Stuffed peppers with pork in tomato sauce

Stuffed Bell Peppers with Pork in Tomato Sauce – A Flavorful and Aromatic Recipe

Who can resist the charm of stuffed bell peppers? This classic recipe, which combines rich flavors and delicious textures, is a perfect choice for family meals or a special occasion. Today, I will show you how to prepare stuffed bell peppers with pork, a recipe that will surely bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones. Let's get to work!

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

Ingredients

- 9 bell peppers (choose them to be firm and healthy, for easy stuffing)
- 750 g pork (opt for moderately fatty meat for juiciness)
- 100 g rice (preferably long-grain rice, which cooks evenly)
- 1 large onion
- 2 eggs (to bind the mixture)
- salt (to taste)
- ground black pepper (to taste)
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika (for a deeper flavor)
- 1 tablespoon flour (to form a cap on the filling)
- water (enough to cover the peppers)
- 500 ml tomato juice (you can also use crushed tomatoes for a fresher taste)
- 3-4 fresh basil leaves (for an extra flavor)
- a mix of herbs (marjoram, parsley, rosemary, thyme)
- a bunch of fresh parsley (for serving)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preparing the peppers: Start by washing the bell peppers well. Cut off the stems and remove the seeds with a knife, being careful not to damage their shape. It is important that the peppers remain whole, so the filling does not leak during cooking.

2. Preparing the filling: In a large bowl, add the minced pork, washed rice, chopped and peeled onion, eggs, salt, pepper, and paprika. Mix all the ingredients well with your hands or a spatula until everything is evenly combined.

3. Stuffing the peppers: Take each pepper and fill it with the meat mixture, pressing gently to ensure there are no air pockets. Finally, sprinkle a little flour on top of the filling to form a cap, which will help retain juiciness.

4. Boiling the peppers: Place the stuffed peppers in a large pot. Add water until they are covered and sprinkle a little salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium and let them simmer for about 30 minutes, until the meat is well cooked and the rice is soft.

5. Preparing the sauce: Once the peppers are ready, add the tomato juice and basil leaves to the pot. Let the sauce simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, to blend the flavors.

6. Finishing the dish: Before serving, chop the fresh parsley and sprinkle it over the flavorful stuffed peppers. This step will add a fresh contrast and enhance the presentation of the plate.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the stuffed peppers warm, alongside a fresh green salad or a portion of creamy polenta. This dish pairs wonderfully with a glass of white or red wine, depending on your preferences.

Variations and Tips

For a vegetarian version, replace the pork with chopped mushrooms or cooked lentils, adding extra spices to enhance the flavors. You can also experiment with different types of cheese in the filling, such as feta or mozzarella, for a richer taste.

Nutritional Information

This stuffed pepper recipe contains approximately 350 calories per serving, depending on the proportions of the chosen ingredients. Pork provides essential proteins, while rice offers complex carbohydrates, being a good source of energy. Peppers are rich in vitamins A and C, contributing to a healthy immune system.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of meat can I use?
In addition to pork, you can use beef or chicken, depending on your preferences.

Can I prepare the stuffed peppers in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the peppers a day ahead and store them in the refrigerator. When you are ready to serve, you can quickly boil them.

How can I store leftover peppers?
Stuffed peppers can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or can be frozen for later consumption.

What other recipes can I try?
If you enjoy cooking with peppers, you can also try the recipe for stuffed peppers with quinoa and vegetables or even baked peppers stuffed with cheese and herbs.

So, I wish you great success in preparing these stuffed bell peppers! Every bite will bring flavors and joy to your table, and this recipe will surely become one of your favorites. Bon appétit!