If you’re looking for a hearty and visually stunning dish, then Stuffed Peppers should be at the top of your list. This recipe serves invites you to embrace a vibrant mix of bell peppers, spices, rice, and vegetables. Whether you opt for a combination of green, red, orange, or yellow peppers, this dish promises a symphony of flavors and colors that will delight your taste buds.
SERVES 4
INGREDIENTS:
- 4 large bell peppers
- ½ teaspoon ground chipotle pepper
- ½ teaspoon hot Mexican chili powder
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 (15-ounce) can fire-roasted diced tomatoes with garlic
- 1 cup cooked long-grain rice
- 1 ½ cups broccoli florets
- ½ cup diced onion
- ½ cup water
INSTRUCTIONS:
- Prepare the Peppers: To kickstart this culinary adventure, begin by preparing the bell peppers. Carefully cut the tops off each pepper to create a cap. Be sure to remove the seeds from both the cap and the inside of the pepper.
- Set Up the Slow Cooker Stage: Now, it’s time to create the stage for your stuffed peppers. Place the peppers open-side up in a 4- or 6-quart slow cooker. These vibrant vessels are ready to be filled with a delightful mixture.
- Create the Flavorful Mixture: In a medium bowl, combine the ground chipotle pepper, hot Mexican chili powder, freshly ground black pepper, and salt. This spice blend will infuse your dish with layers of flavor. Add in the fire-roasted diced tomatoes with garlic, cooked long-grain rice, broccoli florets, and diced onion. Stir everything together until the flavors meld into a harmonious mixture.
- Fill the Peppers: It’s time to fill those waiting peppers! Spoon the flavorful mixture into each pepper until they are generously filled to the top. Once filled, cap each pepper with its lid.
- Add Moisture: To ensure a perfect result, pour ½ cup of water into the bottom of the slow cooker insert. This will help create a moist and tender environment for your stuffed peppers.
- Cook to Perfection: Cover your slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 6 hours. During this time, the magic will happen. Your peppers will absorb the rich flavors, and the ingredients will meld into a delightful medley.
A Fiesta of Flavors and Colors:
Stuffed Peppers are a feast for both the eyes and the palate. With a combination of bell peppers in various colors, you’re not only treated to a diverse visual display but also a range of subtle flavor differences. The spices add a delightful kick, while the fire-roasted diced tomatoes infuse the dish with a smoky, garlicky undertone.
A Versatile Delight:
This dish is incredibly versatile. It can be served as a satisfying main course for dinner, or you can prepare it for a special occasion when you want to impress your guests with a stunning and flavorful dish. Plus, it’s a wonderful way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet.
Easy Cooking with a Slow Cooker:
One of the great aspects of this recipe is the use of a slow cooker. It allows you to set it and forget it, making meal preparation a breeze. As the peppers slow cook, they absorb all the delicious flavors, resulting in a tender and flavorful dish.
A Culinary Journey:
Stuffed Peppers are a delightful journey through colors and flavors. Whether you’re enjoying them as a family dinner or serving them at a special gathering, this dish is sure to leave a lasting impression. With a symphony of spices, vegetables, and the natural sweetness of bell peppers, it’s a recipe that celebrates the joy of cooking and sharing delicious food with loved ones.