Stuffed Green Peppers: A Flavorful and Healthy Recipe
This recipe for stuffed green peppers is a delicious and healthy way to enjoy a comforting meal. It's packed with flavor, easy to customize, and perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. We'll walk you through the process step-by-step, ensuring you achieve perfectly tender peppers with a savory, satisfying filling.
Ingredients You'll Need:
- 6 large green bell peppers: Choose peppers that are firm and free of blemishes.
- 1 pound ground beef (or turkey or a vegetarian substitute): Your choice of protein adds versatility.
- 1 medium onion, chopped: Provides sweetness and depth of flavor.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Adds a pungent kick.
- 1 cup uncooked long-grain rice: Provides a hearty base for the filling.
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained: Adds moisture and acidity.
- 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce: Enhances the richness of the filling.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Adds an earthy, aromatic note.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil: Complements the oregano perfectly.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a touch of spice.
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional): Adds a creamy, cheesy topping.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Preparing the Peppers:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures your peppers cook evenly and through.
- Cut the peppers in half lengthwise: Carefully remove the seeds and membranes from the inside.
- Lightly oil a 9x13 inch baking dish: This prevents sticking and ensures even browning.
Making the Filling:
- Brown the ground beef: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef until no longer pink. Drain any excess grease.
- Sauté the onion and garlic: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Combine the ingredients: Stir in the uncooked rice, diced tomatoes (undrained), tomato sauce, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer, reduce heat and cook for 5-7 minutes, until the rice starts to absorb some of the liquid.
Assembling and Baking:
- Fill the pepper halves: Spoon the meat and rice mixture into each pepper half, filling them generously.
- Arrange in the baking dish: Place the stuffed peppers in the prepared baking dish.
- Add water (optional): Pour about 1/2 cup of water into the bottom of the baking dish to prevent the peppers from drying out.
- Bake: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 45 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 15 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the filling is heated through. If you're using cheese, sprinkle it on during the last 5 minutes of baking.
Tips for the Perfect Stuffed Green Peppers:
- Don't overfill the peppers: Overfilling can prevent them from cooking evenly.
- Adjust seasoning to your taste: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices.
- Add vegetables: Consider adding other vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers to the filling for extra nutrients and flavor.
- Make it vegetarian: Substitute ground beef with lentils, beans, or crumbled tofu for a vegetarian option.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve your stuffed green peppers hot, as a complete and satisfying meal. They're delicious on their own or accompanied by a simple side salad or crusty bread.
Enjoy your homemade stuffed green peppers! They are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
