Mexican Inspired Vegetarian Oven Roasted Stuffed Peppers

Dive into the vibrant world of Mexican cuisine with this delightful recipe for Mexican Inspired Vegetarian Oven Roasted Stuffed Peppers. Perfectly roasted red or yellow bell peppers are filled with a hearty mixture of rice, kidney beans, and aromatic spices, all topped with creamy cheeses that melt in your mouth. This dish serves as an excellent appetizer, or you can enjoy it as a main course alongside your favorite sides.

Ingredients

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Preparation Time

Servings

Instructions

To begin making the Mexican Inspired Vegetarian Oven Roasted Stuffed Peppers, the first step is to half-roast the peppers. Start by preheating your oven to 200 degrees Celsius (about 400 degrees Fahrenheit) for 15 minutes. While the oven is heating, wash the bell peppers thoroughly and pat them completely dry. Carefully slice off the tops of the peppers to create a cavity, and using a spoon, scoop out the seeds. If necessary, gently slice off a small amount from the bottom of each pepper to flatten them, ensuring they can stand upright without wobbling.

Next, prepare a baking tray by lining it with foil for easy cleanup. Generously coat the outside of the peppers with olive oil, and arrange them upright on the baking tray, with their open tops facing upwards. Once the oven is preheated, place the tray inside and reduce the temperature to 180 degrees Celsius (approximately 350 degrees Fahrenheit). Allow the peppers to roast for about 15 minutes until they are partially cooked but not fully tender. Keep a close eye on them to avoid overcooking, as you want them to maintain their shape and structure.

While the peppers are roasting, it’s time to prepare the filling. In a skillet, warm a couple of tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onions and minced garlic, sautéing until the onions become translucent and pale. Introduce the chopped celery and continue to sauté for an additional 3-4 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

Next, add the chopped tomato along with salt and pepper, stirring the mixture until it becomes mushy and fragrant. At this stage, sprinkle in the smoked paprika and cumin powder, allowing the spices to cook through for a minute or two, infusing the filling with deep flavor. Then, add the cooked kidney beans, mashing a few of them to create a richer, thicker texture. The mixture should be glossy and enticing.

Incorporate the cooked rice into the skillet, tossing everything together over high heat until the rice is evenly mixed with the vegetable filling. Add the grated paneer, chopped coriander, and mint leaves, mixing thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are well combined. Finally, turn off the heat and fold in the grated cheddar cheese, allowing the residual heat from the rice to gently melt the cheese into the filling.

Once the peppers have roasted partially, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly. Ensure that the oven remains on, as you will return the stuffed peppers to bake them fully. Using a tablespoon, carefully fill each pepper with the rice mixture, pressing it down to pack the filling tightly. For an added touch, feel free to garnish the tops with additional coriander and more grated cheddar cheese.

Return the stuffed peppers to the lined baking tray and place them back in the oven for another 15-17 minutes. You want to bake them until they begin to slightly shrivel and char in some spots, indicating they are perfectly cooked and infused with flavor.

Once they are done, remove the peppers from the oven and let them rest for a few moments before serving. These Oven Roasted Stuffed Bell Peppers make for an exquisite appetizer or can be paired with enchiladas stuffed with beans and a tartare dip as a delightful main course. For dessert, consider indulging in a sticky date (fig) and walnut pudding drizzled with toffee sauce to round out your meal beautifully.

Serving Suggestions

Enjoy the Mexican Inspired Vegetarian Oven Roasted Stuffed Peppers warm, garnished with fresh herbs, alongside your favorite sides, and savor the explosion of flavors in every bite. This dish is not only a feast for the eyes but also a wholesome option for vegetarians and anyone looking to enjoy a delicious, hearty meal.

Happy cooking and bon appétit!