Delicious and Nutritious Vegan Quinoa Stuffed Peppers

These vegan quinoa stuffed peppers are a perfect combination of flavors and textures. The quinoa is cooked with a mix of aromatic vegetables and spices until fluffy and tender. Then it is stuffed into bell peppers and baked until the peppers are soft and slightly caramelized. This dish is both healthy and satisfying, making it a great option for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

Ingredients

• 6 bell peppers (assorted colors)
• 1 cup quinoa
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 carrot, diced
• 1 zucchini, diced
• 1 cup mushrooms, diced
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/2 cup corn kernels
• 1/2 cup black beans, cooked and drained
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1/4 cup vegan cheese, shredded (optional)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare the bell peppers by cutting off the tops and removing the seeds and membranes. Set aside.
3. Rinse the quinoa under cold water to remove any bitterness.
4. In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, carrot, zucchini, and mushrooms. Sauté for 5 minutes, until the vegetables start to soften.
5. Add the quinoa, vegetable broth, cumin, paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper to the saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover. Simmer for 15-20 minutes, until the quinoa is cooked and the liquid is absorbed.
6. Remove the saucepan from the heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff the quinoa with a fork.
7. Stir in the corn, black beans, and cilantro into the quinoa mixture.
8. Place the bell peppers upright in a baking dish. Spoon the quinoa mixture into each pepper, packing it tightly.
9. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25-30 minutes, until the peppers are tender.
10. Remove the foil and sprinkle the vegan cheese on top, if desired. Bake for an additional 5 minutes, until the cheese is melted and slightly golden.
11. Serve the stuffed peppers warm, garnished with additional cilantro if desired.
12. Enjoy!

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