American Stuffed Vegetables 3

Ingredients

• 4peppers or tomatoes
• 150 grice
• 1onion
• 80 mlolive oil
• herbs — chopped
• to tastefine sea salt and black pepper

Method

1. Start by preparing your vegetables. If using peppers, slice off the tops and remove the seeds and membranes inside. If using tomatoes, slice off the tops and carefully scoop out the seeds and pulp with a spoon, being careful not to puncture the outer walls. Set the prepared vegetables aside on a plate.
2. Rinse 150 g of rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and helps the rice cook more evenly. Drain well and set aside.
3. Chop 1 onion finely. Heat 80 ml of olive oil in a medium-sized skillet over medium heat. Once the oil shimmers, add the chopped onion. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent and soft, about 5 minutes, but do not let it brown.
4. Add the rinsed rice to the skillet with the onions. Stir to coat the rice grains in the oil, allowing them to toast slightly, which should take about 2-3 minutes. This step enhances the flavor and prevents the rice from becoming mushy.
5. Stir in your choice of herbs, such as parsley or thyme, to taste, along with fine sea salt and black pepper. Mix well to combine all the flavors. The mixture should be fragrant and well-seasoned.
6. Carefully spoon the rice mixture into the prepared peppers or tomatoes, filling them to the top but not packing too tightly, as the rice will expand as it cooks. Place the stuffed vegetables in a baking dish, ensuring they are snug and upright.
7. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to trap steam, which will help cook the rice. Bake in the preheated oven until the vegetables are tender and the rice is fully cooked, about 45 minutes. The vegetables should be soft but still hold their shape.
8. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes to allow the tops to brown slightly. This adds a nice texture contrast. Once done, remove from the oven and let them cool slightly. Finish with a sprinkle of salt to taste and serve immediately, sharing family-style at the table.