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Stuffed Bell Peppers with Spiced Lentil Filling

This dish features vibrant bell peppers filled with a flavorful mixture of spiced lentils, fragrant herbs, and melted cheese. The peppers are roasted until tender and slightly caramelized, creating a colorful, hearty presentation with a combination of crunchy, creamy, and smoky textures.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Global
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 large bell peppers any color, tops sliced off and seeds removed
  • 1 cup dry lentils rinsed
  • 2 cups vegetable broth for cooking lentils
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 cup shredded cheese cheddar or mozzarella
  • to taste salt and pepper
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme or parsley chopped, for flavor

Equipment

  • Baking sheet
  • Large pot
  • Mixing bowl
  • Knife
  • Cutting board

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the halved bell peppers on a baking sheet, cut sides up, and roast for 15 minutes to soften and slightly char the edges.
  2. Meanwhile, rinse the lentils and combine them with vegetable broth in a large pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer until tender, about 20 minutes. Drain any remaining liquid and set aside.
  3. In a mixing bowl, stir together the cooked lentils, minced garlic, smoked paprika, cumin, chopped herbs, and a drizzle of olive oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix until well combined and flavorful.
  4. Spoon the lentil mixture into each roasted pepper, filling them generously and pressing down slightly to pack the filling tightly.
  5. Top each filled pepper with shredded cheese, spreading evenly over the surface. Return the peppers to the oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  6. Remove from the oven and let the stuffed peppers rest for a few minutes. They will be hot and steaming, with cheese slightly browned and gooey.

Notes

You can customize the filling with other ingredients like chopped vegetables or leftovers. For a vegetarian version, omit the cheese or substitute with a plant-based cheese.