How to Make Turkish Stuffed Peppers with Vegetables

Turkish stuffed peppers, known as "Biber Dolması," are a delicious and nutritious dish that features vibrant vegetables packed with flavor. Making them at home is easier than you might think, and using fresh, seasonal ingredients will elevate the taste. In this article, we’ll explore how to make Turkish stuffed peppers with vegetables, step by step.

Ingredients

To prepare Turkish stuffed peppers, you will need the following ingredients:

4 large bell peppers (red, green, or yellow)
1 cup of rice (preferably short-grain)
1 large onion, finely chopped
2 cloves of garlic, minced
1 medium zucchini, finely chopped
1 medium carrot, grated
1 cup of diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
2 tablespoons of tomato paste
½ cup of fresh parsley, chopped
1 teaspoon of ground cumin
1 teaspoon of paprika
Salt and black pepper to taste
3 tablespoons of olive oil
2 cups of vegetable broth or water
Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Peppers

Start by washing the bell peppers thoroughly. Slice the tops off and remove the seeds and membranes carefully. Save the tops for later use. If necessary, trim a small portion off the bottom so that the peppers stand upright.

Step 2: Cook the Rice

In a medium pot, bring 2 cups of vegetable broth or water to a boil. Add the rice and a pinch of salt, reducing the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer until the rice is cooked and the liquid has been absorbed, about 15-20 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside to cool.

Step 3: Prepare the Filling

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic, zucchini, and grated carrot. Cook for another 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender.

Next, add the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, cooked rice, parsley, cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well and let it cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend. Remove from heat.

Step 4: Stuff the Peppers

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Carefully spoon the vegetable and rice mixture into each bell pepper, packing them gently but not too tightly. Once filled, place the stuffed peppers upright in a baking dish. You can place the saved tops on top of the peppers, as they add flavor while baking.

Step 5: Bake

Pour a bit of water (about 1 cup) into the bottom of the baking dish to help steam the peppers while they cook. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for about 30-35 minutes. After this time, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and slightly charred.

Step 6: Serve

Once baked, remove the stuffed peppers from the oven and let them cool slightly. Serve warm with lemon wedges for a zesty kick. These Turkish stuffed peppers are perfect as a main dish or a side, and they can be enjoyed hot or at room temperature.

Conclusion

Making Turkish stuffed peppers with vegetables is not only a rewarding cooking experience but also a chance to enjoy a meal rich in flavors and nutrients. This dish can be customized with different vegetables and spices to suit your taste, making it a versatile addition to your culinary repertoire. Enjoy your meal!