Ingredients with Measurements:
- 4 large bell peppers
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 cup queso criollo cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup onion, chopped
- 1/2 cup tomato, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Special equipment needed:
- Baking dish
- Mixing bowl
- Skillet
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. Cut off the tops of the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. Set aside.
3. In a skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil, onion, and garlic. Cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Add the ground beef, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Cook until the beef is browned.
5. Add the cooked rice and tomato to the skillet. Stir to combine.
6. Remove the skillet from heat and add the shredded queso criollo cheese. Stir until the cheese is melted and evenly distributed.
7. Stuff the bell peppers with the beef and rice mixture. Place them in a baking dish.
8. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the peppers are tender and the filling is heated through.
9. Serve hot and enjoy!
Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 35 minutes
Temperature:
375°F
Serving size:
4 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories: 450
Fat: 25g
Carbohydrates: 28g
Protein: 28g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Ground turkey or chicken can be used instead of ground beef.
- Any type of shredded cheese can be used instead of queso criollo cheese.
Variations:
- Add diced jalapeños for a spicy kick.
- Use different colored bell peppers for a colorful presentation.
- Add black beans or corn to the beef and rice mixture for added flavor and texture.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to cook the beef thoroughly before adding the other ingredients.
- Use a sharp knife to cut off the tops of the bell peppers.
- To make the dish vegetarian, omit the ground beef and add more vegetables and rice.
Storage instructions:
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
Serve the stuffed peppers on a bed of lettuce or with a side salad.
Garnishes:
Top with chopped cilantro or green onions for added flavor and color.
Pairings:
Serve with a side of Mexican rice or refried beans.
Suggested side dishes:
- Mexican rice
- Refried beans
- Side salad
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the peppers are not tender after baking, cover the baking dish with foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes.
- If the filling is too dry, add a splash of chicken or beef broth to the skillet.
Food safety advice:
Make sure to cook the ground beef to an internal temperature of 160°F to ensure it is safe to eat.
Food history:
Queso criollo cheese is a type of cheese commonly used in Latin American cuisine. It is a soft, white cheese with a mild flavor.
Flavor profiles:
Savory, cheesy, slightly spicy
Serving suggestions:
Serve hot as a main dish.
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