Poblano peppers are a beloved ingredient in Mexican cuisine, known for their mild heat and rich, smoky flavor. For vegetarians, they offer a wonderful canvas to showcase a variety of vibrant, satisfying dishes.
Whether roasted, stuffed, or blended into sauces, poblano peppers add depth and character to vegetarian meals. If you’re looking to spice up your weekly menu with wholesome, flavorful, and meat-free options, poblano peppers are an excellent choice.
In this post, we’ll explore several delicious vegetarian poblano pepper recipes that are easy to prepare and sure to impress. From classic stuffed poblanos to creative, fresh dishes, these recipes highlight the versatility of this unique pepper.
Plus, we’ll share tips for perfect roasting, ingredient swaps, and serving ideas that will elevate your dining experience.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Poblano peppers have a subtle heat that’s approachable for most palates, making them perfect for vegetarian dishes that want a bit of spice without overwhelming heat. Their thick walls hold up well to stuffing and baking, providing a satisfying texture and depth of flavor.
These recipes offer a great balance of nutrients, colors, and tastes. You’ll find comforting, hearty meals as well as lighter, refreshing options.
Plus, poblano peppers are packed with vitamins A and C, antioxidants, and fiber, supporting a healthy diet.
Vegetarian poblano pepper recipes are versatile and customizable, so whether you’re a seasoned vegetarian or just exploring plant-based meals, you’ll find something to love here.
Ingredients
- 4 large poblano peppers
- 1 cup cooked quinoa or rice
- 1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (optional for vegetarians, omit or use vegan cheese for vegans)
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
- 1 cup tomato salsa or your favorite salsa
Equipment
- Baking sheet or roasting pan
- Mixing bowls
- Skillet or frying pan
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Spoon for stuffing
- Aluminum foil (optional)
- Oven mitts
Instructions
- Roast the poblanos: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place the whole poblano peppers on a baking sheet and roast for 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally, until the skins are blistered and charred.
- Steam and peel: Transfer the roasted peppers to a bowl and cover with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel. Let them steam for about 10 minutes. This will loosen the skins. Gently peel off the charred skins, being careful not to tear the peppers.
- Prepare the filling: In a skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the black beans, corn, cooked quinoa, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Stuff the peppers: Carefully cut a slit along one side of each poblano pepper and remove the seeds. Spoon the filling evenly into each pepper.
- Add cheese (optional): Sprinkle shredded cheese on top of each stuffed pepper if using.
- Bake: Place the stuffed peppers back on the baking sheet. Bake in the oven for 15-20 minutes, until the cheese is melted and the filling is heated through.
- Serve: Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh cilantro, and serve warm with your favorite salsa on the side.
Tips & Variations
“Roasting the poblano peppers not only softens them but also imparts a smoky flavor that is essential for authentic taste.”
- For a vegan version, substitute the cheese with vegan cheese or omit it completely.
- Add diced mushrooms or chopped spinach to the filling for extra nutrition.
- If you prefer a creamier filling, mix in some mashed avocado or vegan sour cream before stuffing.
- Try different grains like farro or bulgur instead of quinoa for variety.
- Top with fresh avocado slices or a squeeze of lime for a bright finish.
- Try using poblano peppers in soups or stews for a rich, earthy flavor.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
---|---|
Calories | 250-300 kcal |
Protein | 10-12 g |
Fat | 8-10 g |
Carbohydrates | 35-40 g |
Fiber | 8 g |
Vitamin A | 50% DV |
Vitamin C | 60% DV |
Serving Suggestions
These stuffed poblano peppers pair beautifully with a simple green salad and some warm corn tortillas for a complete meal. For a heartier dinner, serve alongside Mexican rice or a creamy Vegan Bechamel Sauce Recipe for Creamy Pasta Dishes.
For a festive brunch or appetizer, slice the stuffed peppers and serve with a side of fresh salsa and guacamole. You can also incorporate them into a vibrant bowl with grains and fresh veggies for a wholesome lunch.
More Vegetarian Poblano Pepper Recipes to Try
Poblano and Corn Quesadillas
A quick and flavorful dish combining roasted poblano peppers, sweet corn, and melty cheese (or vegan cheese) sandwiched between warm tortillas. They’re perfect for an easy weeknight dinner or snack.
Creamy Poblano Soup
This rich, velvety soup uses roasted poblanos blended with potatoes, onions, garlic, and vegetable broth. It’s a comforting choice on chilly days.
Add a dollop of vegan sour cream and some fresh cilantro for garnish.
Poblano Pepper and Black Bean Tacos
Stuff your tacos with sautéed poblano strips, black beans, fresh avocado, and crunchy slaw. Top with a squeeze of lime and some hot sauce for a fresh, satisfying meal.
For more inspiring vegetarian dishes, check out these recipes:
- Vegetarian Tex Mex Recipes for Easy Weeknight Dinners
- Vegetarian Middle Eastern Recipes for Easy, Flavorful Meals
- Vegetarian Southern Recipes That Everyone Will Love
Conclusion
Exploring vegetarian recipes with poblano peppers opens up a world of vibrant, flavorful meals that are both nutritious and satisfying. Their unique smoky taste and mild heat make them a versatile ingredient that enhances everything from stuffed peppers to soups and tacos.
These recipes are perfect for anyone wanting to incorporate more plant-based meals into their diet without sacrificing flavor or variety.
Whether you’re a vegetarian, vegan, or simply looking to try something new, poblano peppers offer a delicious way to enjoy wholesome ingredients in creative ways. Don’t hesitate to experiment with fillings, spices, and accompaniments to make these dishes your own.
For more inspiration, explore our other fantastic vegetarian recipes to keep your meals exciting and nourishing.
📖 Recipe Card: Stuffed Poblano Peppers Vegetarian
Description: A delicious vegetarian dish featuring roasted poblano peppers stuffed with a flavorful mixture of rice, black beans, and cheese. Perfect as a main course or hearty side.
Prep Time: PT20M
Cook Time: PT30M
Total Time: PT50M
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 large poblano peppers
- 1 cup cooked brown rice
- 1 cup canned black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1/2 cup corn kernels
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/4 cup chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Roast poblano peppers until skins are blistered, then peel and carefully slit one side to remove seeds.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil and sauté onion and garlic until translucent.
- Add black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper; cook for 5 minutes.
- Mix cooked rice into the bean mixture and remove from heat.
- Stuff each poblano pepper with the filling and place in a baking dish.
- Top each pepper with shredded cheddar cheese.
- Bake for 20 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve warm.
Nutrition: Calories: 320 kcal | Protein: 15 g | Fat: 12 g | Carbs: 38 g
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