Mediterranean Stuffed Peppers
Introduction
Mediterranean Stuffed Peppers are a delicious and hearty dish that brings the flavors of the Mediterranean right to your table. These colorful peppers are filled with a savory mixture of ground beef, rice, and spices, then cooked in a rich tomato sauce. This recipe is perfect for a family dinner or a gathering with friends.
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is not only tasty but also offers a balanced meal. It’s packed with protein from the beef, fiber from the rice, and vitamins from the peppers. Mediterranean Stuffed Peppers are versatile; you can easily change the filling to suit your taste. Plus, they look vibrant and inviting, making them a great choice for any occasion!
How to Make Mediterranean Stuffed Peppers
Making Mediterranean Stuffed Peppers is simple and fun. Just follow these step-by-step directions.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup rinsed basmati rice
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 bunch of parsley, washed and stems removed
- 1 medium onion, cut into large pieces
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 medium red bell peppers, stem removed and cleaned from seeds
- 2 cups chicken stock
- 1 (6 oz) can of tomato paste
- 1 large onion, diced
- 4 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Directions:
- Add the rice and 1/2 cup of water into a small pot. Bring to a boil, lower the heat, and cover. Cook for a couple of minutes until the water is absorbed. Remove from heat and let cool. Fluff the rice with a fork and set aside.
- In a food processor, add the parsley leaves and a medium onion. Pulse until finely chopped.
- In a large bowl, mix the fluffed rice, parsley and onion mixture, and ground beef. Season with cumin, salt, and black pepper. Mix well using your hands.
- Fill each pepper with the meat mixture and set them aside in a casserole dish.
- For the sauce, bring the chicken stock to a boil in a smaller pot. Add the tomato paste and stir until dissolved, then remove from heat.
- In a wide, shallow pan, heat the olive oil. Add the diced onion and fry until it starts to brown. Season with salt and black pepper.
- Remove the pan from heat and add the stuffed peppers, placing them upright.
- Pour the sauce over the stuffed peppers, covering them.
- Cover the pan, bring the sauce to a boil, then lower the heat. Cook covered for about an hour.
- Serve hot with freshly made bread to dip in the sauce.
How to Serve Mediterranean Stuffed Peppers
Serve the stuffed peppers hot, straight from the pot. They can be topped with some extra parsley for garnish. Pair them with warm bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
How to Store Mediterranean Stuffed Peppers
If you have leftovers, let them cool first. Then, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for about 3 to 4 days. You can also freeze them for longer storage. Just make sure to wrap them well and label them.
Tips to Make Mediterranean Stuffed Peppers
- Choose firm and fresh peppers for the best results.
- You can adjust the spices according to your taste. Adding some chili flakes can give a nice kick!
- For a healthier version, try using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef.
- If you want a vegetarian option, swap the meat for black beans and add more vegetables.
Variation
You can vary the filling by using quinoa instead of rice or adding other vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms. Different spices can change the flavor profile too!
FAQs
1. Can I prepare Mediterranean Stuffed Peppers ahead of time?
Yes! You can make the stuffing and fill the peppers in advance. Just store them in the fridge until you’re ready to cook.
2. How do I know when the peppers are done cooking?
The peppers are done when they are tender and the filling reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
3. Can I use different types of peppers?
Absolutely! While red bell peppers are delicious, you can also use yellow, green, or even mini peppers for a fun twist.
Mediterranean Stuffed Peppers are a delightful dish that everyone will love! Enjoy making and sharing them with family and friends.
