Stuffed peppers with couscous

Delicious Recipe: Stuffed Peppers with Couscous

If you're looking for a surprising recipe full of flavor, aroma, and color, stuffed peppers with couscous are the perfect choice! This modern take on a classic dish adds a touch of originality and savor to the plate. The dish is not only delicious but also healthy, offering a mix of essential nutrients. Let's embark on this culinary adventure!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 4 bell peppers of different colors (red, yellow, orange)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon of hot pepper paste (adjust to taste)
- salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 2/3 cup couscous
- 2/3 cup water
- 4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2-3 large, plump black raisins
- 2 teaspoons curry
- 2 tablespoons fresh mint leaves, finely chopped
- 1 egg yolk
- fresh mint leaves for garnish

Preparation:

1. Preheat the oven: Start by preheating the oven to 200°C. This will ensure even baking and help achieve a tender texture for the peppers.

2. Prepare the peppers: Wash the peppers well and make a slit in each from the stem to the middle of the bottom. Be careful to keep the stems intact, as they will add a nice touch to the dish. Remove the seeds and core.

3. Cook the couscous: In a saucepan, bring water to a boil. Once the water is boiling, add the couscous, 1 tablespoon of oil, salt, and pepper. Stir well and let it soak for 5 minutes. The couscous will absorb the water and become fluffy.

4. Prepare the filling: Meanwhile, in a skillet, add 2 tablespoons of oil and heat over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, raisins, hot pepper paste, salt, and pepper. Sauté everything over low heat for 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes translucent. This step is essential to bring out the flavors of the ingredients.

5. Mix the ingredients: Once the couscous is ready, add the onion mixture, chopped mint, and egg yolk. Mix well to obtain a homogeneous filling, and then season with salt and pepper.

6. Stuff the peppers: Fill each pepper with the couscous mixture, leaving a little space at the top. This will help the filling expand during baking. Place the peppers in a baking dish greased with the remaining oil.

7. Bake: Place the dish in the oven and let the peppers bake for about 20 minutes until they become tender and slightly browned.

8. Serve: Once the peppers are ready, take them out of the oven and let them cool slightly. Serve them warm, garnished with fresh mint leaves, which not only add a nice touch but also an extra note of freshness.

Serving suggestions: These stuffed peppers with couscous are perfect for a light lunch or as an appetizer at a dinner with friends. You can serve them alongside a crisp green salad or a yogurt sauce with mint to complement the flavors.

Nutritional benefits: Peppers are an excellent source of vitamin C, antioxidants, and fiber, while couscous adds complex carbohydrates, providing lasting energy. Raisins are rich in iron and antioxidants, and mint not only adds flavor but also aids digestion.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use other grains instead of couscous? Of course! You can substitute couscous with quinoa or rice, but the cooking time may vary.
- How can I make the recipe vegetarian? This recipe is already vegetarian, but you can add vegetables to the filling for an extra nutrient boost.
- Can the stuffed peppers be frozen? Yes, you can freeze the stuffed peppers before baking them. This will allow you to have a quick meal ready for busy days.

Possible variations: You can customize the filling by adding chopped nuts, olives, or even feta cheese for a burst of flavors. You can also experiment with different herbs, such as basil or parsley.

In conclusion, stuffed peppers with couscous are an excellent choice for a healthy and colorful meal. This simple and quick recipe is easy to adapt to your tastes and will surely impress anyone who enjoys it. Dare to try it and enjoy a dish that will bring a smile to the faces of your loved ones!