Stuffed bell pepper recipe
Bell pepper overview
Before knowing about stuffed bell pepper, let’s know about bell pepper –
Bell pepper also known as capsicum and it is a fruit belonging to the nightshade family. Bell peppers are a type of fruit and vegetable known for their mild flavor and vibrant color.
They come in different colors like green, red, yellow and orange, each color indicating a different degree of ripeness. Bell peppers are rich in vitamins A and C, making them a nutritious addition to salads, stir-fries and many other dishes.
They can be enjoyed raw or cooked, and add a sweet flavor to recipes.
Bell peppers are versatile cooking ingredients that add flavor to a wide range of dishes. When raw they provide a texture and a slightly sweet taste, making them suitable as a salad ingredient.
Their vibrant colors also make them popular for garnishing dishes and adding pops of color to culinary presentations.
When cooked, bell peppers soften and their flavors become milder. They are commonly used in stir-fries, fajitas, soups, stews, and pasta dishes, where they add depth and sweetness to the overall flavor profile.
Roasting bell peppers intensifies their sweetness and gives them a delicious smoky flavor, making them a popular choice with sandwiches.
Apart from culinary uses, bell peppers are nutritious. They are low in calories but high in vitamins and antioxidants.
For example, they are an excellent source of vitamin C, which supports the immune system, and vitamin A, which is important for vision and skin health.
Bell peppers also provide dietary fiber, which aids digestion and helps maintain health. Bell peppers are a versatile and nutritious addition to any diet, offering a variety of culinary possibilities and health benefits.
Whether raw, cooked, roasted or stuffed, they contribute both flavor and nutritional value to food and are enjoyed by many around the world.
What are stuffed peppers made of?
Stuffed peppers are a delicious dish where bell peppers are typically filled peppers with a mixture of ingredients such as ground meat (like beef or turkey), rice or quinoa, vegetables (like onions, tomatoes, and corn), and seasonings. Here’s a basic recipe to get you started:
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers (any color you prefer)
– 1 lb ground beef or turkey (you can also use ground chicken or pork)
– 1 cup cooked rice or quinoa
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
– 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1 tsp cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella work well)
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the peppers: Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes from inside. If needed, slice a small part of the bottom of each pepper to make them stand upright in the baking dish.
- Prepare the filling: In a large skillet, cook the ground meat over medium-high heat until browned. Drain any excess fat.
- Add vegetables and seasonings: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the meat. Cook for 2-3 minutes until onion is translucent. Stir in the drained diced tomatoes, corn kernels, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 5 minutes until everything is heated through and well combined.
- Combine with rice/quinoa: Stir in the cooked rice or quinoa until evenly mixed with the meat and vegetable mixture. Adjust seasoning if needed.
- Fill the peppers: Stuff each bell pepper with the filling mixture until they are full but not overflowing. Place the stuffed peppers upright in a baking dish.
- Bake: Cover the dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the peppers are tender.
- Add cheese and bake again: Remove the foil and sprinkle shredded cheese over the tops of the peppers. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro if desired, and serve hot.
Enjoy your delicious stuffed peppers! They make a satisfying meal on their own or can be paired with a side salad or crusty bread.