If you're looking to tantalize your taste buds with a dish that bursts with flavor and cultural richness, look no further than Middle Eastern Stuffed Bell Peppers, or Koosa Mih Shee! This delightful recipe combines tender bell peppers with a savory filling of ground meat and aromatic spices, all enveloped in a luscious tomato sauce. Perfect for a family dinner or a special gathering, these stuffed peppers are not only visually stunning but also incredibly satisfying. Get ready to impress your guests and elevate your culinary skills with this unforgettable dish that promises to transport you straight to the heart of the Middle East!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs
Total Time: 1 hrs 20 mins
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 bell peppers
- 1 cup rice, uncooked
- 1 pound ground lamb or beef
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups tomato sauce
Instructions
- Prepare the bell peppers by washing them thoroughly. Cut the tops off and carefully remove the seeds and membranes, creating a hollow cavity for stuffing.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the uncooked rice, ground lamb or beef, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, ground cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix the ingredients thoroughly until well combined.
- Carefully stuff each bell pepper with the meat and rice mixture, filling them to about 3/4 full, as the rice will expand during cooking.
- In a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven, arrange the stuffed peppers standing upright. Pour the tomato sauce evenly over and around the peppers, ensuring they are partially covered.
- Cover the skillet with a tight-fitting lid and bring the sauce to a gentle simmer over medium-low heat.
- Cook the stuffed peppers for approximately 50-60 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked and the meat is tender. Check periodically and add a little water if the sauce becomes too thick.
- Remove from heat and let the peppers rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and makes the peppers easier to plate.
- Serve hot, spooning additional sauce over the peppers. Optionally, garnish with fresh parsley or mint for added freshness.
Tips
- Choose the Right Peppers: Opt for firm, vibrant bell peppers that can stand upright without toppling over. Red, yellow, or green peppers all work beautifully, each adding its unique flavor profile.
- Customize the Filling: Feel free to experiment with the filling! You can substitute ground lamb with beef, turkey, or even a plant-based meat alternative for a lighter option. Adding chopped vegetables like zucchini or carrots can enhance the texture and nutrition.
- Soak the Rice: For extra fluffy rice, consider soaking it in water for about 30 minutes before mixing it with the meat. This helps the rice absorb moisture during cooking, ensuring it cooks evenly.
- Watch the Sauce: Keep an eye on the tomato sauce while cooking. If it thickens too much, add a splash of water or broth to maintain a nice consistency and prevent the peppers from drying out.
- Rest Before Serving: Let the stuffed peppers rest for 5-10 minutes after cooking. This resting period allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making each bite even more delicious.
- Garnish for Flair: Don’t forget to garnish your dish! Fresh parsley or mint adds a pop of color and a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the stuffed peppers.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 90mg
