The Vegan Table Publisher: Fair Winds Press © 2009 by Colleen Patrick-Goudreau ISBN: 9781592333745

Reprinted with permission from the author, Colleen Patrick-Goudreau.

Elegantly Simple Stuffed Bell Peppers (p. 112)
Yield: 12 servings

Use any combination of peppers for this elegant but simple recipe. It’s very versatile: the flavor will change depending on which herbs and spices you choose.

Directions

Preheat oven to 375°F. Boil 1 cup water to pour around peppers in pan.

Halve peppers lengthwise, leaving stems intact. Scoop out seeds. Brush cut sides with 1 tablespoon oil, place them cut side up in a shallow, lightly oiled baking dish, and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Bake for 15 minutes, until the peppers are softer and easily pierced with a fork but still have their shape.

Heat a few tablespoons of water or stock in a large soup pot. Sauté onions and garlic for 5 minutes over medium heat, until onion becomes translucent. Add tomatoes and raw almonds, and sauté for another minute or two. Remove pan from heat and stir in rice, mint, parsley, basil, and raisins. Season well with salt and pepper, then spoon mixture into the peppers still on the baking sheet.

Pour 2/3 to 1 cup boiling water around the peppers, just enough to touch the base of each so they don’t burn. Bake, uncovered, for 15 minutes. Sprinkle ground almonds on top. Return to oven and bake for 15 minutes longer. Serve garnished with fresh herbs, if desired.

Compassionate Cooks Tip

When choosing peppers for this dish, look for full ones with a deep cavity to stuff.

*Oil-free, wheat-free, soy-free