Punjene Paprike (Stuffed Peppers)
Punjene Paprike is a traditional Balkan dish of bell peppers stuffed with a savory mix of ground meat, rice, and spices, then simmered in a rich, tangy tomato sauce. This hearty, comforting meal is a beloved family classic, perfect for gatherings or as a wholesome dinner that warms both the heart and soul.
Equipment
- 1 Baking Pan
- 1 Saute Pan
- 1 Small Pot
Ingredients
- 3 Tomatoes skinned and diced
- 2 Garlic clove minced
- 1 Onion peeled and minced
- 10 Ounces Ground beef
- 1 Tablespoon Paprika
- 1 Tablespoon Vegeta
- Black pepper to taste
- 1/2 Cup Rice
- 9 Bell peppers tops removed and deseeded
- 3.5 Ounces Tomato sauce
- 1 Teaspoon Sugar
- Salt to taste
- 2 Tablespoon Fresh parsley minced (or 4-6 teaspoons dried)
- 2 Cup Water
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan Sauce: In a deep baking pan, combine the diced tomatoes, minced garlic, and minced onion. Place the pan in the oven and set it to preheat at 440°F (225°C). Let the mixture begin to soften while you prepare the stuffing.
- Prepare the Stuffing: Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and onion, and sauté until they soften and become fragrant. Add the ground beef, paprika, Vegeta (or bouillon/salt), and black pepper to the pan. Cook until the meat is halfway done, stirring occasionally. While the meat is cooking, partially cook the rice by simmering it in a small pot with 1 to 1.5 cups of water over medium heat until it is halfway cooked. Once the rice is ready, combine it with the meat mixture and stir until well blended.
- Stuff the Peppers: Carefully fill each bell pepper with the prepared stuffing mixture. Do not overfill the peppers; ensure they are packed just enough to hold their shape. Place the stuffed peppers upright in the baking pan with the tomato mixture.
- Prepare the Second Sauce: In a pitcher, mix the tomato sauce, sugar, salt, parsley, and 2 cups of water. Pour this sauce evenly over the stuffed peppers in the baking pan, ensuring the peppers are well surrounded by liquid for even cooking.
- Bake the Peppers: Transfer the baking pan with the peppers and sauce into the oven. Bake the peppers for 60 to 75 minutes, occasionally rotating the pan and turning the peppers gently to ensure even cooking. Once the peppers are tender and the filling is fully cooked, remove them from the oven.
- Serve the Dish: Serve the baked stuffed peppers warm, optionally topped with a dollop of sour cream. Spoon some of the sauce from the pan over each pepper for extra flavor. Enjoy this comforting dish with family or friends!