Stuffed peppers

Stuffed Peppers with Meat and Rice Recipe - A Flavorful Delight

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

One of the most beloved dishes in our cuisine is undoubtedly stuffed peppers. This recipe combines the crunchy texture of the peppers with a juicy and flavorful filling, offering a treat that will delight both family and guests. Plus, each bite will take you back to childhood when mothers and grandmothers spoiled us with lovingly cooked goodies.

Ingredients needed:

- 4 bell peppers (preferably in various colors for a cheerful appearance)
- 1 medium onion
- 250 g ground meat (pork, beef, or a mix)
- 1 cup of rice (approximately 180 g)
- 3 cloves of garlic
- 3 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1 teaspoon of paprika
- 2 tablespoons of red pepper paste
- 3-4 ripe tomatoes (or 400 g canned tomatoes)
- 2-3 tablespoons of tomato paste
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2-3 tablespoons of sugar (to balance acidity)
- Fresh chopped parsley for garnish

Preparation steps:

1. Preparing the peppers:
Start by washing the bell peppers thoroughly under cold running water. Use a sharp knife to remove the seeds, being careful to keep the tops intact, which you will cut nicely, leaving the stem. This detail not only looks good but also adds extra flavor to the dish.

2. Sautéing the peppers:
In a large skillet, add 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil and heat it over medium heat. Sauté the peppers on all sides until they become slightly golden, which will enhance their flavor. Once done, remove them and set aside.

3. Preparing the filling:
Finely chop the onion and sauté it in the same skillet, adding a little oil if necessary. When it becomes translucent, add the minced garlic, paprika, and red pepper paste. Stir everything for 1-2 minutes, then add the rice. Sauté the mixture for another 2 minutes, allowing the rice to absorb the flavors.

4. Adding the meat:
Incorporate the ground meat, seasoning with salt, pepper, and chopped parsley. Mix well until the meat is evenly cooked and all ingredients are combined.

5. Stuffing the peppers:
Using a spoon, fill each pepper with the meat and rice mixture, being careful not to overstuff them as the rice will expand during cooking. Place the stuffed peppers in a pot with warm water, partially covering the peppers, and let them simmer over low heat for about 30 minutes.

6. Preparing the sauce:
While the peppers are simmering, reserve a few cups of the broth they cooked in. Add 3-5 ripe tomatoes and 2 slices of red bell pepper to the pot, and let them cook for 7 minutes. Use a blender to turn everything into a thick and smooth sauce. Taste the sauce and add salt to preference, along with the tomato paste and sugar, which will balance the acidity.

7. Baking the peppers:
Transfer the peppers from the pot to a ceramic dish and pour the sauce evenly over them. Cover the dish with aluminum foil to retain moisture and bake in a preheated oven at 180°C for 30 minutes. Occasionally, open the oven and pour a little sauce over the peppers to keep them juicy.

8. Serving:
Once the baking time is up, remove the peppers from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes. Serve them warm, alongside a dollop of sour cream, which will add a delicious and creamy contrast.

Practical tips:
- Choose peppers of similar sizes to ensure even cooking.
- If you want to try a vegetarian version, you can replace the meat with finely chopped vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or eggplant.
- Another interesting option is to add feta cheese or mozzarella to the filling for a richer flavor.
- Make sure to use a deep pot when boiling the peppers to avoid any sauce waste.

Nutritional information:
One serving of stuffed peppers contains approximately 350-400 calories, depending on the type of meat used and the amount of rice. This dish is a good source of protein from the meat and includes carbohydrates from the rice, making it a satisfying option for a main meal.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use brown rice? Yes, but it will require a longer cooking time, so adjust the boiling time accordingly.
- What other vegetables can I add to the filling? You can experiment with grated carrots, zucchini, or even olives for a more interesting flavor.
- How can I store the stuffed peppers? They can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 3 days and can be reheated in the microwave or oven.

This stuffed peppers recipe with meat and rice is not only simple but also brings a touch of nostalgia to every meal. Prepare them for a special occasion or simply to treat yourself to a delicious dish that is sure to bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones. Bon appétit!