Ingredients

Filling

1.3 kilograms (2.9 pounds) ground pork
3/4 cup uncooked round grain white rice
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 1

Prepare the Rice and Filling

First, cook the rice until it is fully done and drain any excess water. Set the rice aside.

Next, grate the carrots and finely chop the onions for the filling. Prepare the ground pork in a large mixing bowl.

Step 2

Prepare the Peppers

Carefully cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds. Make sure to keep them intact for the stuffing.

Step 3

Sauté the Vegetables

Heat vegetable oil in a pot or frying pan. Add the grated carrots and chopped onions, and sauté until they are golden and tender. This should take about 5-7 minutes.

Step 4

Mix the Filling

In a large bowl, combine the ground pork, cooked rice, and half of the sautéed onions and carrots. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5

Prepare the Sauce

Layer the remaining sautéed onions and carrots in the pot. Add the homemade tomato sauce (or the mixture of tomato paste with water) and bring it to a simmer. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring frequently.

Step 6

Stuff the Peppers

Fill each bell pepper with the pork and rice mixture, then place them upright in the pot. Pour the tomato sauce over the stuffed peppers and add 500 milliliters (2 cups) of water.

Step 7

Cook the Peppers

Cover and cook on medium heat for about 30 minutes. The peppers should become tender. About 10 minutes before they are done, form meatballs with the remaining filling and place them on top of the peppers. Cover and cook together for an additional 10-15 minutes.

Servings

When it comes to serving these stunning stuffed peppers, the possibilities are endless! For a **classic touch**, serve them with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top. 🌿 Want to elevate your plate? Pair them with a side of crusty bread to soak up every bit of that flavorful tomato sauce. 🥖

**For a festive flair**, consider serving these stuffed peppers with a side of fluffy couscous or quinoa. These options not only enhance the dish but also provide a nutritious balance. 🌈 If you’re feeling adventurous, add a dollop of sour cream or yogurt on each serving for that creamy contrast! 🥄

Don't forget, these stuffed peppers make excellent leftovers. The flavors only get better with time. Store them in an airtight container and enjoy them the next day! Perfect for lunch or a quick dinner. 🍽️

Equipment

Variations

If you're looking for a **gluten-free option** for these stuffed peppers, simply replace the rice with quinoa or use cauliflower rice. Both alternatives provide the same texture without the gluten! 🌾

For a **vegan variation**, swap out the ground pork for a plant-based meat substitute like lentils or mushrooms. Also, replace the tomato sauce with a rich vegetable broth mixed with herbs for extra flavor. 🌱 Both variations ensure no one misses out on the deliciousness!

Faq

  • What type of rice should I use for stuffed peppers?

    Medium-grain white rice is ideal due to its sticky consistency, but you can also use brown rice for a healthier twist. Just keep in mind that brown rice will require a longer cooking time.

  • How do I know when the peppers are cooked perfectly?

    You're looking for the peppers to be soft yet still hold their shape. Typically, it takes around 30 minutes of cooking in the sauce for them to achieve that delicious balance!

  • Can I make the filling ahead of time?

    Absolutely! You can prepare the filling the night before and store it in the fridge. This saves time on the day you plan to make your stuffed peppers.

  • How can I prevent the peppers from falling over while cooking?

    If you find that your peppers are top-heavy, you can slice a tiny bit off the bottom to create a flat base. This helps them stand up straight!

  • What’s the best way to store leftovers?

    Store any leftover stuffed peppers in an airtight container in the fridge. They will stay fresh for about 3-4 days.

  • Can I freeze the stuffed peppers?

    Yes! Stuffed peppers freeze well. Just make sure they cool completely before wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and storing them in a freezer bag. They can last up to 3 months in the freezer.

Nutrition facts

Stuffed Bell Peppers in Tomato Sauce Recipe
Recipe Yield:6 servings
Calories:Approximate calorie range per serving.
Calories (Min - Max):420 - 520
Total Fat:28g
Saturated Fat:10g
Protein:35g
Total Carbohydrate:35g
Total Sugars:5g