Traditional Romanian Stuffed Peppers: Ardei Umpluți Recipe

Ingredients

  • 8 large bell peppers
  • 500g of ground pork
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 2 carrots, grated
  • 100g of rice, washed and drained
  • 1 bunch of fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • 1 bunch of fresh dill, finely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
  • 800g of canned tomatoes, crushed
  • 1 teaspoon of salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon of ground black pepper
  • 500ml of water
  • 150g of sour cream for serving (optional)

Steps and instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
  2. In a frying pan, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the onions and carrots, sauté until they are soft and the onions turn transparent.
  3. Add the ground pork to the pan and cook until it is browned.
  4. Add the washed and drained rice to the pan, continue to cook for a few more minutes.
  5. Stir in half of the crushed tomatoes, half of the finely chopped herbs, salt, and black pepper. Allow the mixture to cool.
  6. While the mixture is cooling, prepare the bell peppers. Remove the tops and seeds, making sure to keep the peppers intact.
  7. Stuff each bell pepper with the cooled mixture, then place them in a large baking dish.
  8. Combine the remaining crushed tomatoes, water, and the rest of the herbs in a bowl. Pour this mixture over the stuffed peppers in the baking dish.
  9. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour.
  10. After an hour, remove the foil and let the peppers bake for another 15-20 minutes or until they are tender and the tops are slightly browned.
  11. Allow the peppers to cool slightly before serving. Serve with sour cream on top if desired.

Tools for making

  • Frying pan - Used to sauté the onions, carrots, and ground pork.
  • Baking dish - Used to bake the stuffed peppers in the oven.
  • Aluminum foil - Used to cover the baking dish while baking the stuffed peppers.
  • Bowl - Used to combine the crushed tomatoes, water, and herbs for the sauce.
  • Knife - Used to chop the onions, carrots, parsley, and dill.
  • Cutting board - Used as a surface for chopping the vegetables and herbs.
  • Spoon or spatula - Used for stirring and mixing the ingredients.
  • Measuring spoons - Used to measure the salt, black pepper, and oil.
  • Measuring cup - Used to measure the water for the sauce.

Recipe variations

  • Vegetarian/Vegan Option: Replace the ground pork with a mixture of cooked quinoa, mushrooms, and black beans seasoned with your favorite herbs and spices.
  • Beef Option: Substitute the ground pork with ground beef for a richer flavor.
  • Lamb Option: Use ground lamb instead of ground pork for a unique and savory taste.
  • Chicken Option: Swap the ground pork with ground chicken for a lighter alternative.
  • Spicy Variation: Add some heat by incorporating diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes to the filling mixture.
  • Cheesy Twist: Mix in grated cheese such as cheddar or mozzarella to the filling for a gooey and flavorful surprise.
  • Grain-Free Option: Replace the rice with cauliflower rice or cooked quinoa for a low-carb or gluten-free alternative.
  • Herb Infusion: Experiment with different herbs like thyme, oregano, or basil to add a unique twist to the filling.
  • Stuffed Mushroom Variation: Instead of bell peppers, try stuffing the filling into large portobello mushrooms and baking them until tender.
  • Seafood Twist: Incorporate cooked shrimp or crab meat into the filling for a delicious seafood version of stuffed bell peppers.

Recipe overview

Ardei umpluți is a traditional Romanian dish that features hearty, savory stuffed bell peppers. This recipe incorporates a flavorful mixture of ground pork, rice, and vegetables, all cooked together and packed into hollowed-out bell peppers. The peppers are then baked until tender and slightly browned, resulting in a satisfying dish that is as beautiful as it is delicious. This recipe calls for a handful of common ingredients, and whilst it does require a bit of prep work, the end result is well worth it. The stuffed peppers can be served as a main course, accompanied by a dollop of sour cream on top, if you wish. Expect a comforting dish that's full of flavor and a joy to make!

Common questions

  1. Can I use a different type of meat? Yes, you can substitute the ground pork with ground beef, chicken, or turkey according to your preference.
  2. Can I use a different type of rice? Yes, you can use any type of rice you prefer, but keep in mind that the cooking time may vary.
  3. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned tomatoes? Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes. Simply peel and chop them, then use them in place of the canned tomatoes.
  4. Can I freeze the stuffed peppers? Yes, you can freeze the stuffed peppers before baking them. Just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container.
  5. How do I reheat the stuffed peppers? To reheat the stuffed peppers, preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F), place the peppers in a baking dish, cover with foil, and bake for about 30 minutes or until heated through.
  6. Can I make this recipe vegetarian? Yes, you can make a vegetarian version by substituting the ground meat with a mixture of cooked rice, vegetables, and cheese.
  7. What can I serve with stuffed peppers? Stuffed peppers can be served as a main dish on their own, but they also pair well with a side of mashed potatoes, salad, or crusty bread.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Baking dish - A large dish used to bake the stuffed bell peppers in the oven.
  • Frying pan - A pan used to cook the ground pork, onions, and carrots.
  • Aluminum foil - Used to cover the baking dish while the peppers are baking in the oven.
  • Bowl - Used to combine the crushed tomatoes, water, and herbs for the sauce.
  • Knife - Used to chop the onions, carrots, parsley, and dill.
  • Grater - Used to grate the carrots.
  • Spoon - Used to stir the ingredients in the pan and combine the sauce mixture.
  • Measuring spoons - Used to measure the salt, black pepper, and vegetable oil.

Origin stories

Ardei umpluți, or stuffed peppers, is a beloved dish in Romania and its charm resonates in kitchens across the region. Originating from the Balkans, these hearty peppers tell a story of abundant harvests and festive gatherings in picturesque Romanian villages. The humble bell pepper takes center stage, filled with a hearty mix of meat and rice, then baked to perfection. Each family has its own unique rendition of the dish, a carefully guarded secret passed down through generations. The peppers, with their vibrant colors, not only bring flavorsome delight but also a pop of color to the dinner table, reminiscent of Romania's lush landscapes. So, as you savor each bite, remember, you are partaking in a culinary tradition steeped in love, community, and a celebration of bountiful harvests.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.