Stuffed peppers with meat

Delicious Stuffed Peppers Recipe

Stuffed peppers with meat are a classic dish that evokes fond childhood memories, bringing with it a warmth and comfort. This simple yet flavorful meal has been passed down through generations and is perfect for gathering the family around the table. In this recipe, I will guide you step by step on how to prepare these delicious stuffed peppers, creating not just a dish, but a memorable culinary experience.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Servings: 4-6 servings

Necessary ingredients:
- 8 medium-sized peppers (red, green, or yellow, depending on your preference)
- 500 g pork (ideally with a bit of fat for juiciness)
- 2 medium onions (preferably white or yellow)
- 1 carrot (for added sweetness and nutrients)
- 2-3 tomatoes (fresh, for a rich flavor)
- 1 cup of rice (preferably long-grain for a pleasant texture)
- 1-2 tablespoons of tomato paste or tomato juice
- Oil (for frying)
- Fresh dill and parsley (for flavor)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Preparing the peppers:
Start by washing the peppers thoroughly under cold running water. Cut off the tops and carefully remove the seeds, making sure nothing is left inside. This will make it easier to fill them and ensure even cooking.

2. Preparing the filling:
Finely chop the onion and grate the carrot using a small grater. In a large skillet, add a bit of oil and sauté the onion for about 2-3 minutes until it becomes translucent. Add the grated carrot and continue to sauté for another 2-3 minutes. Pour in a cup of water and let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes.

3. Adding the ingredients:
Once the water has reduced, add the tomato paste, rice, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Mix well and let it simmer on low heat, stirring occasionally, until the rice absorbs the water and becomes slightly translucent.

4. Combining with the meat:
In a large bowl, place the ground meat and add the mixture from the skillet. Sprinkle in the chopped dill and parsley, then season with salt and pepper. Mix everything thoroughly using a spatula or your hands until the ingredients are evenly distributed.

5. Filling the peppers:
Using a spoon, fill each pepper with the meat and rice mixture, leaving a little space at the top to allow the rice to expand during cooking. Cut the tops off the tomatoes to create small "lids" that you can place on top of the filling to prevent it from spilling out during boiling.

6. Frying the peppers:
In the same skillet where you sautéed the onion, add a bit of oil and fry the stuffed peppers on all sides until they are lightly browned. This step will give them a crunchy texture and a distinct flavor.

7. Simmering:
Place the fried peppers in a deep dish, on a layer of tomato slices. Pour in water and tomato paste or juice so that it partially covers the peppers, sprinkle with a little salt and pepper, then cover the dish with a lid. Simmer on low heat for about 30 minutes.

8. Baking:
Preheat the oven to 200 degrees Celsius. Once the peppers have simmered, transfer the dish to the oven and let them bake for 30-40 minutes, until the sauce has reduced and thickened.

Serving:
Stuffed peppers are delicious served with a dollop of sour cream on top, which adds extra creaminess. You can accompany them with a fresh salad or a slice of homemade bread to complete the meal.

Useful tips for a perfect result:
- Choosing the peppers: Opt for larger, meatier peppers that will hold the filling better.
- The meat: A combination of pork and beef can provide a more complex flavor. If you prefer a healthier option, you can use chicken.
- Variations: You can add extra vegetables to the filling, such as mushrooms or grated zucchini, to diversify the recipe.
- The sauce: If you enjoy a richer sauce, you can add a tablespoon of sour cream to the sauce in the dish before placing the peppers in the oven.

Nutritional benefits:
This stuffed pepper recipe is an excellent source of protein due to the meat, while the vegetables add essential vitamins and minerals. The rice complements the dish with carbohydrates, providing you with the energy needed for an active day.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use frozen peppers? It is recommended to use fresh peppers for the best texture and flavor. If you don’t have any on hand, make sure to fully thaw them before use.
- What other spices can I use? You can experiment with spices such as cumin, paprika, or even a pinch of cinnamon to add an exotic touch.
- How can I store leftovers? Stuffed peppers store well in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days. You can reheat them in the oven or microwave.

Stuffed peppers with meat are not just a tasty recipe, but also a wonderful way to reconnect with cherished childhood memories. So, prepare this simple recipe and enjoy every bite with your loved ones!