Punjena Paprika (Stuffed Bell Peppers)

 

Punjena Paprika, or Stuffed Bell Peppers, is a traditional Balkan dish that’s hearty, comforting, and complete of taste. It typically capabilities bell peppers filled with a mixture of meat and rice, then simmered in a savory tomato sauce. Here’s a clean and conventional recipe:

 

Ingredients (Serves 4)

For the peppers:

four-6 massive bell peppers (any coloration), tops cut off and seeds eliminated

250g (½ lb) floor pork or a mix of red meat and pork

100g (½ cup) rice, rinsed

1 small onion, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 egg

1 tsp paprika (sweet or smoked)

Salt and pepper, to flavor

Fresh parsley, chopped (non-obligatory)

For the sauce:

400g (14 oz.) canned tomatoes or tomato puree

1 cup water or vegetable broth

1 tbsp oil

1 tsp sugar (optionally available, to lessen acidity)

Salt and pepper, to flavor

Instructions

1. Prepare the filling:

In a bowl, mix the ground meat, rice, chopped onion, garlic, egg, paprika, salt, pepper, and parsley till well combined.

2. Stuff the peppers:

Fill every pepper with the beef mixture, leaving a little area at the top because the rice will amplify because it cooks.

3. Make the sauce:

In a big pot, warmness the oil, upload the canned tomatoes, water, sugar, salt, and pepper. Stir properly and produce to a mild simmer.

4. Cook the peppers:

 Place the crammed peppers upright in the sauce. Cover and simmer on low heat for forty five–60 mins, till the peppers are tender and the rice is cooked.

Alternatively, you may bake them in an oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 45 minutes, included with foil.

5. Serve:

Serve warm with a dollop of bitter cream or yogurt on top, and a slice of crusty bread on the aspect.

Tips:

For a vegetarian version, alternative the beef with lentils, chickpeas, or a mix of sautéed mushrooms and rice.

To upload extra flavor, you may sauté the onion and garlic in the sauce before adding the tomatoes.

Leftovers taste even better the next day, as the flavors hold to meld.

If you need, I can also provide you with a lighter, vegetable-heavy model that maintains it hearty however plenty lower in calories—ideal if you love a veggie-forward meal. Do you want me to try this.