Welcome to our kitchen! Today, we’re preparing a nutritious and delicious dish—Millet Stuffed Peppers. These stuffed peppers are filled with a hearty mixture of millet, vegetables, and savory spices, making them a satisfying main course that’s perfect for any occasion. Let’s get started!
Why Millet?
Millet is a gluten-free whole grain that’s rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. It has a mild, nutty flavor and a fluffy texture when cooked, making it a versatile ingredient for stuffing vegetables like peppers. Millet adds a nutritious boost to this dish while providing a delightful taste and texture.
Ingredients
For these Millet Stuffed Peppers, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 4 large bell peppers (any color)
- 1 cup millet
- 2 cups vegetable broth or water
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 carrot, diced
- 1 zucchini, diced
- 1 cup mushrooms, diced
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella or vegan cheese (optional)
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Peppers
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish large enough to hold all the peppers.
- Prepare the Peppers: Slice the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. If needed, trim the bottoms slightly so they can stand upright in the baking dish. Place the peppers upright in the prepared baking dish.
Step 2: Cook the Millet
- Rinse the Millet: Place the millet in a fine mesh sieve and rinse under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps remove any bitterness.
- Cook the Millet: In a medium saucepan, bring the vegetable broth or water to a boil. Add the rinsed millet, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the millet is tender and the liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
Step 3: Prepare the Filling
- Sauté the Vegetables: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until the onion becomes translucent.
- Add the Vegetables: Stir in the diced carrot, zucchini, and mushrooms. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables start to soften.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked millet, drained diced tomatoes, dried oregano, dried basil, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir well to combine all ingredients evenly. Cook for another 2-3 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
Step 4: Stuff the Peppers
- Fill the Peppers: Spoon the millet and vegetable mixture evenly into the hollowed-out bell peppers, pressing gently to pack the filling. If desired, sprinkle shredded mozzarella or vegan cheese on top of each stuffed pepper.
Step 5: Bake the Stuffed Peppers
- Bake: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the filling is heated through.
Step 6: Serve
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the stuffed peppers from the oven. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or basil before serving.
- Enjoy!: Serve the Millet Stuffed Peppers warm as a wholesome main dish. They pair beautifully with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Tips and Variations
- Protein Boost: Add cooked chickpeas, black beans, or lentils to the filling for an extra protein kick.
- Spice it Up: Customize the flavors by adding chili flakes, fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary, or a dash of balsamic vinegar to the filling.
- Make Ahead: Prepare the filling and stuff the peppers ahead of time. Cover tightly and refrigerate until ready to bake. Increase baking time slightly if cooking from cold.
These Millet Stuffed Peppers are a fantastic way to enjoy a nutritious and flavorful meal. Whether you’re vegetarian, vegan, or simply looking for a delicious dish that’s packed with wholesome ingredients, these stuffed peppers are sure to impress. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the wonderful flavors and textures it offers!
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