Peperoni ripieni

1. Prepare the peppers:
   • Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and inner membranes. Set aside.
2. Cook the filling:
   • Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
   • Sauté the onion until translucent, about 5 minutes.
   • Add the garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
   • Add the ground beef and cook until browned. Season with salt, pepper, and oregano.
   • Stir in the cooked rice, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and parsley. Simmer for 5 minutes.
   • Remove from heat and let cool slightly. Mix in the egg and grated Parmesan cheese.
3. Stuff the peppers:
   • Fill each pepper with the meat and rice mixture. Add a few cubes of mozzarella into the center of each pepper before adding more filling on top.
   • Drizzle a bit of olive oil over the stuffed peppers.
4. Bake the peppers:
   • Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
   • Place the stuffed peppers in a baking dish and cover with foil.
   • Bake for 30-35 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes until the peppers are tender and the filling is golden.
5. Serve:
   • Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.

Optional Variations:

• You can substitute the meat with ground turkey, chicken, or even a vegetarian option like lentils or quinoa.
• Add more vegetables like carrots or zucchini to the filling for extra flavor and texture.

Enjoy your delicious Peperoni Ripieni!