If you're looking for a delicious and healthy meal, look no further than the Puerto Rican Style Stuffed Green Pepper, or Pimiento Relleno. This traditional dish is hearty, flavorful, and packed with nutrients. With just 166 calories per 100 grams, it's a guilt-free treat you can enjoy any time of day.

The Pimiento Relleno is made by stuffing green bell peppers with a mixture of ground beef or turkey, rice, herbs, and spices. It's then baked to perfection and topped with a savory tomato sauce. With ingredients like these, it's no wonder that it's become a favorite dish across the Caribbean and Latin America.

In this article, we'll explore the ingredients used in Pimiento Relleno, its health benefits and nutritional value, as well as some popular variations and tips for making the perfect dish. We'll also give you some ideas for delicious side dishes to serve with your Pimiento Relleno.

What is Pimiento Relleno?

Pimiento Relleno is a traditional Puerto Rican dish that consists of green bell peppers stuffed with a mixture of ground beef or turkey, rice, herbs, and spices. The dish is then baked and topped with a tomato sauce, which adds a savory and tangy flavor to the dish. Pimiento Relleno is a popular dish across the Caribbean and Latin America, and is well-loved for its hearty and flavorful taste.

How to Make Puerto Rican Style Stuffed Green Pepper

To make Pimiento Relleno, you'll need the following ingredients: - 4 large green bell peppers - 1 pound ground beef or turkey - 1 cup cooked rice - 1 onion, chopped - 3 garlic cloves, minced - 1/4 cup chopped cilantro - 1 tsp. dried oregano - Salt and pepper to taste - 1/2 cup tomato sauce - 1/2 cup water To begin, preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Cut the tops off of the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. In a large bowl, mix together the ground beef or turkey, cooked rice, onion, garlic, cilantro, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stuff the bell peppers with the mixture and place them in a baking dish. Mix together the tomato sauce and water and pour over the stuffed peppers. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the filling is cooked through. Serve hot and enjoy!

Ingredients Used in Pimiento Relleno

The main ingredients used in Pimiento Relleno include: - Green bell peppers - Ground beef or turkey - Cooked rice - Onion - Garlic - Cilantro - Oregano - Tomato sauce - Water - Salt and pepper Some variations of the dish may include additional ingredients or spices, such as paprika, cumin, or chili powder. The ingredients used in the dish are all nutrient-dense and provide a variety of health benefits.

Health Benefits of Eating Stuffed Green Pepper

Green bell peppers are a great source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin B6, and potassium. They are also low in calories and high in fiber, making them a great addition to any diet. Eating stuffed green peppers can help you maintain a healthy weight, improve digestion, and protect against chronic diseases such as heart disease and cancer. The ground beef or turkey used in the dish provides a good source of protein, while the rice adds carbohydrates for energy. The herbs and spices used in the dish provide additional nutrients and anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce inflammation in the body.

Nutritional Value of 100 G Puerto Rican Style Stuffed Green Pepper

100 grams of Pimiento Relleno provides the following nutritional value: - calories: 166 - Fat: 7.2 grams - Carbohydrates: 9.5 grams - Fiber: 1.2 grams - Protein: 16.5 grams - Sodium: 423 mg The dish is high in protein and low in carbohydrates, making it a great option for those following a low-carb or high-protein diet. It is also low in calories, making it a great option for those looking to lose weight or maintain a healthy weight.

Side Dishes to Serve with Pimiento Rellenos

Pimiento Relleno is a hearty and flavorful dish that pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Here are a few ideas to get you started: - Black beans and rice - Tostones (fried plantains) - Avocado salad - Sauteed green beans - Corn on the cob These side dishes provide additional nutrients and flavors that complement the dish, making for a complete and satisfying meal.

Popular Variations of Stuffed Green Peppers

Stuffed green peppers are a popular dish across many cultures and countries, each with their own unique spin on the dish. Some popular variations include: - Mexican stuffed peppers: Typically made with ground beef or chicken, rice, beans, and cheese, and topped with a spicy tomato sauce. - Greek stuffed peppers: Made with ground lamb or beef, rice, tomatoes, and herbs, and topped with a creamy yogurt sauce. - Italian stuffed peppers: Made with ground beef or sausage, breadcrumbs, and parmesan cheese, and topped with marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese. Each variation of the dish provides its own unique flavors and textures, making stuffed peppers a versatile and delicious meal option.

Pimiento Relleno vs. Other Stuffed Pepper Dishes

While stuffed bell peppers may seem like a simple and straightforward dish, there are actually many variations and styles of the dish. Pimiento Relleno is a Puerto Rican style stuffed pepper that is known for its hearty and flavorful filling of ground beef or turkey, rice, and herbs. Compared to other stuffed pepper dishes, Pimiento Relleno is usually less spicy and has a milder flavor. It is also typically topped with a tomato sauce, which adds a tangy and savory flavor to the dish.

Tips for Making the Perfect Pimiento Relleno

To ensure that your Pimiento Relleno turns out perfectly every time, here are a few tips to keep in mind: - Use firm and fresh green bell peppers. This will ensure that they hold their shape when baked and don't become too soft or mushy. - Mix the filling thoroughly to ensure even distribution of flavors and ingredients. - Use a baking dish that is just the right size for the peppers, so that they fit snugly and don't tip over while baking. - Allow the dish to cool for a few minutes before serving, to avoid burning your mouth on the hot filling. By following these tips, you'll be able to make the perfect Pimiento Relleno every time.

Where to Find Pimiento Relleno on a Restaurant Menu

If you're looking to try Pimiento Relleno at a restaurant, you'll likely find it on the menu at Puerto Rican or Latin American restaurants. Some restaurants may also offer variations of the dish that incorporate different ingredients or spices. You can also try making the dish at home using the recipe provided in this article. Just pick up the ingredients at your local grocery store and get cooking!