Stuffed peppers in sweet aromatic sauce

Stuffed peppers in sweet aromatic sauce - a recipe that combines the rich taste of meat with the sweetness of the sauce, turning an ordinary meal into an unforgettable culinary experience. This recipe is perfect for a family dinner or to impress guests. Let's discover together how to prepare these delicious stuffed peppers, step by step.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6

Ingredients

For stuffed peppers:
- 10 peppers (preferably red or yellow for a sweeter taste)
- 500 g pork shoulder (you can also use a mix of pork and beef for a more complex flavor)
- 100 g bacon (adds extra flavor and juiciness)
- 1 medium onion
- 2 carrots (for added sweetness and color)
- A handful of rice (about 100 g, washed and soaked in hot water for 10 minutes)
- A bunch of fresh parsley (for freshness)
- Salt and pepper to taste

For the sauce:
- 2 tablespoons of flour
- A bit of oil (about 2-3 tablespoons)
- 750 ml tomato juice (or tomato puree for a more concentrated sauce)
- A pinch of salt
- 3 tablespoons of sugar (to balance the acidity of the tomatoes)
- Fresh basil (chopped finely)
- Fresh oregano (chopped finely)

Recipe history

Stuffed peppers have a long history, being a beloved dish in many cultures. This recipe has often been prepared in households as a hearty dish, ideal for feeding a large family. By combining vegetables with meat and rice, stuffed peppers become not only a nourishing meal but also a symbol of sharing and conviviality, bringing people together around the table.

Step by step

1. Preparing the filling:
Start by finely chopping the pork shoulder along with the bacon, onion, and carrot. Use a food processor or a sharp knife to achieve a uniform consistency.

2. Adding the rice:
Once you have a homogeneous filling, add the washed and drained rice. This will absorb the flavors and help bind the ingredients. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then add the chopped parsley.

3. Preparing the peppers:
Wash the peppers well, then cut off the top and remove the seeds and inner membranes. This step is essential to avoid a bitter taste and make stuffing easier.

4. Stuffing the peppers:
Each pepper is filled with the meat and rice mixture, being careful not to pack it too tightly, as the rice will expand during cooking.

5. Boiling the peppers:
Place the stuffed peppers in a larger pot, allowing them to sit comfortably without crowding. Add enough water to cover them, season with salt and pepper, then add a bit of tomato puree. Boil over medium heat for about 1 hour, or until the meat and rice are fully cooked.

6. Preparing the sauce:
In a saucepan, add the oil and flour, stirring quickly to avoid lumps. After a few seconds, remove the pot from the heat and gradually add the tomato juice, stirring continuously. Put it back on the heat, add salt and sugar, and let it boil for 10 minutes, stirring constantly. Finally, add the basil and oregano for a fresh flavor.

7. Finalizing the dish:
Remove the peppers from the water and carefully place them in the tomato sauce. Let them soak well in the sauce's flavors for a few minutes.

Serving

Serve the stuffed peppers warm, covered with the aromatic sauce. They can be accompanied by warm polenta or a fresh salad, which will add a note of freshness to this hearty dish.

Practical tips

- Choosing peppers: Choose medium-sized peppers that are uniform to cook evenly. Red or yellow peppers are sweeter than green ones.
- Meat variations: You can experiment with chicken or turkey, or even combinations of meat and mushrooms for a vegetarian option.
- Creamy sauce: If you want to add a touch of creaminess, you can add sour cream to the tomato sauce, mixing well to achieve a smooth texture.

Calories and nutritional benefits

This stuffed pepper recipe is a rich source of protein due to the meat and rice, while the vegetables add essential vitamins and minerals. Calories may vary depending on the ingredients used, but a serving of stuffed peppers can contain approximately 350-450 calories.

Frequently asked questions

- How can I store stuffed peppers for the next day? Stuffed peppers can be stored in the refrigerator, covered, for 2-3 days. Reheat them in the oven or skillet, adding a bit of sauce to prevent them from drying out.
- Can I freeze stuffed peppers? Yes, stuffed peppers can be frozen, but it is ideal to freeze them before boiling. You can boil them directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Variations

- Stuffed peppers with vegetables: For a vegetarian option, you can replace the meat with a mix of vegetables, rice, and feta or ricotta cheese.
- Spicy stuffed peppers: Add chopped hot peppers to the filling or sauce for a spicy kick.

In conclusion, this recipe for stuffed peppers in sweet aromatic sauce is not only easy to prepare but also extremely versatile. It will bring joy in every bite and will surely become a family favorite. Enjoy your meal!