Introduction:
Stuffed capsicum, also known as stuffed bell peppers, is a delightful dish that brings together the vibrant colors and rich flavors of bell peppers with a savory filling. This recipe elevates the humble capsicum to a gourmet level, making it an excellent choice for a hearty and visually appealing meal. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a home cook looking to impress, this stuffed capsicum recipe is sure to be a hit at your dining table.
Ingredients:
- Bell peppers (any color) – 6 medium-sized
- Ground meat (beef or turkey) – 1 lb
- Rice – 1 cup (cooked)
- Onion – 1 large (finely chopped)
- Garlic – 3 cloves (minced)
- Tomato – 2 medium-sized (diced)
- Tomato sauce – 1/2 cup
- Olive oil – 2 tablespoons
- Mixed herbs (oregano, thyme, basil) – 1 teaspoon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Grated cheese – 1 cup (cheddar or mozzarella)
- Fresh parsley – for garnish
Instructions:
Prepare the Bell Peppers:
Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes.
Rinse the peppers under cold water and set them aside.
Cook the Rice:
Cook the rice according to package instructions until it’s tender and set it aside.
Prepare the Filling:
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
Add chopped onions and minced garlic, sautéing until they become translucent.
Add ground meat and cook until browned. Drain excess fat if needed.
Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, mixed herbs, salt, and pepper. Allow the mixture to simmer for 10-15 minutes until it thickens.
Combine the Filling with Rice:
Once the meat mixture is ready, combine it with the cooked rice in a large mixing bowl. Stir until well mixed.
Stuff the Bell Peppers:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Stuff each bell pepper with the meat and rice mixture, pressing it down gently to pack the filling.
Place the stuffed peppers in a baking dish.
Cheese Topping:
Sprinkle the grated cheese generously over the stuffed peppers, covering the tops evenly.
Bake to Perfection:
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the peppers are tender.
Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until the cheese turns golden brown and bubbly.
Garnish and Serve:
Once out of the oven, let the stuffed peppers rest for a few minutes.
Garnish with fresh parsley for a burst of color and added freshness.
Serve Warm:
Serve the stuffed capsicum warm, and enjoy the flavorful combination of tender bell peppers, savory filling, and gooey melted cheese.
Conclusion:
This stuffed capsicum recipe is a symphony of flavors and textures, combining the sweetness of bell peppers with the savory goodness of the meat and rice filling. Perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests, these stuffed capsicums are a crowd-pleaser that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Experiment with different herbs and spices, or even add a hint of chili for an extra kick. Elevate your culinary skills and treat yourself to a delightful, homemade meal with this delicious stuffed capsicum recipe.
