Stuffed peppers

Stuffed peppers are a delicacy that brings together rich flavors and a culinary tradition that has been cherished for generations. This simple and versatile recipe will turn your meal into a celebration of flavors, and each bite will take you on a journey full of taste. Whether you serve them on a weekend or prepare them for a special occasion, stuffed peppers are always an excellent choice.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Number of servings: 8 servings

Ingredients:

- 1 kg of peppers (about 10 medium pieces)
- 2-3 tomatoes
- 1 kg of minced meat (we recommend turkey, but you can also use beef or pork)
- 4 medium onions
- 1 cup of rice
- A bunch of fresh parsley
- Fresh thyme leaves (a few)
- 1 egg
- Whole and ground pepper (to taste)
- 2 bay leaves
- 4 tablespoons of tomato paste
- Salt (to taste)

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Preparing the peppers: Start by washing the peppers well. Cut off the top of each pepper and remove the seeds and internal membranes. This step is essential to achieve an even filling and to allow the flavors to penetrate well.

2. Filling mixture: In a large bowl, add the minced meat. Finely chop the onion and add it to the meat. Rinse the rice under cold water to remove excess starch, then add it to the bowl. Chop the parsley and thyme leaves and add them to the mixture. Add the egg, salt, ground pepper, and mix all the ingredients well. This filling is the key to success! Taste the mixture and adjust the seasonings to your preference.

3. Filling the peppers: Fill each pepper with the meat mixture, being careful not to overstuff them, as the rice will expand during cooking. Place a slice of tomato on each pepper to add moisture and flavor.

4. Cooking the peppers: In a large pot, place the stuffed peppers and add enough water to cover them halfway. Cover the pot with a lid and let them simmer over medium heat for 30 minutes. This step will help cook the rice and allow the flavors to develop.

5. Adding the sauce: After 30 minutes, add the tomato paste, bay leaves, whole pepper, and a pinch of salt. Cover the pot again and transfer everything to the preheated oven at 180°C. Let them brown for about 30 minutes. This step will add a delicious crust to the peppers and intensify the flavors.

Serving suggestions: Stuffed peppers are served warm, alongside sour cream or yogurt, depending on your preference. You can also add a fresh summer salad or a side of mashed potatoes for a complete meal. This recipe pairs perfectly with a glass of dry white wine or a fragrant herbal tea that will complement the rich flavors of the dish.

Tips and suggestions:
- You can also experiment with other types of meat, such as pork or a mix of beef and pork for a more intense flavor.
- Add grated vegetables (such as carrots) to the filling for extra nutrients and texture.
- If you like spicy flavors, add a little chili pepper to the meat mixture.

Nutritional benefits: This dish is rich in protein due to the minced meat and provides a significant amount of fiber thanks to the rice and vegetables. Eating peppers is also beneficial due to the vitamins and minerals they contain, such as vitamin C and antioxidants.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use peppers of other colors? Absolutely! Red, yellow, or green peppers are just as good and add beautiful hues to the plate.
- What can I do with leftovers? If you have leftover filling, you can use it to stuff zucchini or eggplant, giving them a culinary new life.
- Can stuffed peppers be frozen? Yes, you can freeze stuffed peppers before cooking them. Place them in an airtight container and keep them in the freezer. When you want to prepare them, let them thaw in the refrigerator before cooking.

Personal story: I fondly remember the moments spent with my grandmother in the kitchen, learning to cook this classic recipe. Every detail, from choosing the peppers to how I mixed the filling, was a lesson in love and tradition. Now, when I prepare stuffed peppers for my family, I feel that I keep this bond alive, and every meal becomes an opportunity to share memories and stories.

Stuffed peppers are more than just a dish – they are a culinary experience full of tradition, love, and flavor. So, put on your apron and prepare this delicious recipe to bring joy to your loved ones! Enjoy your meal!