill each pepper with the meat and rice mixture, being careful not to overfill, as the rice will expand during cooking. Place the stuffed peppers in a baking tray.

5. Cooking the peppers: In a pot, add water or vegetable broth to cover the peppers and pour it over them in the tray. If you want a richer sauce, you can add the tomato paste on top of the peppers. Cover the tray with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven at 180°C. Cook for about 45-60 minutes. Check occasionally and add more water or broth if necessary.

6. Finishing and serving: Once the peppers are well cooked and the filling is soft, remove the aluminum foil and leave them in the oven for another 10-15 minutes to brown slightly. Serve the peppers warm, alongside a spoonful of sour cream or yogurt for added creaminess.

Chef's tip

To add a special touch, you can sprinkle some cumin seeds or oregano in the filling. Also, if you want a spicier version, you can add a little finely chopped hot pepper to the meat mixture.

Possible variations

- Vegan: Replace the meat with a mix of chopped mushrooms and vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or eggplant. Use rice and spices to taste.
- Grilled peppers: If you prefer a healthier cooking method, you can grill the peppers after stuffing them for a smoky flavor.

Delicious combinations

Stuffed peppers pair excellently with a fresh summer salad or mashed potatoes. You can accompany them with a glass of red wine or a refreshing cocktail, such as a mojito with fresh mint.

Nutritional benefits

This recipe is rich in protein due to the meat and rice, while the peppers provide an important source of vitamins, especially vitamin C. Dill adds not only flavor but also antioxidant properties.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use another type of meat?
Yes, you can use chicken, turkey, or even game meat, depending on your preferences.

2. How can I store leftover peppers?
They can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 3-4 days. You can reheat them in the microwave or oven.

3. Can I freeze stuffed peppers?
Yes, you can freeze the stuffed peppers before cooking them. Place them in an airtight container and cook them directly from the freezer, adding a little extra time to the cooking.

Whether you're making them for a special occasion or just to treat your family, stuffed peppers with meat are an excellent choice that won't disappoint. Enjoy!