Stuffed Pepper Soup

Stuffed Pepper Soup is a hearty and flavorful dish that captures all the delicious elements of traditional stuffed peppers in a convenient and comforting soup form. This recipe combines Italian sausage, lean ground beef, vibrant bell peppers, and aromatic spices to create a satisfying meal perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 lb. Italian sausage
• 1/2 lb. lean ground beef
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 green pepper, finely chopped
• 1 red pepper, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups low-sodium beef broth
• 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth or vegetable broth
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) salsa-style tomatoes
• 3/4 cup uncooked quick-cooking rice (such as jasmine)
• Kosher salt and fresh ground black pepper

Directions:

1. In a heavy stockpot or Dutch oven over medium heat, brown the Italian sausage and ground beef, breaking up the meat as it cooks.
2. About halfway through the browning process, add the onions and bell peppers, stirring occasionally. In the last minute of browning time, reduce the heat to medium-low and add the minced garlic, stirring constantly. Drain any excess grease.
3. Add the beef broth, chicken broth, and salsa-style tomatoes to the pot. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for about 15 minutes or until the peppers just begin to soften.
4. Stir in the rice, ensuring it is evenly coated with the broth mixture. Cover and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes or until the rice is tender.
5. Season the soup with kosher salt and fresh ground black pepper to taste.
6. For best results, serve the Stuffed Pepper Soup promptly.

Tips:

• Feel free to customize this soup according to your preferences. You can adjust the spiciness by choosing mild or hot Italian sausage, and you can also add additional vegetables like carrots or celery for extra flavor and nutrition.
• If you prefer a thicker soup, you can add more rice or reduce the amount of broth used.
• Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for longer-term storage. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.

Conclusion:
Stuffed Pepper Soup is a delicious and satisfying meal that’s perfect for cozy nights at home or entertaining friends and family. With its rich flavors and hearty ingredients, this soup is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Enjoy the warmth and comfort of this comforting dish with every spoonful!

1. Can I use different types of meat in this soup?

• Absolutely! While the recipe calls for a combination of Italian sausage and lean ground beef, you can certainly customize it to suit your taste preferences. Consider using ground turkey, chicken, or even a meatless substitute like crumbled tofu for a vegetarian version. Just keep in mind that different meats may alter the flavor profile slightly, so adjust seasonings accordingly.

1. What can I substitute for the jasmine rice?

• If jasmine rice is not available or you prefer a different type of rice, feel free to substitute it with another quick-cooking variety such as white rice, brown rice, or even quinoa. Adjust the cooking time as needed based on the specific type of grain you choose. Keep in mind that certain grains may absorb liquid differently, so you may need to adjust the amount of broth accordingly.

1. Is it possible to make this soup ahead of time?

• Yes, you can definitely prepare Stuffed Pepper Soup ahead of time for easy meal planning and convenience. Simply follow the recipe instructions up to the point of adding the rice. Once the soup has simmered and the peppers have softened, allow it to cool completely before refrigerating in an airtight container. When ready to serve, reheat the soup gently on the stovetop, adding the rice during the final cooking stages. You may need to adjust the consistency with additional broth or water as the rice will continue to absorb liquid as it sits.

1. Can I freeze leftovers of this soup?

• Absolutely! Stuffed Pepper Soup freezes exceptionally well, making it an ideal option for batch cooking and meal prep. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or resealable plastic bags. Be sure to leave some room at the top of the containers to allow for expansion as the soup freezes. Properly stored, the soup can be kept in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw the soup overnight in the refrigerator before reheating it on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through. You may need to add a splash of broth or water to adjust the consistency as needed.