Stuffed Bell Peppers

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure that it’s the right temperature when your stuffed peppers are ready to go in.

2. Prepare the Bell Peppers:

Cut off the tops of the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes inside. If necessary, trim the bottom of the peppers slightly so they can stand upright. If you want to soften the peppers before stuffing them, blanch them by boiling them in water for 3-4 minutes, then drain and set them aside to cool.

3. Cook the Filling:

In a large skillet, heat a little oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant, about 3-5 minutes. Then, add the ground meat (beef, turkey, or your protein choice), breaking it apart as it cooks. Cook until browned and fully cooked through, about 8-10 minutes.

Once the meat is cooked, stir in the diced tomatoes, cooked rice, and spices—oregano, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Allow the mixture to simmer for 5-7 minutes so the flavors can meld together. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

4. Stuff the Peppers:

Spoon the meat and rice mixture into the hollowed bell peppers, packing them tightly. You can fill each pepper with a generous amount, as the filling will shrink slightly during baking.

5. Bake the Stuffed Peppers:

Place the stuffed peppers upright in a baking dish. If you have extra filling, you can spoon it around the peppers in the dish. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes. After this time, remove the foil and sprinkle the shredded cheese on top of each pepper.

6. Melt the Cheese:

Return the peppers to the oven and bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the peppers are tender.

7. Serve:

Remove the stuffed peppers from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro for a burst of color and freshness.

Tips for Perfect Stuffed Bell Peppers:

• Customization: You can swap out ingredients to suit your preferences. For example, use quinoa or couscous instead of rice for a different texture, or add vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or corn to the filling.
• Vegetarian Option: For a meatless meal, try using black beans, lentils, or crumbled tofu in place of ground meat. Add extra veggies for a flavorful and filling dish.
• Make Ahead: Stuffed peppers can be made ahead of time. Prepare and stuff the peppers, then refrigerate them for up to a day before baking. This is perfect for busy weeknights or dinner parties.
• Freezing: If you have leftovers, stuffed peppers freeze well! Wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap and store in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake from frozen at 375°F for about 45 minutes or until heated through.

Health Benefits:

Stuffed bell peppers are not only delicious but also a nutritious option. Bell peppers are an excellent source of vitamin C, which helps support the immune system. They’re also packed with antioxidants, fiber, and a variety of vitamins that contribute to overall health. The lean protein from the meat or plant-based substitute and the fiber from the rice or quinoa make this dish filling and satisfying.

Conclusion:

Stuffed bell peppers are an incredibly flexible dish that can be adapted to fit your dietary needs and personal tastes. Whether you prefer a traditional version with ground beef and rice or a more adventurous spin with different proteins and vegetables, this dish is sure to be a hit. With their vibrant colors and savory filling, stuffed bell peppers are the perfect comfort food that can be enjoyed year-round.