Stuffed peppers with turkey meat

Stuffed bell peppers with turkey meat - a delight that combines the savory taste of vegetables with the delicate flavors of meat. This recipe is not only a hearty dish but also a healthy choice for any meal. Let's discover together how we can prepare these stuffed peppers step by step, in an engaging and aromatic way!

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 55 minutes
Total time: 85 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6

Necessary ingredients:
- 10 medium bell peppers (you can use red, yellow, or green peppers, preferably without spots or defects)
- 700 g ground turkey (optionally, you can add 50 g of bacon or lard for extra flavor)
- 60 g rice
- 50 ml olive oil
- 1 large onion
- 1 egg
- 30 g flour
- 50 g tomato paste (or tomato juice/puree)
- 2 carrots
- 1 small celery
- ½ bunch of fresh dill
- Salt and pepper to taste
- A pinch of thyme
- 1 small bay leaf
- Sour cream or yogurt for serving

Brief history:
Stuffed peppers have been a beloved dish across many cultures over time. This simple and versatile recipe has evolved into various versions, each with its own story. Regardless of the ingredients used, filling peppers with meat or vegetables has become a tradition in many households, symbolizing a hearty meal full of love.

Step by step:
1. Preparing the peppers: Choose quality peppers without spots or blemishes. Cut off the stem and remove the seeds, then wash them well under cold running water. This step is essential to ensure a tasty and healthy filling.

2. Chopping the vegetables: Peel and finely chop the onion, then wash and slice the carrots and celery thinly. Finely chop the dill, making sure to select the freshest leaves, which will add a special flavor.

3. Preparing the filling: In a large bowl, mix the ground turkey with the sautéed onion (a few minutes in olive oil), rice, beaten egg, and chopped dill. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of thyme. Mix well until you achieve a homogeneous mixture. This mix is the delicious base for your stuffed peppers.

4. Stuffing the peppers: Use a spoon to fill each pepper with the meat mixture. Fill them well, but don't overdo it, as the rice will expand during cooking. After stuffing, dust the stem end with flour to seal the filling.

5. Preparing the sauce: In another bowl, mix the tomato paste with water from the pot where the peppers were boiled to obtain a thick sauce. Add the olive oil and mix well.

6. Arranging in the dish: Prepare a heat-resistant dish where you will add the sauce obtained. Place the stuffed peppers on top of it, and add the sliced carrots and celery over them. Add a whole tomato and a bay leaf to enhance the flavors.

7. Boiling: Fill the dish with warm water up to the level of the peppers. Place it on the stove and let it boil for 10 minutes. This step will help cook the peppers evenly.

8. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180°C. Remove the peppers from the water and place them in the dish with sauce. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes. During this time, the flavors will blend perfectly, and the peppers will become tender and delicious.

9. Serving: Serve the stuffed peppers warm, alongside a spoonful of sour cream or yogurt. This will add a refreshing note and perfectly contrast the intense flavors of the dish.

Useful tips:
- Calories and nutritional benefits: This recipe is a healthy option, with a moderate calorie content due to the turkey meat, which is leaner compared to other types of meat. Peppers are rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, while rice provides complex carbohydrates.
- Variations: You can add chopped mushrooms, zucchini, or other vegetables to the filling to vary the taste. You can also experiment with different types of meat, such as chicken, beef, or even plant-based options.
- Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use frozen peppers?: It is better to use fresh peppers for optimal texture.
- How can I store leftovers?: Stuffed peppers keep well in the fridge in an airtight container and can be reheated in the oven or microwave.

Serving suggestions:
For a complete meal, you can pair stuffed peppers with a fresh salad or a side of mashed potatoes. A cold drink, such as mint tea or tomato juice, will perfectly complement this meal.

Now that you have all the necessary information, all that’s left is to get cooking! Stuffed bell peppers with turkey meat are an excellent choice for a family dinner or a special occasion. Enjoy your meal!