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Vegan Stuffed Bell Peppers Made Easy

★★★★ ☆ 4.1 (234)

These colorful stuffed bell peppers are packed with hearty veggies and flavorful spices, making them a satisfying meal for any night. Plus, they’re simple to prepare and perfect for anyone following a plant-based diet.

◷ 1 hr 10 min Total Time

♜ 4 Servings

▥ Hard Difficulty

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Ingredients

4 servings

1 ½ cups water ½ cup barley 2 large bell peppers 1 cup reduced-fat vegetarian refried beans (such as Ortega®) 1 pinch ground black pepper ¼ cup shredded mozzarella-style vegan cheese (such as Daiya®), or to taste (Optional)

Creamy Chicken Sandwich with Mayo

Instructions

Step 1

Start by bringing water and barley to a boil in a pot over high heat. Once boiling, cover it and lower the heat to a gentle simmer. Let it cook until most of the water is absorbed, which should take about 30 minutes. While the barley is cooking, set up a steamer by placing a steamer basket inside a saucepan filled with a bit of water—just enough so it doesn’t touch the basket. Bring the water to a boil, then add the bell peppers, cover, and steam them for around 5 minutes until they’re just tender. After steaming, rinse the peppers under cold water to stop the cooking, then carefully cut off the tops and save them for later.

Step 2

Once the barley is done, remove it from the heat and leave it covered for another 5 to 10 minutes to finish steaming. Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the barley to a large bowl and stir in the refried beans along with a good pinch of black pepper. Mix everything until well combined. Next, stuff each pepper with the barley and bean mixture, place them in a small baking dish, and sprinkle vegan cheese on top of the filling. Put the reserved pepper tops back on to cover them.

Step 3

Pop the dish into the oven and bake for about 30 minutes, until the filling is hot all the way through. Let the peppers cool for at least 5 minutes before serving—they’re delicious and comforting!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These peppers are packed with flavor and nutrients, making them a wholesome meal. They are colorful, satisfying, and perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a plant-based dish without sacrificing taste.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these peppers with a fresh green salad or a side of quinoa for a complete meal. A drizzle of tahini or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro adds a nice finishing touch.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to keep the peppers tender without drying out the filling.