Korean Stuffed Vegetables

Ingredients

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

Method

1. Start by preparing the vegetables. If using peppers, slice off the tops and remove the seeds and membranes inside. For tomatoes, carefully cut off the tops and scoop out the insides with a spoon, being cautious not to puncture the outer skin. Set these aside as they will serve as the vessels for the stuffing.
2. Cook the rice by rinsing 150 g of it under cold water until the water runs clear. Place the rice in a pot with 300 ml of water and bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer until the water is absorbed and the rice is tender with a slightly sticky texture.
3. While the rice is cooking, finely chop 1 onion. Heat 40 ml of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent and soft, releasing a sweet aroma. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
4. Once the onion is ready, add the cooked rice to the skillet. Stir in your choice of herbs, such as chopped cilantro or parsley, to taste. Season the mixture with fine sea salt and black pepper, ensuring the flavors are well combined and the rice mixture is evenly seasoned.
5. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Stuff each prepared pepper or tomato with the rice mixture, pressing down gently to fill them completely. Drizzle the remaining 40 ml of olive oil over the stuffed vegetables to enhance the flavor and help with roasting.
6. Place the stuffed vegetables in a baking dish, ensuring they are snug but not overcrowded. Bake in the preheated oven until the vegetables are tender and slightly charred on the edges, with the skins of the peppers or tomatoes beginning to wrinkle. This indicates they are cooked through and ready to serve.
7. Once done, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool slightly. Finish with a sprinkle of salt to taste, adjusting as needed. Serve the Korean Stuffed Vegetables warm, inviting everyone to share and enjoy the flavors together.