Stuffed Red Peppers Recipe

Cook Time: 100 minutes

Stuffed Bell Peppers with Ground Beef and Rice

Yields: 6 servings

Ingredients

• 4 cups water
• 2 cups brown rice
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 onion, diced
• cup chopped mushrooms (or to taste)
• 3 cloves garlic, chopped
• 1 (26 ounce) jar tomato sauce
• 1 (16 ounce) can diced tomatoes
• 1 (6 ounce) can tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and ground black pepper to taste
• 6 red bell peppers, tops and seeds removed
• cup grated Parmesan cheese (or to taste)

Directions

1. Bring water and brown rice to a boil in a saucepan. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed (about 40 minutes). Once done, transfer the cooked rice into a large mixing bowl.
2. Preheat your oven to 350F (175C). While the oven is heating, place a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Break the ground beef into small pieces and add it to the skillet. Add the diced onion, chopped mushrooms, and garlic. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the beef is fully browned, about 7 to 10 minutes.
4. Once the beef mixture is ready, transfer it into the bowl with the cooked rice. Stir in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and Italian seasoning. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Prepare your red bell peppers by placing them in a baking dish. Spoon a generous amount of the rice and beef mixture into each bell pepper, packing it well.
6. Place the baking dish in the oven and bake until the bell peppers are tender, about 1 hour.
7. Once cooked, remove from the oven and sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the stuffed peppers just before serving.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 504
• Total Fat: 13g (16% DV)
• Saturated Fat: 5g (23% DV)
• Cholesterol: 50mg (17% DV)
• Sodium: 1095mg (48% DV)
• Total Carbohydrate: 74g (27% DV)
• Dietary Fiber: 9g (32% DV)
• Total Sugars: 17g
• Protein: 24g (48% DV)
• Vitamin C: 176mg (195% DV)
• Calcium: 143mg (11% DV)
• Iron: 7mg (39% DV)
• Potassium: 1442mg (31% DV)

Stuffed Red Peppers are a delicious and hearty meal that has been cherished in many cultures for centuries. They combine a variety of flavorful ingredients, such as ground beef, rice, and tomatoes, all encased in a tender red bell pepper. This dish offers a perfect balance of textures and tastes, making it a favorite for many home cooks and chefs alike.

History and Origin

The exact origins of stuffed peppers are difficult to pinpoint, but they have a long and rich history across various cuisines. This dish is most commonly associated with Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, and Eastern European cuisines. From Greece to Hungary, stuffed peppers have been adapted and modified over centuries, each region bringing its unique flavors and fillings to the table. Some trace the dish back to ancient Greece, where stuffed vegetables were common in culinary traditions. In Italy, they are known as "Peperoni Ripieni," and in the Middle East, stuffed peppers are often filled with rice, meat, and aromatic spices.

Regional Variations

Stuffed peppers are found in numerous cuisines, with each region offering its variation of the dish. In Mediterranean countries, such as Greece and Turkey, stuffed peppers are often made with rice, pine nuts, and fresh herbs like dill or mint. In Eastern European countries like Hungary, peppers are stuffed with a mixture of rice, meat, and paprika, giving the dish a distinct, smoky flavor. The American version, as seen in this recipe, often uses ground beef, rice, and tomatoes, making it a comforting and hearty dish perfect for family dinners.

What Sets Stuffed Red Peppers Apart

Stuffed peppers are similar to other stuffed vegetable dishes, such as stuffed zucchinis or tomatoes, but the key difference lies in the use of bell peppers, which add a sweet, slightly tangy flavor when roasted. The choice of red bell peppers also adds a burst of color, making the dish visually appealing. Another distinguishing factor is the versatility of the filling. While most stuffed vegetable dishes feature a single type of meat or grain, stuffed red peppers can be made with a variety of fillings, from ground beef to ground turkey, rice, vegetables, and even quinoa. The combination of savory ingredients and the sweetness of the bell pepper creates a delightful balance not found in many other stuffed dishes.

Where Are Stuffed Red Peppers Typically Served?

Stuffed red peppers are a popular comfort food and are often served as a main dish at family gatherings or dinner parties. They are common in home kitchens, especially during colder months, as they are hearty and satisfying. In many Mediterranean and Eastern European countries, stuffed peppers are a traditional dish served on special occasions or holidays. In the United States, stuffed peppers have become a classic comfort food, often enjoyed during family dinners or as a simple, filling weeknight meal. The dish is also often served with a side of bread or salad to complete the meal.

Interesting Facts About Stuffed Red Peppers

• Red bell peppers are rich in vitamins A and C, making them a nutritious addition to any meal.
• Stuffed peppers are incredibly versatile and can be filled with various ingredients, such as rice, ground meat, beans, or even cheese, allowing for endless variations.
• In some regions, stuffed peppers are served with a tangy tomato sauce or yogurt, which enhances their flavor.
• The practice of stuffing vegetables dates back to ancient times, and stuffed peppers are just one example of this enduring culinary tradition.
• Stuffed peppers can be made ahead of time and frozen, making them a convenient option for meal prep or busy weeks.

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