Baked bell peppers
Stuffed Peppers in the Oven - A Delicious Recipe for Autumn Days
When it comes to dishes that evoke pleasant memories and unmistakable flavors, stuffed peppers in the oven are certainly a favorite for many. These colorful vegetables not only add a splash of color to the table, but also a wonderful taste, perfect to accompany a variety of main courses. In this recipe, I will guide you step by step in achieving delicious stuffed peppers that can be enjoyed both as a side dish or an appetizer.
Total preparation time: 1 hour
Baking time: 40-45 minutes
Number of servings: 6 servings (12 peppers)
Ingredients:
- 12 healthy, unblemished red peppers
- 12 tablespoons of vinegar
- 12 teaspoons of sunflower oil
- 12 teaspoons of sugar
- 36 peppercorns
- 12 cloves of garlic
- Salt (a pinch between two fingers)
The history of stuffed peppers in the oven is closely linked to vegetable preservation traditions, a popular practice that dates back to ancient times. Peppers, with their juicy flesh and sweet taste, are perfect for being prepared in this simple and delicious way. This recipe can be seen as a way to preserve the flavor of summer for the cold winter days.
Step-by-step preparation:
1. Preparing the peppers: Start by washing the peppers well under a stream of cold water. Make sure they have no blemishes or bruises, as these can affect the taste and texture. Use a sharp knife to remove the stems, being careful not to break the flesh. Once you've removed the stems, shake the peppers to remove the seeds.
2. Preparing the baking dish: Choose a rectangular baking dish that can accommodate the 12 peppers. Place them with the openings facing up, ensuring they stand upright and do not tip over.
3. Stuffing the peppers: Now comes the fun part. In each pepper, add a tablespoon of vinegar, a teaspoon of sugar, a teaspoon of oil, 3 peppercorns, a sliced clove of garlic, and a pinch of salt. You can play around with the amounts of sugar or vinegar, adjusting them to your personal taste.
4. Baking: Preheat the oven to a low temperature. Place the dish in the oven and let the peppers bake for 40-45 minutes. It is important not to let the heat be too high, as the peppers need to soften, not brown.
5. Transferring to jars: Once the peppers are ready, remove the dish from the oven and let them cool slightly. Then, with great care, transfer them to 800g jars. It is essential to keep the liquid from the peppers, so handle them gently.
6. The preservation process: After filling the jars, seal them well. Then, place them in a pot of boiling water and let them boil for 15 minutes. This step is crucial for preserving the peppers, ensuring they are safe for long-term consumption.
7. Cooling: After boiling the jars, carefully remove them from the water and let them cool completely. You can place them on a clean towel to absorb any excess water.
Useful tips:
- Choose peppers of similar sizes to ensure they bake evenly.
- Stuffed peppers can be served alongside meats, on toasted bread, or in salads. They also pair well with cheese or olives.
- If you want to add a spicy note, you can include a few slices of hot pepper in each stuffed pepper.
- Make sure the garlic is fresh, as its flavor is essential for the final taste.
Calories and nutritional benefits:
Stuffed peppers are an excellent source of vitamins and antioxidants. A serving of stuffed peppers in the oven (about 2 peppers) has around 100 calories, providing essential nutrients such as vitamin C, vitamin A, and fiber. Additionally, garlic adds not only flavor but also health benefits, having antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.
Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use a different type of vinegar?
Yes, you can experiment with apple cider or wine vinegar, depending on your preferences.
2. Can the peppers be consumed immediately after preparation?
Although they can be consumed immediately, it is best to let them cool and consume them after a few days to allow the flavors to meld.
3. How can I tell if the peppers are well-preserved?
Check if the lids of the jars are sealed tightly. If the lids are bulging or give way when pressed, the peppers are not well preserved.
Conclusion:
Stuffed peppers in the oven are a simple yet flavorful recipe that can bring a touch of joy to your table. Whether you serve them as an appetizer or as a side dish, these peppers are sure to impress anyone who tastes them. I wish you success in preparing them and hope you enjoy every bite!
Ingredients: 12 suitable red bell peppers, 12 tablespoons of vinegar, 12 teaspoons of sunflower oil, 12 teaspoons of sugar, 36 peppercorns, 12 cloves of garlic.
