Stuffed Peppers Just Like Grandma’s! 🌶️❤️

Bring a taste of tradition to your table with this stuffed pepper recipe. It’s packed with hearty flavors, a savory filling, and a comforting tomato broth that feels just like a warm hug from Grandma.

Ingredients

For the Stuffed Peppers:

• 4 large bell peppers: Tops cut off and deseeded 🌶️
• 300 g ground meat: Beef, pork, or a mix 🍖
• 1 onion: Finely chopped 🧅
• 2 garlic cloves: Minced 🧄
• 100 g cooked rice: Long-grain or your favorite 🍚
• 1 egg: Lightly beaten 🥚
• Salt and pepper: To taste 🧂
• 1 tsp paprika powder: Adds depth 🌶️

For the Sauce:

• 1 can chopped tomatoes (400 g) 🍅
• 200 ml vegetable or beef broth 🥣
• A bit of oil: For sautéing 🫒

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Peppers

1. Wash the bell peppers thoroughly and slice off the tops. Remove the seeds and membranes from the inside, creating hollow “cups” for the filling.

Step 2: Cook the Meat Mixture

1. Heat a drizzle of oil in a pan over medium heat.
2. Sauté the chopped onion and garlic until fragrant and translucent (about 2-3 minutes).
3. Add the ground meat and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika.

Step 3: Make the Filling

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked meat mixture, cooked rice, and the beaten egg. Mix until everything is well incorporated.

Step 4: Stuff the Peppers

1. Carefully spoon the meat-rice mixture into each hollowed bell pepper, pressing lightly to pack the filling.
2. Arrange the stuffed peppers upright in a large pot or a deep baking dish.

Step 5: Create the Sauce

1. In a separate bowl, combine the chopped tomatoes and broth. Pour the mixture over and around the stuffed peppers.

Step 6: Cook to Perfection

• On the Stovetop: Cover the pot with a lid and simmer over medium heat for 30-40 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the filling is cooked through.
• In the Oven (Optional): For a golden crust, transfer the cooked peppers to a preheated oven at 180°C (356°F) and bake for 10 minutes.

Serving Suggestions

• Spoon some of the tomato sauce over the peppers before serving for added flavor.
• Pair with a crusty bread or a side of mashed potatoes to soak up the delicious sauce.

Tips for Success

1. Pepper Selection: Use bell peppers that are roughly the same size to ensure even cooking.
2. Rice Tips: Leftover rice works perfectly for this recipe, saving time and adding texture.
3. Customization: Add chopped herbs, such as parsley or dill, to the filling for an extra burst of flavor.
4. Vegetarian Option: Swap the meat for lentils or crumbled tofu, and use vegetable broth for a plant-based version.

FAQs

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes! Stuff the peppers and store them (uncooked) in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When ready to cook, simply add the sauce and proceed with the recipe.

How do I store leftovers?

Place any leftover peppers in an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.

Can I freeze stuffed peppers?

Absolutely! Cool the cooked peppers completely, then freeze individually in airtight containers. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat thoroughly before serving.

What other fillings can I use?

You can experiment with quinoa, barley, or even shredded vegetables like zucchini and carrots for a unique twist.

Enjoy this Stuffed Pepper Recipe that’s packed with love, tradition, and unbeatable flavor. It’s a comforting meal perfect for weeknights or family gatherings! 🌶️🍴