Vegetarian Stuffed Peppers and Tomatoes

I remember my Mom making stuffed peppers when I was a teenager so not much has changed over the years! The version Mom served contained minced beef but I really like the flavors of this recipe. Bell peppers are the Christmas ornaments of the vegetable world! They are excellent sources of vitamin C and vitamin A. For atherosclerosis and diabetic heart disease, peppers also contain vitamin B6 and folic acid.

Serves 4

1 green and 1 yellow bell pepper, halved (core and seeds removed)
2 large tomatoes, halved and pulp scooped out (reserve for stuffing)
2 cloves finely minced garlic
1 onion, finely chopped
1/2 cup chicken stock
2 cups cooked rice
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 tablespoons parsley, chopped
1/4 cup dried cranberries
1/4 cup sultana raisins
2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil or 2 teaspoons dried basil
salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
1/2 cup bread crumbs

Preheat the oven to 180c (350f). Lightly grease a shallow baking dish large enough to hold pepper and tomato halves in a single layer. Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat and add chopped onion and garlic. Cook, stirring until soft and then add chicken stock, rice, cranberries and raisins. Stir until combined and heated through. Transfer the rice mixture to a bowl and add chopped tomato pulp, parsley, basil, salt and pepper. Mix well. Lightly fill each pepper half with the rice mixture. Combine cheese and breadcrumbs. Sprinkle the tops with the bread crumbs and bake for 30 to 40 minutes, or until crumbs are lightly browned and peppers are al dente.

The Culinary Chase’s Note: With this pretty presentation of colors, how can one resist eating these peppers!

2 Comments

  1. jh on February 6, 2009 at 22:13

    Beautiful recipe. I often remember my own mother making stuffed peppers with rice and ground beef. since becoming a vegetarian I haven’t had them but I didn’t think to make them veggie. Thanks for the inspiration.

    jh
    boda weight loss



  2. The Culinary Chase on February 9, 2009 at 12:43

    Thanks JH!