Stuffed Peppers with beans

This recipe features delicious Stuffed Bell Peppers, a satisfying and flavorful dish that combines the vibrant colors of bell peppers with a hearty filling. These stuffed peppers are packed with nutritious ingredients, including stewed tomatoes, brown rice, green onions, cooked black beans, and a touch of spicy flavor from crushed red pepper flakes. The combination of textures and flavors creates a mouthwatering meal that is both visually appealing and satisfying. Whether you’re looking for a tasty vegetarian option or simply want to enjoy a wholesome and flavorful dish, these Stuffed Bell Peppers are sure to impress. Let’s dive into the recipe and create a delightful culinary experience!

Serves 2

ALLERGIES:

• SF (Shellfish)
• GF (Gluten)
• DF (Dairy)
• EF (Egg)
• NF (Nuts)

INGREDIENTS:

• 2 large red or green bell peppers
• 2 cups stewed tomatoes
• 1/3 cup brown rice
• 2 tbsp. hot water
• 2 green onions
• 8 ounces cooked black beans
• 1/4 tsp. crushed red pepper flakes

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut off the tops of the bell peppers and discard the seeds and membrane.
3. Place the bell peppers cut-side down in a baking dish and cover.
4. Bake the bell peppers in the preheated oven for 15 minutes to soften them.
5. In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of stewed tomatoes, brown rice, thinly sliced green onions, cooked black beans, and crushed red pepper flakes. Mix well to combine.
6. Remove the baked bell peppers from the oven and drain any excess liquid.
7. Turn the bell peppers cut-side up and spoon the tomato and bean mixture evenly into each pepper, filling them to the top.
8. Arrange the stuffed bell peppers tightly in the slow cooker to prevent them from falling over during cooking.
9. Slowly pour the remaining 1 cup of stewed tomatoes between the stuffed bell peppers in the slow cooker.
10. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 4 hours, allowing the flavors to meld together and the peppers to become tender.
11. Once cooked, carefully remove the stuffed bell peppers from the slow cooker and arrange them on a serving plate.
12. Garnish with chopped fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro, if desired.
13. Serve the stuffed bell peppers as a delicious and healthy meal for two.

NOTE:

• Bell Pepper Selection: Choose large, firm bell peppers with vibrant colors. You can use either red or green bell peppers based on your preference. Red bell peppers tend to be slightly sweeter, while green bell peppers have a slightly more bitter taste.
• Preparing the Bell Peppers: Cut off the tops of the bell peppers and discard the seeds and membrane. This step ensures that the peppers are ready to be stuffed with the filling. By baking the peppers before stuffing them, you help soften them and enhance their flavors.
• Cooking Variation: If you prefer a softer texture for the bell peppers, you can parboil them in boiling water for a few minutes instead of baking them. This will help reduce the baking time in the slow cooker.
• Serving Suggestions: Once cooked, carefully remove the stuffed bell peppers from the slow cooker and arrange them on a serving plate. Garnish with chopped fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for added freshness and flavor. These stuffed bell peppers make a satisfying and complete meal on their own, but you can also serve them with a side salad or crusty bread for a more substantial meal.