- **Bell Peppers** (Red, green or yellow) (Optional for garnish, to add color appeal)
- **Herbs** (Thyme, oregano, basil – dried or fresh, according to preference)
- **Tomato Paste** (2 tablespoons)
- **Chicken Broth** (1 cup)
- **Olive Oil** (2 tablespoons)
- **Salt and Pepper** (To taste)
- **Parmesan Cheese** (Grated, for topping)
This list includes all the necessary ingredients for a delicious barley stuffed green peppers dish. Use these keywords in your recipe blog or website to improve search engine visibility: "barley stuffed green peppers," "stuffed pepper recipe," "healthy stuffed vegetables."
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Steps
### Barley Stuffed Green Peppers: A Flavorful Main Dish Recipe
#### Ingredients:
- 4 large green bell peppers, halved lengthwise and seeded
- 1 cup uncooked pearl barley
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small zucchini, diced
- 1 carrot, peeled and grated
- 1/4 cup frozen peas (defrosted)
- 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
- 1/3 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup vegetable broth or water
#### Instructions:
1. **Preheat Oven**: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that the peppers will cook evenly without becoming too soft.
2. **Prepare Bell Peppers**: Carefully cut each green pepper in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and white membranes. Rinse them under cold water, then place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. **Cook Barley**: In a medium saucepan, bring 1 cup of vegetable broth or water to a boil over high heat. Add the pearl barley, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 25 minutes until tender but still slightly firm. Drain any excess liquid before proceeding.
4. **Sauté Vegetables**: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion, garlic, zucchini, and carrot; sauté until the vegetables are soft, about 8-10 minutes. Stir in cannellini beans, peas, parsley, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to meld flavors.
5. **Combine Ingredients**: Gently mix cooked barley into the vegetable mixture, ensuring all ingredients are well combined. This step is crucial as it binds together the stuffing.
6. **Stuff Peppers**: Spoon the barley and vegetable mixture into each bell pepper half, pressing down lightly to ensure they’re full but not overly stuffed.
7. **Bake Stuffed Peppers**: Place the stuffed peppers on a baking sheet in the preheated oven. Cover loosely with foil to prevent burning. Bake for 45-50 minutes until the peppers are tender and the barley is heated through.
8. **Serve**: Remove from oven, let cool slightly, then serve hot as a main dish. This hearty stuffing pairs well with a fresh salad or a side of crusty bread.
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By following these detailed steps, you’ll create a delicious, nutritious main dish that’s perfect for any meal. Enjoy your cooking!