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Brazilian-style stuffed peppers are a delicious and hearty dish that combines colorful bell peppers with a flavorful rice and meat filling. This traditional recipe is popular across Brazil and is perfect for family dinners or special occasions. The dish features vibrant peppers filled with seasoned ground meat, rice, and aromatic spices, baked until tender and juicy.
Ingredients Needed
- 4 large bell peppers (any color)
- 1 pound ground beef or ground turkey
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tomato, diced
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley or cilantro
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup grated cheese (optional)
- Olive oil for cooking
Preparation Steps
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Carefully cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. Lightly brush the peppers with olive oil and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until fragrant and translucent. Add the ground meat and cook until browned. Stir in the diced tomato, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 5 minutes to blend the flavors.
In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, cooked meat mixture, and chopped parsley or cilantro. Mix well. If using cheese, fold it into the mixture for extra richness.
Stuff each pepper with the rice and meat filling, pressing gently to pack the filling inside. Place the stuffed peppers upright in a baking dish. If desired, sprinkle additional cheese on top of each pepper.
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the peppers are tender. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes to melt the cheese if used. Serve hot, garnished with extra parsley or cilantro if desired.
Enjoying the Dish
This Brazilian-style stuffed peppers recipe is versatile and can be customized with different fillings or spices. It pairs well with a fresh salad or a side of black beans. The combination of tender peppers, savory filling, and melted cheese makes it a comforting and colorful meal that highlights Brazilian flavors.