Peppers stuffed with cabbage and bacon rolls
Stuffed bell peppers with cabbage and bacon rolls
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 10 minutes
Number of servings: 6
This recipe for stuffed bell peppers with cabbage and bacon rolls is a true delicacy, combining the intense flavors of cabbage with the irresistible taste of bacon. The origins of this recipe are rooted in the traditions of homemakers who used garden ingredients to create nourishing meals full of flavor and color. Get ready to impress family and friends with this special dish, perfect for a family meal or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
- 1 cabbage (about 2 kg)
- 6 large bell peppers
- 5 ripe tomatoes
- 2 medium onions
- 1 large carrot
- 1 head of garlic
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- Bay leaves, 2-3 pieces
- Fresh dill, for serving
- 200 ml oil (for frying and sautéing)
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 6 slices of bacon
Preparation:
1. Preparing the cabbage:
Start by washing the cabbage well. Cut it into thin strips, being careful not to make it too small. Place the cabbage in a large bowl and add a little salt, gently rubbing it to activate its juices. Let the cabbage sit for 10-15 minutes, this step helps improve its texture and flavor.
2. Preparing the bacon:
Cut the bacon slices into thin strips. In a pan, add the oil and, when hot, add the bacon. Fry it on both sides until crispy and golden. Remove it from the pan, roll it up, and secure it with toothpicks to maintain its shape.
3. Sautéing the vegetables:
In the same pan, add the chopped onion. Sauté the onion in the remaining oil until it becomes translucent. Add the grated carrot, stirring constantly to prevent sticking. Once the onion is sautéed, add the cabbage and mix well. Cover the pan and let the cabbage cook on low heat for about 30 minutes. Add pepper and bay leaves, stirring occasionally. The cabbage will release enough juice, so there’s no need to add water.
4. Preparing the bell peppers:
Wash the bell peppers and cut off the tops around the stems with a sharp knife. Using a spoon, remove the cores and inner membranes to create a generous space for the filling.
5. Filling the bell peppers:
When the cabbage has softened and absorbed the flavors of the vegetables, remove it from the heat and let it cool slightly. Fill the bell peppers with the hot cabbage, adding a bacon roll and a bit of finely chopped garlic for extra flavor to each.
6. Baking:
Place the stuffed bell peppers in a baking dish. Use the remaining cabbage to fill the gaps between the peppers. Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. In a separate pot, peel the tomatoes (you can blanch them for easier peeling), then chop them finely and mix them with salt and pepper. Pour the tomato mixture over the peppers and cabbage. Bake for 20 minutes.
7. Finalizing the dish:
After 20 minutes, remove the dish from the oven and drizzle the peppers with the juice of one lemon. Sprinkle chopped dill on top and return to the oven for another 10 minutes. The peppers will become slightly crispy, but do not leave them too long to avoid becoming mushy.
Practical tips:
- Choosing bell peppers: Select peppers that are meaty and without defects. This will ensure a tasty filling and pleasant texture.
- Variations: You can also add other vegetables to the filling, such as mushrooms or olives, to diversify the flavors.
- Serving: These stuffed bell peppers can be served with warm polenta and sour cream, which adds a creamy and delicious contrast.
- Recommended drinks: A good drink to complement this dish is a dry white wine, which will balance the rich flavors of the bacon and cabbage.
Nutritional information:
This recipe is rich in fiber due to the cabbage and vegetables used, providing a considerable nutritional intake. Bacon, while delicious, adds a higher fat content, so it is recommended to consume it in moderation. Stuffed bell peppers are an excellent option for a hearty meal, while also being a culinary experience full of flavor.
This recipe for stuffed bell peppers with cabbage and bacon rolls will not only delight your taste buds but will also bring a touch of nostalgia, reminding you of the warm and welcoming meals at your mother's house in the countryside. Try it and enjoy every bite!
Ingredients: 1 cabbage (2 kg) 6 large bell peppers 5 tomatoes 2 onions 1 carrot 1 head of garlic salt pepper bay leaves fresh dill 200 ml oil juice from 1 lemon 6 slices of bacon
