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Stuffed Bell Peppers

Stuffed bell peppers are a comforting dish featuring hollowed-out peppers filled with a savory mixture of cooked rice, ground meat or lentils, and aromatic spices. Roasted until tender and bubbling, the peppers develop a slightly caramelized exterior while the filling remains hot and flavorful inside, creating a colorful and hearty presentation.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Homemade
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients
  

  • 4 bell peppers Choose firm, shiny peppers
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil For sautéing and drizzling
  • 1 onion Chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic Minced
  • 1 cup cooked rice Use day-old rice for best texture
  • 0.5 pound ground beef Or use lentils for a vegetarian version
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 0.5 teaspoon cumin
  • 0.5 cup tomato sauce Optional for moisture and tang

Equipment

  • Baking dish
  • Skillet
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Spoon or scoop

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
  2. Slice off the tops of the bell peppers and carefully remove the seeds and membranes, creating hollow shells.
  3. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat; add chopped onions and minced garlic, cooking until fragrant and translucent, about 3 minutes.
  4. Add ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
  5. Mix cooked rice, spices (paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper), and tomato sauce into the skillet with the beef mixture. Stir until well combined and heated through.
  6. Spoon the filling mixture into each hollowed pepper, pressing down gently to pack the filling evenly.
  7. Place the stuffed peppers upright in a baking dish. Drizzle a little olive oil over each for extra flavor and moisture.
  8. Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, until the peppers are tender and the filling is bubbling and slightly browned on top.
  9. Remove from oven and let rest for about 5 minutes. The peppers will be hot and the filling set and flavorful.
  10. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired, and enjoy the vibrant, hearty flavors of these stuffed peppers.