Pepper stew or ratatouille with rice

Stuffed Peppers with Rice: a classic recipe full of flavor and color

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6

In the culinary world, stuffed peppers with rice is a recipe that brings a touch of nostalgia and comfort. This delicious dish, rich in vegetables and flavor, is perfect for fasting days or for anyone looking to enjoy a healthy and nourishing meal. The story of this recipe is lost in the mists of time, but its essence remains constant: simple, tasty, and vibrant.

Our magical ingredients:

1. 1.5 kg of peppers (preferably a mix of red, yellow, and green peppers for a vibrant color palette)
2. 3 large ripe tomatoes
3. 1 medium onion
4. 3 tablespoons of rice (long-grain rice is ideal, as it absorbs flavors well)
5. 2-3 tablespoons of oil (sunflower or olive oil, depending on preferences)
6. Salt, pepper to taste
7. 1 tablespoon of tomato paste (for an extra burst of flavor)

Preparing the stuffed peppers:

Step 1: Preparing the peppers
The first step is to deal with the peppers. Roasting them will enhance their flavors and give them a soft, pleasant texture. Preheat the oven to 200 degrees Celsius. Place the peppers on a tray and roast them for 20-25 minutes until the skin becomes slightly charred and puffs up. An alternative is to roast them on the stovetop, turning them frequently for even cooking.

Once roasted, transfer them to a bowl, sprinkle with a little salt, cover with a lid, and let them cool. This will help in peeling the skin off more easily.

Step 2: Chopping the vegetables
While the peppers are cooling, peel the onion and chop it finely. The tomatoes need to be peeled; to make this easier, you can quickly dip them in hot water for 30 seconds, then in cold water. This will allow the skins to come off easily. Dice the tomatoes.

Step 3: Cooking the onion and tomatoes
Heat the oil in a large skillet. Add the chopped onion and cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until it becomes translucent. This step is essential as the onion will add a flavorful base to the dish. After a minute, add the diced tomatoes and let them soften together with the onion for 2-3 minutes.

Step 4: Boiling the vegetables
Add about 3/4 cup of water to the skillet and let the mixture boil for 10 minutes. This step will allow the tomatoes to release their juice, creating a delicious base for the dish.

Step 5: Adding the peppers and rice
When the peppers have cooled, peel off the skin, remove the stems and seeds, then slice them into strips. Add them to the skillet and let them simmer with the sauce for another 10 minutes. Meanwhile, wash the rice with warm water to remove excess starch. This will help prevent the rice from becoming sticky.

After 10 minutes, add the rice to the skillet, mixing well. If the mixture is too dry, add a little hot water. Cook until the rice is fully cooked, usually between 15-20 minutes.

Step 6: Seasoning and serving
When the rice is cooked, season with salt and pepper to taste, then add the tomato paste. Mix everything well and let it simmer for a few minutes to combine the flavors. Turn off the heat and let the dish cool slightly before serving.

Serving suggestions
Stuffed peppers with rice can be served warm or at room temperature. It is delicious alongside a fresh green salad or a slice of homemade bread. It can also be accompanied by natural yogurt or feta cheese for a contrast of flavors.

Delicious variations
This recipe offers many possibilities for customization. You can add vegetables like carrots or zucchini to enhance the flavor. Also, if you want to make a heartier version, you can add some diced potatoes or even some slices of sausage for a more complex flavor.

Nutritional benefits
This dish is rich in fiber due to the vegetables and rice, having a low calorie content, making it ideal for a healthy diet. Peppers are an excellent source of vitamin C, and onions and tomatoes add important antioxidants.

Frequently asked questions
1. Can I use frozen peppers?
Yes, frozen peppers can be used, but the texture will be different. Roasting them beforehand will not be necessary.

2. How long can the dish be stored?
The dish can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. It can be reheated in the microwave or on the stovetop.

3. Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
Absolutely! This is a 100% vegetarian and vegan recipe.

4. Can I add other spices?
Of course! Herbs like basil, oregano, or marjoram add a delicious flavor to the dish.

Conclusion
Stuffed peppers with rice is not just a simple recipe, but also a way to bring all the flavors and colors of summer to the table, even on gloomy days. It is a dish that combines tradition with innovation, offering an unforgettable culinary experience. So, don’t hesitate to try this recipe at home and adapt it to your personal taste. Whether served for a family meal or a special occasion, stuffed peppers will surely bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones. Bon appétit!