Stuffed Pepper Soup: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe
Introduction to Stuffed Pepper Soup
Stuffed Pepper Soup is a delightful, hearty dish that brings together the comforting flavors of stuffed peppers in a warm and inviting soup. It’s perfect for chilly evenings when you crave something nourishing and satisfying. This recipe is simple to follow, making it a fantastic option for both novice cooks and experienced chefs alike. Packed with fresh vegetables, savory beef, and wholesome rice, this soup is sure to become a family favorite!
A Personal Story Behind My Stuffed Pepper Soup Journey
Growing up, my mother made stuffed peppers as a family tradition. Each bite was filled with love and the warmth of home. As I grew older, I wanted to recreate that comfort, but with a unique twist. Thus, Stuffed Pepper Soup was born! It combines the flavors I cherish while being quick to prepare, making it an ideal meal for busy days. I hope this recipe brings as much joy to your home as it has to mine.
What Makes This Stuffed Pepper Soup Recipe Special?
This Stuffed Pepper Soup stands out due to its blend of wholesome ingredients and robust flavors. The combination of ground sirloin, fresh green bell pepper, and aromatic herbs creates a rich, savory base. The addition of rice makes it filling, turning it into a complete meal in a bowl. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile! You can easily modify it by adding beans for extra protein or experimenting with different spices. It’s not just a meal; it’s comfort in a bowl.
The Full Stuffed Pepper Soup Recipe
Ingredients
- 1/2 pound ground sirloin
- 1/2 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1/2 cup finely diced onion
- 1/2 (29 ounce) can diced tomatoes
- 1/2 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1/2 (14 ounce) can chicken broth
- 1/8 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/8 teaspoon dried sage
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup white rice
Instructions
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook and stir the ground sirloin until browned and crumbly, about 5 to 7 minutes. Drain any excess grease to keep the soup light.
- Add the chopped green bell pepper and diced onion to the skillet. Cook and stir until the onion is soft and translucent, which should take around 5 minutes. This step adds a wonderful flavor base to the soup.
- Mix in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, chicken broth, dried thyme, and dried sage. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cover the skillet and simmer until the peppers are tender, approximately 30 to 45 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- In a separate saucepan, bring 1 cup of water and 1/2 cup of white rice to a boil. Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer until the rice is tender and the water is absorbed, about 20 to 25 minutes. This step ensures perfectly cooked rice.
- Once the rice is cooked, stir it into the soup, heating through for an additional 5 minutes. This will help the flavors meld beautifully. Serve hot, and enjoy your comforting bowl of Stuffed Pepper Soup!
Serving Suggestions and Variations for Stuffed Pepper Soup
This Stuffed Pepper Soup can be served with a side of crusty bread or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal. For a twist, consider adding black beans or kidney beans for added protein and fiber. You can also sprinkle shredded cheese on top for an extra layer of flavor. Feel free to adjust the spices according to your taste—adding a pinch of red pepper flakes can give it a nice kick!
Frequently Asked Questions About Stuffed Pepper Soup
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! Stuffed Pepper Soup stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat before serving.
Can I freeze the soup?
Yes, this soup freezes beautifully. Store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
What can I use instead of ground sirloin?
You can use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option, or keep it vegetarian by substituting with lentils or beans.
How can I make this soup spicier?
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños to the soup during cooking for an extra kick.
Recipe Stats
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Calories per Serving: 250
- Servings: 6
Stuffed Pepper Soup
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 0.5 pound ground sirloin
- 0.5 cup green bell pepper, chopped
- 0.5 cup finely diced onion
- 0.5 cans diced tomatoes (29 ounce can)
- 0.5 cans tomato sauce (15 ounce can)
- 0.5 cans chicken broth (14 ounce can)
- 0.125 teaspoon dried thyme
- 0.125 teaspoon dried sage
- 1 cup water
- 0.5 cup white rice
Instructions
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook ground sirloin until browned and crumbly, about 5 to 7 minutes. Drain excess grease.
- Add green bell pepper and diced onion to the skillet; cook and stir until onion is soft and translucent, around 5 minutes.
- Mix in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, chicken broth, thyme, and sage. Season with salt and pepper. Cover and simmer until peppers are tender, approximately 30 to 45 minutes.
- In a separate saucepan, bring water and rice to a boil. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer until rice is tender and water is absorbed, about 20 to 25 minutes.
- Stir the cooked rice into the soup, heat through, and serve.