Ardei Umpluti, or stuffed peppers, have a way of bringing warmth and comfort to any table. This classic dish, with roots in Romanian cuisine, combines vibrant bell peppers stuffed with a savory mixture of rice, ground meat, and spices, creating a colorful centrepiece that’s as inviting as it is delicious.
The first time I made these was during a chilly autumn evening, and the aroma that filled my kitchen was simply irresistible.
What makes this recipe so special is the balance of flavors and textures. As the peppers bake, they soften, allowing the juicy filling to meld beautifully with the sweet pepper’s taste. Topped with a rich tomato sauce, they not only look stunning but also deliver a mouthwatering explosion of flavor.
Pair them with a side of Spaghetti Stuffed Garlic Bread or a refreshing Greek salad, and you’ve got a complete meal that’s perfect for gatherings or cozy family dinners. I can’t wait to hear how your Ardei Umpluti turn out, whether you stick to tradition or add your twist!
What is Ardei Umpluti Recipe?
Ardei Umpluti is a traditional Romanian dish of stuffed peppers. Bell peppers are filled with a mixture of ground meat (usually pork or beef), rice, onions, and seasonings. The stuffed peppers are then simmered in a tomato sauce until tender. It’s a hearty and flavorful meal, often served with sour cream or crusty bread.
Ardei Umpluti Recipe
Ingredients
- 11 Yellow Bell Peppers Cored, Seeds Removed
- 250 Grams Ground Beef
- 250 Grams Ground Pork
- ⅔ Cup Short-Grain White Rice
- 3 Tbsp Vegetable Oil Divided
- 2 Small Yellow Onions Finely Chopped
- 4 Large Tomatoes 2 For Lids, 2 For Sauce
- 5 Tbsp Tomato Paste
- 3 Tbsp Fresh Parsley Finely Diced
- 2 Tsp Smoked Paprika
- 2 Tsp Dried Dill
- 3 Dried Bay Leaves
- 1.5 Tsp Black Pepper
- 2.25 Tsp Salt
Instructions
Prepare the Peppers and Tomato Lids:
- Preheat the oven to 175°C (350°F).
- Core the peppers by cutting around the stems, removing seeds, and white fibers.
- Use a sharp knife to slice the skin off the tomatoes, creating round disks to serve as the lids for the peppers.
- Blend the remaining tomatoes with a cup of water to create a smooth tomato sauce, and set aside.
Prepare the Filling:
- Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sauté the onions until they begin to soften and brown (about 3 minutes).
- Add the tomato paste, rice, and the remaining tablespoon of oil. Sauté for another 2-3 minutes until the mixture is dry and sizzling.
- Gradually add a cup of water, a quarter cup at a time, letting the mixture reduce and caramelize before adding more.
- Once all the water is added, turn off the heat and stir in another half cup of water. Let the mixture cool slightly.
Assemble and Bake:
- In a bowl, combine the ground beef, pork, cooked rice mixture, parsley, smoked paprika, dill, black pepper, and salt. Mix thoroughly.
- Stuff each pepper with the meat and rice mixture, being careful not to overfill.
- Press the tomato lids gently into the tops of the peppers.
- Place the stuffed peppers snugly into a baking dish and pour the blended tomato sauce over them.
- Add the bay leaves between the peppers, ensuring they are submerged in the liquid.
- Cover the dish and bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour.
Notes
- For extra flavor, you can brush the peppers with olive oil before baking.
- Check the peppers halfway through cooking to ensure the sauce isn’t drying out; add more water if necessary.
Nutrition Facts:
| Nutrition | Value |
|---|---|
| Calories | 218 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 17g |
| Protein | 11g |
| Fat | 12g |
| Sodium | 566mg |
| Cholesterol | 34mg |
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make a vegetarian version by substituting the meat with mushrooms, lentils, or more vegetables. Make sure to season well to enhance the flavor of the stuffing.
What Kind of Peppers Should I Use?
Bell peppers are the most common choice for Ardei Umpluti. Choose peppers that are medium to large in size and have a firm texture so they hold up during cooking.
How Long Does It Take to Cook Ardei Umpluti?
Once the peppers are stuffed and placed in the sauce, they need to simmer on low heat for about 1 to 1.5 hours until the meat and rice are fully cooked, and the peppers are tender.
Can I Freeze Ardei Umpluti?
Yes, Ardei Umpluti freezes well. Place cooled stuffed peppers in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven or microwave.
