Lamb and Couscous Stuffed Peppers
This delicious and healthy dish features bell peppers stuffed with a flavorful mixture of ground lamb, couscous, and aromatic spices. Perfect for a family dinner, this recipe combines the rich taste of lamb with the light, fluffy texture of couscous, creating a satisfying meal that’s sure to impress.
- Prep Time: 20 min
- Cook Time: 45 min
- Total Time: 1 hr 5 min
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients
- 4 large bell peppers (any color)
- 1 pound ground lamb
- 1 cup couscous
- 1 1/4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Prepare the Peppers: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. Lightly brush the insides and outsides of the peppers with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and place them in a baking dish. Roast in the preheated oven for 15 minutes.
2. Cook the Couscous: In a small saucepan, bring the broth to a boil. Stir in the couscous, cover, and remove from heat. Let it stand for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork.
3. Prepare the Filling: In a large skillet, heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add the ground lamb, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
4. Season the Filling: Stir in the cumin, coriander, cinnamon, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Cook for another 2 minutes to let the spices bloom. Remove from heat and stir in the cooked couscous, parsley, mint, and crumbled feta cheese.
5. Stuff the Peppers: Remove the bell peppers from the oven and let cool slightly. Fill each pepper with the lamb and couscous mixture, pressing down gently to pack the filling.
6. Bake: Return the stuffed peppers to the oven and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, until the peppers are tender and the filling is heated through.
7. Serve: Let the stuffed peppers cool slightly before serving. Garnish with additional chopped parsley or mint, if desired.
Notes
Pairing Suggestions: Serve these stuffed peppers with a side of Greek yogurt mixed with lemon juice and fresh herbs, or a simple green salad.
To Ensure Success: Be sure to roast the peppers first to ensure they are tender. If you prefer softer peppers, cover the baking dish with foil during the final baking stage.
Variations: You can substitute ground beef or turkey for the lamb, and quinoa or rice for the couscous if desired.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 stuffed pepper
- Calories: Approximately 400 calories