If you’re looking for a hearty and delicious meal that combines fresh vegetables with flavorful meat, this Oven-Baked Stuffed Peppers recipe is perfect for you. Known as "Etli Biber Dolması" in Turkish cuisine, this dish is a classic that brings together tender bell peppers filled with a savory mixture of minced meat, rice, and aromatic spices.
Baked in the oven until perfectly tender, these stuffed peppers are tasty and also a comforting dish that’s great for family dinners or special occasions.
Follow along with this easy step-by-step recipe to create your own batch of delicious stuffed peppers!
Ingredients:
- 200 grams medium-fat double-ground minced meat
- Half a bunch of parsley (dill can also be added) 🌿
- 2 medium onions (finely chopped) 🧅
- 1 cup of rice (washed several times) 🍚
- 1 teaspoon dried mint, basil, cumin, thyme, chili flakes, black pepper 🌶️
- Salt to taste (I used 1 teaspoon) 🧂
- 1 tea glass of olive oil or vegetable oil 🫒
- Half a tea glass of bulgur
- 1 tea glass of water 💧
- 2 medium tomatoes, peeled and blended or finely chopped 🍅
Preparing the Filling
In a large bowl, mix the minced meat, parsley (or dill if you prefer), finely chopped onions, washed rice, dried mint, basil, cumin, thyme, chili flakes, black pepper, salt, olive oil or vegetable oil, bulgur, water, and blended tomatoes until well combined.
Preparing the Peppers Carefully remove the tops of the bell peppers by gently pressing with your fingers, then cut off the stems and the seedy parts but keep them aside to use as lids. Clean out any remaining seeds inside the peppers.
Stuffing the Peppers Using a spoon, fill the peppers with the prepared meat and rice mixture, leaving about a finger-width space at the top to allow the rice and bulgur to expand during cooking.
Place small cubes of butter on top of each stuffed pepper and cover them with the reserved pepper tops.
Preparing for the Oven and Baking Arrange the stuffed peppers in a baking tray, standing upright if possible. Prepare a sauce by mixing tomato paste with bone broth or regular water, and pour it over the stuffed peppers. Adjust the water level so that it does not cover the tops of the peppers.
Cover the tray with aluminum foil or baking paper and place it in a preheated oven at 160°C (320°F).
Baking Process After 30 minutes, remove the aluminum foil or baking paper and return the tray to the oven. Continue baking until the tops are nicely browned.
Bake for a total of about 1 hour; 30 minutes covered and 30 minutes uncovered.
Note: Cooking time may vary depending on your oven, so make sure to check periodically.
To check if they are done, use a fork to test the filling. If the inside is fully cooked, remove them from the oven.
Serving Once the peppers have cooled slightly, they are ready to serve. The taste is fantastic, and you’ll forget all other stuffed peppers you’ve ever eaten! Enjoy your meal! 👌
Oven-Baked Stuffed Peppers with Meat is a versatile dish that can be served as a main course or a side dish, depending on your preference.
Its rich flavors and satisfying texture make it a favorite in many households. Whether you’re cooking for a family gathering or simply looking for a comforting meal, this recipe is sure to impress. Give it a try, and don’t forget to share your delicious results with friends and family!
You see we added a lot of spices. Looking to keep your spices organized while cooking? Check out the Orii 20 Jar Bamboo Spice Rack with Spices Included.
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