STUFFED BELL PEPPERS WITH VEGETARIAN FILLING

Introduction

Craving a hearty and flavorful vegetarian meal? Look no further than these stuffed bell peppers! Packed with wholesome ingredients and bursting with flavor, this dish is perfect for a satisfying lunch or dinner. Whether you’re a seasoned vegetarian or simply looking to incorporate more plant-based meals into your diet, this recipe is a must-try.

Ingredients:

Ingredients:

• 4 large bell peppers (any color)
• 1 cup cooked brown rice
• 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 cup corn
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• 1/4 cup chopped green bell pepper
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup salsa
• 1/4 cup shredded vegan cheese (optional)

Instructions:

Preparing the Bell Peppers:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure that the peppers are cooked through when the filling is heated.
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers. To do this, carefully slice across the top of each pepper, creating a lid.
3. Remove the seeds and inner membranes from the peppers. Use a spoon to scoop out the seeds and then carefully wipe away any remaining membranes with a paper towel.

Creating the Flavorful Filling:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked brown rice, black beans, corn, chopped onion, and green bell pepper. These ingredients provide a base for the filling.
2. Add the minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper to the bowl. Stir these spices into the mixture to distribute the flavors evenly.
3. Pour the salsa into the bowl and mix well. The salsa adds a zesty kick to the filling and helps to bind the ingredients together.
4. If desired, fold in the shredded vegan cheese. This is an optional step, but the cheese adds a creamy texture and a rich flavor to the dish.

Stuffing and Baking the Peppers:

1. Spoon the filling into the prepared bell pepper halves, packing it down gently. Fill the peppers as full as possible without overflowing.
2. Place the stuffed peppers in a baking dish. Make sure the peppers are standing upright to prevent the filling from spilling out.
3. If desired, top each pepper with a dollop of salsa and a sprinkle of vegan cheese. This adds an extra layer of flavor and visual appeal.
4. Bake the stuffed peppers in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the filling is heated through.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve the stuffed bell peppers hot with a side salad or a bowl of soup for a complete and satisfying meal.

Tips:

• For extra flavor, add your favorite chopped vegetables to the filling, such as zucchini, carrots, or mushrooms.
• To reduce the cooking time, parboil the bell peppers before stuffing and baking.
• If you prefer a spicier dish, increase the amount of chili powder or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.