Stuffed Pepper Soup is a hearty and flavorful dish that encapsulates the essence of classic stuffed peppers in a comforting, bowl-worthy form. This soup combines the savory goodness of ground beef or turkey with the sweet and earthy flavors of bell peppers, onions, and garlic, simmered in a rich tomato-based broth. The inclusion of rice, either white or brown, adds a delightful texture and helps to thicken the soup, making it a filling meal on its own.
The preparation of Stuffed Pepper Soup starts with browning the meat in a large pot or Dutch oven, ensuring it’s thoroughly cooked and crumbled into small, bite-sized pieces. To this, diced onions and garlic are added, sautéed until fragrant and translucent. The bell peppers, often a mix of colors like green, red, yellow, and orange, are then introduced to the mix, sautéed until they start to soften, releasing their natural sweetness and vibrant colors into the dish.
The broth base is created by adding tomato sauce and diced tomatoes, which contribute a tangy depth to the soup, complemented by beef or chicken broth to adjust the consistency according to preference. Seasonings like salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning or a combination of basil and oregano are added to enhance the flavors, mirroring the traditional seasoning of stuffed peppers.
Rice is an essential component of this soup, stirred in towards the end of cooking to maintain its texture without becoming overly soft. Some recipes call for the rice to be cooked separately and added just before serving to prevent it from absorbing too much broth and becoming mushy.
Stuffed Pepper Soup is often simmered until all the flavors meld together, creating a rich and comforting dish. It can be served garnished with shredded cheese, fresh parsley, or sour cream, adding an extra layer of flavor and creaminess. This soup is not only a homage to the classic stuffed bell peppers but also an inventive way to enjoy the beloved dish in a less labor-intensive form.
Ideal for any season, Stuffed Pepper Soup is especially popular during the fall and winter months, providing warmth and comfort. It’s a versatile recipe that can easily be adapted to suit dietary preferences or to incorporate whatever vegetables and grains are on hand. Whether served as a weeknight dinner or as part of a larger feast, it’s a satisfying meal that combines nutrition, taste, and the nostalgic essence of home-cooked comfort food.
🍲 Ingredients:
1/2 lb Italian sausage
1/2 lb lean ground beef
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 green bell pepper, finely chopped
1 red bell pepper, finely chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
4 cups low-sodium beef broth
2 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
1 can (14.5 oz) salsa-style tomatoes
3/4 cup jasmine rice (or your choice of raw rice)
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
🍲 Steps to a Hearty Soup:
Over medium heat, grab a pot or a casserole and start browning the Italian sausage and ground beef, ensuring you break them apart as they cook.
Midway through the browning process, mix in the chopped onions and peppers. Keep stirring occasionally to combine well.
As the meat nears full browning, reduce the heat to medium-low. Add in the minced garlic, stirring constantly for a minute.
Carefully drain any excess fat.
Pour in the beef and chicken broths, and toss in the salsa-style tomatoes. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 15 minutes or until the peppers start becoming tender.
Introduce the rice to the pot, ensuring it’s thoroughly combined. Cover your pot and let it simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the rice is tender.
To serve, season your soup with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper as per your taste preference. Serve promptly for the best taste and texture.
A Pro Tip: This soup serves great with some crusty bread on the side. Also, if you’re in the mood for a bit more zest, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for an extra kick!
Enjoy a bowl of this comforting soup and revel in the convenience and warmth it brings to your table. A classic flavor, served in a new, delightful way. Cheers to good food and comfort in simplicity!