Stuffed Vegetables

Delicious stuffed vegetable recipe - An explosion of flavors and colors

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 50 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 10 minutes
Servings: 4

Stuffed vegetables represent a classic recipe, loved by generations, that combines the fresh taste of vegetables with a hearty and flavorful filling. This recipe is perfect for a family dinner or a festive meal, offering both satisfaction and an appealing appearance. Whether you choose to use beef, pork, or even a vegetarian option, stuffed vegetables are versatile and can be adapted to everyone's tastes.

Necessary ingredients:

- 2 medium zucchini
- 4 ripe tomatoes
- 4 bell peppers (preferably in different colors for a vibrant look)
- 500 g minced meat (can be a mix of pork and beef or a vegetarian option like quinoa)
- 3 medium onions
- 3 tablespoons of semolina or rice (to add texture and absorb the juice from the vegetables)
- 2 additional tomatoes for caps
- Sour cream (for serving)
- Fresh parsley leaves (for garnish and added flavor)
- Salt and pepper to taste

Necessary utensils:

- Knife
- Teaspoon
- Deep baking tray or pot
- Mixing bowl
- Spoon for stuffing

Step by step, how to prepare stuffed vegetables:

1. Preparing the vegetables: Start by washing the bell peppers, zucchini, and tomatoes well. Remove the stems from the peppers and scoop out the insides of the zucchini and tomatoes using a teaspoon. This step is essential as it will create space for the filling. Make sure not to remove too much of the insides to avoid destroying their structure.

2. Chopping the onion: Finely chop the onion. You can use a knife or a food processor, depending on your preference. The onion will add a delicious flavor to the filling.

3. Preparing the filling: In a large bowl, mix the minced meat with the onion, the insides scooped from the zucchini and tomatoes, semolina (or rice), salt, and pepper to taste. Make sure the mixture is homogeneous and all ingredients are well integrated. If using minced meat, it's best to choose a moderate fat content for a juicy filling.

4. Stuffing the vegetables: Using a spoon, fill each vegetable with the meat mixture, leaving a little space at the top to allow the filling to expand during cooking. Place the caps of the tomatoes on top of each stuffed tomato to keep the juice inside.

5. Arranging the vegetables: Place the stuffed vegetables in a deep pot or baking tray. This step is important to ensure even cooking.

6. Adding liquid: Pour the juice from the tomatoes (or tomato sauce) and water into the pot so that it covers the vegetables halfway. Add salt to taste to enhance the flavors.

7. Boiling: Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, then cover the pot with a lid and let it simmer for about 40 minutes. This step will allow the vegetables to soften and the filling to absorb flavors.

8. Baking: Once the vegetables are almost cooked, preheat the oven to 180°C and transfer the pot to the oven for about 10 minutes. This step will add a slight crust on the surface and intensify the flavors.

9. Serving: Serve the stuffed vegetables hot, garnished with sour cream and fresh parsley leaves. This detail not only enhances the appearance but also adds a fresh and aromatic touch.

Practical tips for a perfect result:

- Choosing vegetables: Choose fresh and well-ripened vegetables for the best results. Peppers and tomatoes should be firm, and zucchinis should be hard and blemish-free.
- Variations: You can experiment by adding various spices to the filling, such as basil, oregano, or smoked paprika, to customize the flavors. You can also add feta or mozzarella cheese for a creamier filling.
- Vegetarian options: If you want a vegetarian version, you can replace the meat with legumes like lentils or chickpeas, and add grains like quinoa or brown rice.
- Storing stuffed vegetables: These stuffed vegetables keep well in the refrigerator for 2-3 days, and the taste becomes even better the next day when the flavors have had time to meld.

Calories and nutritional benefits:

A serving of stuffed vegetables (approximately 2 vegetables) contains about 350-400 calories, depending on the type of meat and fat used. This dish is rich in protein, fiber, and vitamins, making it a healthy choice for a balanced meal. Fresh vegetables provide an important supply of antioxidants and essential nutrients, contributing to a healthy diet.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use different vegetables for stuffing?
Yes, you can use any stuffed vegetables, such as eggplants or mushrooms, to personalize your recipe.

2. What side dish pairs best?
Stuffed vegetables pair perfectly with a fresh green salad or a serving of basmati rice.

3. Can I freeze stuffed vegetables?
Yes, you can freeze the stuffed vegetables after cooking. Before serving, let them thaw completely and then heat them in the oven or microwave.

I invite you to try this stuffed vegetable recipe and share it with your loved ones! It's a great way to enjoy vegetables in a delicious and satisfying way. Perhaps, in the end, you will want to create your own variations, bringing a bit of your personal style into the kitchen. Bon appétit!