Simple Ragu Stuffed Peppers
Ragu Stuffed Peppers
This stuffed pepper recipe is a simple way to enjoy bolognese sauce (ragu) despite not eating pasta. It is also a great way of eating lots of vegetables in one meal – the method is easy, it doesn’t take much time and it tastes good.
No more moaning about not being able to eat spaghetti bolognese – this version is nicer, healthier and won’t leave you feeling bloated and lethargic.
Ingredients
- Chopped tomatoes
- Minced/ground beef
- Spinach
- Onion
- Peppers
- Carrots
How-to Guide
- Chop onions and gently sweat in the pan.
- Add the beef and brown all over.
- When the meat is browned add the chopped tomatoes.
- Half-fill the tomato tin with water and add to the pan, making the mixture wetter.
- Bring to the boil, then reduce to a simmer after 1 minute.
- Chop the carrots into small chunks and add to the simmering mixture.
- At this point check the seasoning – you may want to add salt and pepper, herbs, Worcester sauce, tomato puree or even tomato ketchup to change the flavour.
- Next up, we have to prepare the peppers…Start by chopping the top off, but keep this for use later.
- Hollow out the pepper – remove seeds and white membrane.
- Flatten the bottom of the peppers by slicing the bottom off without puncturing – this allows them to stand up in the oven.
- When the bolognese has had time to reduce to a thicker, slightly drier sauce, spoon into the peppers and replace the tops. Make sure the stuffed peppers are not over-stuffed so the tops stay in place.
- Bake in the oven for 15-20 minutes at 200 degrees Celsius, keeping a close eye on them. Don’t over-cook stuffed peppers as the pepper itself will become too soft and not be strong enough to contain the stuffing. I like them to slightly char on the outside as it adds a nice flavour – this can be done by increasing the oven to maximum for the last minute or two of cooking, but requires close attention!
I served them a simple salad and some parmesan cheese shavings – they were really good! A way to still enjoy bolognese sauce and get in 6 portions of vegetables!
Give these ragu stuffed peppers a try and see what you think!