Stuffed peppers

Delicious stuffed bell peppers with turkey meat and rice recipe

Total: 1 hour
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Stuffed peppers are a traditional dish loved by many generations, combining the flavor of meat with the sweetness of vegetables. This recipe is not only a great way to enjoy vegetables but also a perfect opportunity to gather the family around the table. Whether served at a special dinner or just on an ordinary evening, this dish is sure to bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones.

Ingredients:

- 12 large bell peppers (preferably of various colors for an attractive appearance)
- 500 g ground turkey meat
- 2 tablespoons rice
- 1 egg
- 2 medium onions
- 1 carrot
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 500 ml broth
- 200 ml oil
- 2 tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon flour
- Fresh dill
- Fresh parsley
- 1 sprig of fresh thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 Knorr vegetable cube
- Salt (to taste)
- Pepper (to taste)
- Sour cream (for serving)

Instructions:

1. Preparing the peppers: Start by removing the tops and seeds from the peppers. This step may seem simple, but make sure to clean them well to avoid a bitter taste. Once cleaned, blanch them in boiling water for 2-3 minutes. This step will not only soften them but also make filling easier. After blanching, place them opening down on a clean towel or in a colander to drain well.

2. Preparing the filling: Chop the onion and carrot. The onion can be diced finely, while the carrot should be grated to incorporate easily into the mixture. In a pan, add the oil and sauté the onion over medium heat until it becomes translucent. Add the grated carrot and continue to sauté the mixture for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently to avoid burning.

3. Adding the meat: Once the onion and carrot have softened, add the rice. Mix well and let it sauté for 2-3 minutes. Then, add the ground turkey meat, finely chopped herbs (dill and parsley), salt, pepper, and the beaten egg. Mix everything very well, then remove the mixture from the heat.

4. Filling the peppers: Use a spoon to fill each pepper with the meat and rice mixture. Make sure to fill each pepper evenly, leaving a little space at the top to allow the rice to expand during cooking.

5. Preparing the sauce: Slice the tomatoes thinly. These will serve as a lid for the stuffed peppers. Place the tomato slices on top of each stuffed pepper. In a large pot, arrange the stuffed peppers. Add a sprig of thyme, the bay leaf, and enough water to cover the peppers (about 1-2 cups).

6. Boiling the peppers: Let the peppers boil over medium heat for about 40 minutes. It is important to check from time to time to ensure that the water hasn’t reduced too much.

7. Preparing the final sauce: In a separate bowl, mix the flour with the tomato paste. Gradually add the juice from the hot peppers, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Add the Knorr vegetable cube for extra flavor. Pour this sauce over the peppers in the pot and let it simmer for a few minutes until the sauce has thickened slightly.

8. Serving: Serve the stuffed peppers hot, with the sauce on top and a generous spoonful of sour cream on the side. This addition of sour cream will add a creamy note, balancing the intense flavors of the dish.

Useful tips:

- You can also use other types of ground meat, such as beef or pork, depending on your preferences.
- If you want a lighter version, you can omit the rice or use brown rice for a healthier option.
- Stuffed peppers can be stored well in the refrigerator for 2-3 days, and their flavor becomes even better the next day when the flavors have had time to combine.

Nutritional values (per serving):
Calories: approximately 450 kcal
Protein: 30 g
Carbohydrates: 35 g
Fats: 20 g

Stuffed peppers are not only a tasty dish but also an excellent source of protein and vitamins, thanks to the vegetables and lean meat. This recipe can be perfectly combined with a light green salad or a side of mashed potatoes.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use peppers of other colors?
Of course! Green, red, or yellow peppers not only provide an attractive color palette but also different flavors.

2. Is the recipe suitable for a diet?
This recipe can be easily adapted for diets by using lean turkey meat and reducing the amount of oil.

3. What drinks pair best?
A white wine or a natural tomato juice are excellent accompaniments to highlight the flavors of the dish.

I invite you to let yourself be carried away by the aromas and colors of this recipe and enjoy stuffed peppers in the company of your loved ones. Enjoy your meal!