Albanian Stuffed Grilled Bell Peppers

Introduction

These Albanian Stuffed Grilled Bell Peppers are a mouthwatering favorite, filled with a delicious mixture of rice, minced meat, and spices, then grilled on the Arteflame to perfection. The combination of smoky flavor and tender texture makes these an irresistible dish.

Ingredients

• 4 large bell peppers (red, yellow, or green)
• 1 pound minced beef or lamb
• 1 cup cooked rice
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tablespoon butter (for grilling)
• 1/2 cup crushed tomatoes
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano

Instructions

Step 1: Fire up the Arteflame grill

1. Pour some vegetable oil on three paper napkins and place them inside the Arteflame grill.
2. Stack firewood over the oil-soaked napkins and light the paper.
3. Wait about 20 minutes for the grill to reach the optimal grilling temperature.

Step 2: Prepare the bell peppers

1. Cut off the tops of the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes.
2. Lightly coat the outside of the peppers with butter to enhance the grill flavor.

Step 3: Make the stuffing

1. In a bowl, mix the minced meat, cooked rice, chopped onion, garlic, paprika, salt, black pepper, cumin, parsley, and crushed tomatoes until well combined.
2. Fill each bell pepper with the stuffing mixture, pressing it down gently.

Step 4: Grill the peppers

1. Place the stuffed peppers on the cooler section of the Arteflame flat-top griddle.
2. Cook for 20-25 minutes, rotating occasionally to ensure even cooking.
3. Move the peppers closer to the center if you want a more roasted texture but avoid burning the skin.

Step 5: Rest and serve

1. Remove the stuffed peppers from the grill and let them rest for 5 minutes.
2. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.

Tips

• For extra flavor, add a small cube of butter inside each pepper before grilling.
• Use different colored bell peppers for a visually appealing dish.
• For a crispier exterior, sear the peppers briefly on the hotter section of the cooktop before moving them to the cooler area.

Variations

1. Cheesy Delight: Add shredded mozzarella or feta cheese on top of the stuffing for a rich, gooey texture.
2. Spicy Kick: Mix in 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes or diced jalapeños for a spicier version.
3. Vegetarian Option: Replace minced meat with mushrooms, zucchini, and chickpeas for a plant-based alternative.
4. Herby Freshness: Use fresh basil and thyme for a Mediterranean twist.
5. Tomato Boost: Add sun-dried tomatoes and roasted red peppers to amplify the sweetness.

Conclusion

These Albanian Stuffed Grilled Bell Peppers are packed with flavor and perfectly cooked on the Arteflame. A great dish for any outdoor grilling occasion!

Best pairings

• Garlic yogurt sauce
• Grilled flatbread
• Fresh cucumber and tomato salad
• Chilled white wine or a light lager