Mexican-style Overstuffed Peppers

Mexican-style Overstuffed Peppers Recipe - A Burst of Flavor

Region / culture: Mexico | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 35 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Mexican-style overstuffed peppers are a delicious and hearty dish that is perfect for a family dinner or a gathering with friends. These peppers are filled with a flavorful mixture of ground beef, onions, chilies, corn, and spices, then topped with melted cheddar cheese. They are easy to make and can be prepared ahead of time for a quick and convenient meal.

History

Stuffed peppers have been a popular dish in many cultures for centuries. The Mexican-style overstuffed peppers are a variation of the traditional stuffed pepper recipe, with the addition of Mexican flavors such as chilies and cumin. This recipe has been passed down through generations and has become a favorite in many households.

Ingredients

10 oz (283 g) of 93% extra-lean ground beef
0.5 cup of finely chopped onion
1 can (4 oz or 113 g) of mild chopped green chilies
0.5 cup of frozen corn kernels
0.25 cup of cornmeal
0.5 of an 8 oz (227 g) can of tomato sauce, divided
0.5 tsp of ground cumin
0.5 tsp of salt
2 large green bell peppers, split in half lengthwise, seeds and stem removed (about 8 oz or 227 g each)
2 oz (57 g) of shredded reduced-fat sharp cheddar cheese (0.67 cup)

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to 375°F (191°C).
Heat a medium nonstick skillet over medium-high heat until hot.
Cook the beef until it is browned.
Remove the skillet from the heat and drain the beef on paper towels.
Return the beef to the skillet.
Add the onion, chilies, corn, cornmeal, 0.25 cup of tomato sauce, cumin, and salt. Mix well.
Arrange the peppers, cut side up, in a 12 x 8 inches baking pan.
Spoon equal amounts of the beef mixture into each pepper half.
Spoon the remaining 0.25 cup of tomato sauce evenly over each pepper half. The pepper halves will be very full.
Bake, uncovered, for 35 minutes or until the peppers are tender.
Sprinkle each pepper half with equal amounts of cheese (the cheese does not have to melt).
Serve immediately or cool and freeze.
To freeze, place each pepper half in a 1 qt (946 ml) freezer resealable plastic food storage bag.
Release any excess air from the bags and seal them.
Freeze the bags flat for easier storage and faster thawing.
To reheat, open the food storage bag and place it on a microwave-safe plate.
Cook on high for 3 to 3.5 minutes or until hot.
Remove the pepper half from the bag and place it on a plate.

Variations

You can customize the filling by adding ingredients such as black beans, rice, or diced tomatoes. You can also use different types of cheese, such as pepper jack or mozzarella.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to thoroughly drain the ground beef after browning to remove excess fat.

- You can customize the filling by adding your favorite vegetables or spices.

- To save time, you can prepare the filling ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to use.

- For a vegetarian version, you can substitute the ground beef with cooked quinoa or lentils.

Serving Suggestions

Mexican-style overstuffed peppers can be served with a side of rice, beans, or a salad for a complete meal. They can also be topped with sour cream, salsa, or avocado for added flavor.

Cooking Techniques

Baking the peppers in the oven allows them to cook evenly and become tender. Make sure to cover the baking dish with foil to prevent the peppers from drying out.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the ground beef in this recipe. You can also use different types of peppers, such as red or yellow bell peppers.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the filling ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. You can also assemble the peppers and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the Mexican-style overstuffed peppers on a platter garnished with fresh cilantro or chopped green onions. You can also drizzle them with a dollop of sour cream or salsa for added color and flavor.

Pairing Recommendations

Mexican-style overstuffed peppers pair well with a side of Mexican rice, refried beans, or a green salad. They also go well with a glass of cold beer or a margarita.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

You can store leftover Mexican-style overstuffed peppers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the peppers on a microwave-safe plate and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, or until hot.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Mexican-style overstuffed peppers contains approximately 300 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Mexican-style overstuffed peppers contains approximately 20 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Mexican-style overstuffed peppers contains approximately 10 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Mexican-style overstuffed peppers contains approximately 25 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Mexican-style overstuffed peppers are a good source of vitamin C, vitamin A, iron, and calcium.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (cheddar cheese) and corn, which may be allergens for some individuals.

Summary

Mexican-style overstuffed peppers are a balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. They are also rich in vitamins and minerals, making them a nutritious choice for a meal.

Summary

Mexican-style overstuffed peppers are a delicious and nutritious meal that is easy to make and can be customized to suit your taste preferences. Whether you are cooking for a family dinner or a gathering with friends, these peppers are sure to be a hit. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

I can still recall the sense of amazement I felt when I first saw this recipe for Mexican-style Overstuffed Peppers. It was a warm summer day, and my dear friend Maria invited me over to her house for lunch. As soon as I stepped into her kitchen, I was hit with the most incredible aroma of spices and herbs. Maria greeted me with a warm smile and a hug, and then she revealed what she had been cooking - the most delicious looking overstuffed peppers I had ever seen.

I watched in awe as Maria effortlessly chopped vegetables, seasoned the meat, and carefully stuffed the peppers with the flavorful mixture. She explained to me that this recipe had been passed down through generations in her family, and she was happy to share it with me. As we sat down to eat, I took my first bite of the Mexican-style Overstuffed Pepper and was instantly transported to a world of bold flavors and comforting textures. It was a culinary experience unlike anything I had ever tasted before.

After that day, I knew I had to learn how to make this dish for myself. Maria graciously offered to teach me, and we spent the next few weekends in her kitchen, honing my skills and perfecting the recipe. She showed me the importance of using fresh ingredients, the art of seasoning to taste, and the love and care that goes into every step of the cooking process.

As I continued to make the Mexican-style Overstuffed Peppers on my own, I began to add my own twist to the recipe. I experimented with different types of meat, spices, and vegetables, creating a version that was uniquely my own. I shared my creation with friends and family, and they all raved about how delicious it was.

Over the years, I have continued to make the Mexican-style Overstuffed Peppers for special occasions and family gatherings. Each time I prepare this dish, I am reminded of the time spent in Maria's kitchen, learning from her and creating something beautiful together. The recipe has become a treasured part of my culinary repertoire, a reminder of the bond between friends and the joy that comes from sharing a meal with loved ones.

I am grateful to Maria for introducing me to this recipe and for inspiring me to explore the world of Mexican cuisine. The flavors, aromas, and memories associated with the Mexican-style Overstuffed Peppers will always hold a special place in my heart, reminding me of the power of food to bring people together and create lasting connections.