Stuffed peppers are a beloved classic across many cuisines, offering a hearty, satisfying, and versatile dish that’s perfect for any occasion. In this unique twist on the traditional recipe, vibrant bell peppers are filled with a delicious combination of seasoned minced meat, tender rice, and flavorful vegetables, then baked until perfectly tender. Topped with melted cheese and a dollop of sour cream, these stuffed peppers make for an impressive yet easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for both family meals and entertaining guests. This recipe offers a perfect balance of textures and flavors, making it a must-try for anyone looking for a wholesome, comforting meal.
Ingredients:
- 100 grams of rice
- 250 ml water
- 3 large bell peppers (any color)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 500 grams minced meat (beef, pork, or a mix)
- 1 large carrot, grated
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried Provencal herbs (or a blend of thyme, rosemary, and oregano)
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 100 grams shredded cheese (mozzarella, cheddar, or a blend)
- 2 tablespoons sour cream
- A small bunch of fresh dill, finely chopped
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Rice
- Wash the rice thoroughly in cold water to eliminate any excess starch.
- In a small saucepan, bring 250 ml of water to a boil.
- Add a pinch of salt, then stir in the rice.
- Lower the heat to a simmer, cover the pan, and cook the rice for about 12-15 minutes or until all the water is absorbed and the rice is tender.
Step 2: Prepare the Peppers
- While the rice is cooking, preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Wash the peppers thoroughly and cut off the tops to create lids.
- Carefully remove the seeds and membranes from the inside, keeping the peppers intact.
- Lightly brush the peppers with a little vegetable oil and season the insides with salt and pepper.
Step 3: Make the Filling
- In a large pan, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and grated carrot, sautéing them until soft and lightly golden, about 5 minutes.
- Add the minced meat to the pan and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and cooked through. This should take around 8-10 minutes.
- Stir in the garlic, tomato paste, soy sauce, dried Provencal herbs, and 1 teaspoon of salt. Cook for another 2 minutes to combine all the flavors.
- Add the cooked rice to the meat mixture, stirring until everything is well combined. Adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if necessary, then remove the pan from heat.
Step 4: Stuff and Bake the Peppers
- Spoon the meat and rice filling into each of the prepared peppers, packing the filling tightly but leaving a little space at the top.
- Place the stuffed peppers upright in a baking dish. Cover them with their “lids” (the tops you cut off earlier) or with aluminum foil.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, until the peppers are tender but still holding their shape.
Step 5: Add the Cheese and Finish Baking
- After 30-35 minutes of baking, remove the foil or pepper tops. Sprinkle a generous amount of shredded cheese over each stuffed pepper.
- Return the peppers to the oven and bake for an additional 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden brown.
Step 6: Serve
- Once the stuffed peppers are baked to perfection, remove them from the oven.
- Serve each pepper with a spoonful of sour cream on top and garnish with freshly chopped dill for added flavor and freshness.
Conclusion:
These hearty stuffed peppers, filled with a flavorful mix of minced meat, rice, and vegetables, offer a wholesome and delicious meal that’s perfect for a cozy dinner or even meal prep for the week. The combination of tender baked peppers, savory meat filling, melted cheese, and fresh dill creates a satisfying dish that’s both comforting and packed with vibrant flavors. Simple to prepare and endlessly customizable, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Enjoy them with a side salad or fresh bread for a complete meal!