Stuffed peppers on a bed of tomatoes and smoked ham

Delicious stuffed peppers on a bed of tomatoes and kaizer

If you're looking for a recipe full of color, flavor, and taste, stuffed peppers on a bed of tomatoes and kaizer are the perfect solution for a weekend lunch or a special family dinner. This recipe combines tradition with fresh ingredients, and the result is a dish that will delight both the eyes and the taste buds.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Number of servings: 6-8

Ingredients

- 15 bell peppers (preferably in different colors for an appealing look)
- 6-7 large garden tomatoes
- 350 g kaizer (or bacon for a more intense flavor)
- 750 g ground turkey (or beef, according to preferences)
- 1 cup rice (preferably long grain)
- 4 large onions
- 2-3 carrots
- 1 kapia pepper
- 1 bunch of parsley
- 1 bunch of dill
- 3/4 cup sunflower or olive oil
- 3 tablespoons tomato paste
- Salt, pepper to taste
- Dried thyme
- 1 egg

Preparation

1. Preparing the peppers: Start by washing the peppers well. Cut off their tops and remove the seeds, being careful not to ruin their shape. The tops can be kept for later use.

2. Vegetables: Peel and wash the onion, then chop it finely. Peel, wash, and grate the carrot with a fine grater. Remove the seeds from the kapia pepper and grate it, adding a sweet and aromatic note to the filling.

3. Sautéing the vegetables: In a skillet, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until it becomes translucent. Then, add the grated carrot and continue cooking for another 2 minutes. Incorporate the tomato paste, mixing well, and let it simmer together for another 2 minutes.

4. The filling: In a large bowl, wash the rice with cold water 2-3 times. Add the ground meat, the sautéed vegetable mixture, the grated kapia pepper, and the finely chopped parsley and dill. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of dried thyme. Finally, add the egg and mix well with a wooden spoon until you achieve a homogeneous mixture.

5. Stuffing the peppers: Using a teaspoon, carefully fill the peppers with the prepared mixture. Make sure the filling is well compacted. Put the tops of the peppers back on.

6. Preparing the bed of tomatoes and kaizer: Wash the tomatoes and slice them into round slices. Place the tomato slices in a pot, followed by a few slices of kaizer and a sprig of dill. Then, place the stuffed peppers and repeat the layers until you finish the ingredients, ensuring that the last layer consists of tomato slices.

7. Baking: Fill the pot with water up to the level of the peppers, cover it with a lid, and place it in the preheated oven at 180 degrees Celsius. Let it bake for about 1 hour or until the peppers are tender, and the filling is well cooked.

8. Serving: After removing them from the oven, let them cool for a few minutes. Serve them warm, plain or alongside a fresh salad. You can add a spoonful of sour cream on top for extra creaminess.

Chef's tip

To achieve an even more intense flavor, you can add some olives or hot peppers to the filling if you like spicy food. You can also experiment with different types of ground meat, such as lamb or pork, to vary the flavor.

Nutritional benefits

This stuffed pepper recipe is not only delicious but also nutritious. Peppers are an excellent source of vitamins A and C, and turkey meat is rich in lean protein. Rice provides necessary carbohydrates for energy, while the vegetables contribute significantly to fiber intake.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use smaller peppers?
Of course! Small peppers are perfect for individual servings and can be cooked just as well.

2. How can I store leftovers?
Stuffed peppers can be stored in the refrigerator in airtight containers for 3-4 days. They can be reheated in the oven or microwave.

3. What other recipes go well with stuffed peppers?
These peppers pair perfectly with a summer salad or a serving of mashed potatoes. Additionally, a glass of dry white wine will perfectly complement the meal.

4. Is this a vegetarian recipe?
For a vegetarian version, you can replace the meat with chopped mushrooms, lentils, or tofu, and the result will be just as delicious.

Finish your meal on a sweet note by serving a quick dessert, such as chocolate mousse or a seasonal fruit tart. This way, you'll have a complete and balanced menu that will surely impress all your loved ones.

Happy cooking and enjoy your meal!