Bell Pepper Dolma Recipe Vegetarian: Easy and Delicious

Bell pepper dolma is a delightful vegetarian dish that combines the vibrant colors and natural sweetness of bell peppers with a savory, herb-infused rice filling. This recipe is a fantastic way to showcase fresh produce while creating a hearty and satisfying meal that’s perfect for family dinners or special occasions.

Stuffed vegetables have long been a staple in Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisines, and this vegetarian version offers all the rich flavors without any meat, making it ideal for plant-based eaters or anyone looking to enjoy a wholesome, nutritious dish.

What makes bell pepper dolma stand out is its versatility and the balance of textures—the tender, roasted bell peppers envelop a fragrant, slightly tangy rice mixture packed with herbs, nuts, and spices.

It’s a comforting yet elegant dish that can be served as a main course or a stunning appetizer. Plus, it’s easy to prepare ahead of time and reheat, making it a convenient choice for busy cooks.

Ready to impress your guests or enjoy a cozy meal? Let’s dive into this colorful and flavorful vegetarian bell pepper dolma recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegetarian bell pepper dolma recipe is a celebration of fresh ingredients and aromatic spices. Here’s why it will quickly become a favorite:

• Healthy & Nutritious: Packed with vegetables, whole grains, and herbs, it’s a wholesome meal that supports a balanced diet.
• Flavorful & Aromatic: The use of fresh herbs like parsley and dill, combined with turmeric and cinnamon, creates a complex, inviting flavor profile.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare in advance and enjoy leftovers that taste even better the next day.
• Vegetarian & Vegan Adaptable: Easily made vegan by skipping optional cheese toppings or using plant-based alternatives.
• Visually Stunning: The colorful bell peppers stuffed with vibrant rice make for a beautiful presentation on any table.

Ingredients

• 4 large bell peppers (red, yellow, or green)
• 1 cup long-grain rice, rinsed
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 medium tomato, diced
• 1/4 cup pine nuts or chopped walnuts (optional)
• 1/4 cup raisins or currants (optional)
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 2 cups vegetable broth or water
• Juice of half a lemon
• Optional: crumbled feta cheese or vegan cheese for topping

Equipment

• Large saucepan with lid
• Medium skillet or frying pan
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Baking dish or deep oven-safe pan
• Aluminum foil or lid for baking dish

Instructions

1. Prepare the bell peppers: Wash the bell peppers thoroughly. Cut off the tops and carefully remove the seeds and membranes. Set aside the tops if you wish to use them as lids while baking.
2. Cook the rice: In a large saucepan, bring 1 1/2 cups of vegetable broth or water to a boil. Add the rinsed rice, a pinch of salt, and reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for about 10-12 minutes, until the rice is partially cooked but still firm. Drain any excess liquid and set aside.
3. Sauté the vegetables: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until translucent. Add the minced garlic and diced tomato, cooking for another 3-4 minutes until softened.
4. Combine filling ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the sautéed onion, garlic, and tomato mixture with the partially cooked rice. Stir in pine nuts, raisins, parsley, dill, cumin, cinnamon, turmeric, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly to combine all flavors evenly.
5. Stuff the bell peppers: Fill each bell pepper generously with the rice mixture, pressing down lightly to pack the filling. Place the stuffed peppers upright in a baking dish. If you saved the tops, place them on the peppers as lids.
6. Add broth and bake: Pour the remaining 1/2 cup vegetable broth into the bottom of the baking dish to keep the peppers moist during baking. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil or a lid.
7. Bake the dolmas: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the peppers for 35-40 minutes until the peppers are tender and the filling is cooked through.
8. Optional topping: In the last 5 minutes of baking, sprinkle crumbled feta or vegan cheese on top of the peppers and return to the oven uncovered to melt slightly.
9. Serve warm: Carefully remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.

Tips & Variations

“For an extra burst of flavor, try adding chopped fresh mint or a pinch of smoked paprika to the rice filling.”

• Make it vegan: Skip the cheese topping or use plant-based alternatives to keep the dish fully vegan.
• Grain alternatives: Substitute rice with quinoa, bulgur, or couscous for a different texture and nutritional profile.
• Nut-free version: Omit nuts if you have allergies or prefer a simpler filling.
• Spice it up: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or chili flakes for a spicy kick.
• Serve chilled: Leftover dolmas can be served cold or at room temperature as a refreshing summer dish.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Bell pepper dolma pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes and accompaniments to complete your meal:

• Serve alongside a crisp Kosher Sushi Salad Recipe for a refreshing contrast.
• Accompany with warm pita bread or flatbreads to scoop up the flavorful filling.
• A dollop of creamy tzatziki or a drizzle of tahini sauce adds a cooling element.
• For a hearty meal, try paired with a vegetable stew or a lentil soup.
• Make it part of a mezze platter with hummus, olives, and roasted eggplants.

Conclusion

Bell pepper dolma is a versatile and satisfying vegetarian dish that brings a refreshing twist to traditional stuffed vegetables. Its vibrant colors, aromatic spices, and wholesome ingredients make it a nutritious choice for any occasion.

Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, this recipe is sure to impress with its balance of flavors and textures.

One of the best parts about this recipe is how easily it adapts to your preferences—whether you want to add nuts and raisins for a sweet and crunchy touch or keep it simple and savory. Plus, it stores well, making it perfect for meal prep or leftovers.

If you enjoyed this recipe, you might also love trying other creative dishes like the Magic Dough Recipe or the rich and flavorful Kosher Short Ribs Recipe for your next culinary adventure.

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