Polneti Piperki | FoodieAtlas

Ingredients

8 large bell peppers (any color)
1 cup rice
1 lb (450 g) ground beef or pork
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup tomato sauce
1 cup grated cheese (optional, for topping)
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
Salt and black pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

Prepare the Bell Peppers

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Wash and cut the tops off the bell peppers. Remove the seeds and membranes. Set aside.

Cook the Rice

Cook the rice according to package instructions, but slightly undercook it since it will cook further in the oven. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Filling

Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.

Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute.

Add the ground meat to the skillet and cook until browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat.

Stir in the cooked rice, tomato sauce, paprika, oregano, basil, salt, and black pepper. Mix well and cook for another 5 minutes to combine the flavors. Remove from heat.

Stuff the Peppers

Spoon the filling mixture into each bell pepper, packing it down slightly. Place the stuffed peppers in a baking dish.

Bake

If using cheese, sprinkle it on top of the stuffed peppers.

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.

Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the cheese (if used) is melted and bubbly.

Serve

Garnish with fresh chopped parsley if desired.