Stuffed peppers are a delightful and comforting dish enjoyed in many cultures across the world. In Lebanese cuisine, the combination of vibrant peppers with flavorful seasoned filling creates a dish that is both hearty and satisfying. Today, we will be preparing a version of this classic dish with a Lebanese twist – introducing our recipe for Lebanese Stuffed Peppers.
Ingredients:
– 6 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 cup long-grain white rice
– 1 pound ground beef or lamb
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 tomatoes, diced
– 2 tablespoons tomato paste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1 teaspoon allspice
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Wash the bell peppers, then cut off the tops and remove the seeds and membranes from inside. Set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the white rice, ground meat, chopped onion, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, olive oil, cinnamon, allspice, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything together until well combined.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with the meat and rice mixture, packing it in tightly but not too firmly to allow room for the rice to expand during cooking.
5. Place the stuffed peppers in a deep oven-safe dish, arranging them upright to hold their shape.
6. In a separate bowl, mix the chicken or vegetable broth with any remaining tomato paste and pour the mixture over the stuffed peppers in the dish. This will help keep the peppers moist during cooking.
7. Cover the dish with foil or a lid and bake in the preheated oven for about 1 hour. Check the peppers after 45 minutes, and if they appear to be drying out, add a little more broth to the bottom of the dish.
8. Once the peppers are fork-tender and the rice is fully cooked, remove the dish from the oven.
9. Sprinkle the freshly chopped parsley over the stuffed peppers for a pop of color and added freshness.
10. Serve the Lebanese Stuffed Peppers hot, either as a main dish on their own or accompanied by a side salad and some yogurt on the side for a complete meal.
These Lebanese Stuffed Peppers are a wonderful way to experience the flavors of Lebanon in the comfort of your own home. The aromatic spices combined with the tender bell peppers and savory filling create a dish that is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy the warm, comforting embrace of these stuffed peppers as you savor the unique and delicious taste of Lebanese cuisine.
