Romanian Stuffed Peppers (Ardei Umpluti) Recipe

If you have a soft spot for comforting, soul-warming dishes then you are in for a treat with these Romanian Stuffed Peppers (Ardei Umpluti). This classic Romanian specialty brings together sweet Hungarian peppers packed with a luscious mixture of juicy pork, fragrant herbs, and rice, all lovingly simmered in a creamy tomato sauce. It’s pure family-style comfort food that fills your kitchen with irresistible aromas and leaves everyone reaching for seconds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of Romanian Stuffed Peppers (Ardei Umpluti) lies in its humble yet thoughtfully combined ingredients. Each element plays a key role—sweet peppers provide the perfect vessel, the seasoned pork and rice filling bring juicy texture and flavor, and the silky tomato sauce ties everything together with a creamy tang.

• 10 medium sweet Hungarian peppers: These hold the filling perfectly and soften beautifully during baking.
• 1½ pounds ground pork: The backbone of the filling, juicy and flavorful.
• ½ cup uncooked rice: Adds substance and soaks up the savory juices inside the pepper.
• 1 chopped onion: For sweetness and depth of flavor.
• 1 egg: Helps bind the filling ingredients together.
• ¼ cup fresh dill, chopped: Offers an aromatic, fresh lift essential in Romanian cuisine.
• ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped: Adds greenery and a mild herbal note.
• ½ teaspoon salt and ¼ teaspoon pepper: To perfectly season the filling.
• 2 cups tomato puree or passata: Forms the rich, creamy sauce base.
• ½ cup sour cream: Makes the tomato sauce luxuriously creamy and tangy.
• 2 cups water: To help the peppers cook gently and infuse the sauce.

How to Make Romanian Stuffed Peppers (Ardei Umpluti)

Step 1: Prep the Peppers

Start by carefully cutting off the tops of your sweet Hungarian peppers. Scoop out all seeds and membranes to create hollow vessels, perfect for stuffing. To ensure they stand upright while cooking, trim a small flat edge from each pepper’s bottom. This simple trick keeps them balanced in the baking dish throughout the slow simmer.

Step 2: Mix the Filling

In a large bowl, combine the ground pork, uncooked rice, chopped onion, egg, dill, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix everything until the ingredients are well incorporated and the mixture feels cohesive. This filling will burst with flavor once cooked, thanks to the fresh herbs and seasoning.

Step 3: Stuff the Peppers

Stuff each pepper generously with the pork and rice mixture, packing it tightly yet gently so the filling holds together during baking. Place the stuffed peppers upright in a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven. This ensures even cooking and helps maintain their beautiful shape.

Step 4: Prepare and Add the Sauce

Whisk together the tomato puree with sour cream, water, salt, and pepper to create a creamy sauce that simmers around the peppers. Pour this mixture over the peppers in the pot until it reaches about halfway up their sides, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully during baking.

Step 5: Cook the Peppers

Cover the pot tightly with a lid or foil and bake at 375℉ for 1½ hours. This slow cooking softens the peppers and lets the pork and rice become tender and juicy. Then, remove the cover and bake uncovered for another 45 minutes to 1 hour. The peppers are done when a fork slides easily through them, the meat is cooked through, and the rice is tender.

How to Serve Romanian Stuffed Peppers (Ardei Umpluti)

Garnishes

A generous dollop of sour cream on top adds the perfect tangy creaminess that complements the hearty filling. Sprinkle extra fresh dill or parsley over the dish to brighten up every bite with a burst of color and freshness.

Side Dishes

Serve your Romanian Stuffed Peppers with crusty bread ready for dipping into the rich tomato sauce. A simple green salad or lightly sautéed leafy greens balance the richness and add a crisp contrast to the tender peppers.

Creative Ways to Present

For a family-style feast, arrange the stuffed peppers in a large shallow dish with plenty of sauce visible around them. If entertaining, consider plating individually with a swirl of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh herbs to showcase each pepper’s charming shape and colorful appeal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Romanian Stuffed Peppers (Ardei Umpluti) keep beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. The flavors even deepen after resting, making leftovers a delight to enjoy cold or reheated.

Freezing

These peppers freeze exceptionally well. Once completely cooled, wrap each pepper individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They can stay frozen for 6 to 8 months without losing their hearty taste or texture.

Reheating

For best results, thaw frozen peppers overnight in the fridge. Reheat gently in the oven at 350℉ until warmed through, preserving the tender texture of the peppers and keeping the sauce creamy and inviting.

FAQs

Can I use other types of meat for the filling?

Absolutely! While the traditional recipe calls for ground pork, you can substitute ground beef, turkey, or even a mix of meats depending on your preference. The key is to maintain that juicy, well-seasoned filling.

Is it necessary to cook the rice before stuffing the peppers?

No, the rice is added uncooked because it slowly cooks inside the pepper, soaking up the flavorful juices from the meat and sauce during baking. This method ensures the rice stays tender but not mushy.

Can I make Romanian Stuffed Peppers (Ardei Umpluti) vegetarian?

Yes! You can replace the meat with a blend of cooked lentils, mushrooms, or plant-based ground substitutes. Remember to adjust seasonings and possibly increase the egg or a binder for structure.

What is the best pepper to use?

Sweet Hungarian peppers or sweet yellow dove bell peppers are ideal because of their shape and natural sweetness. They soften beautifully without becoming too mushy and complement the savory filling.

How do I know when the peppers are done?

They are perfectly cooked when the skin and filling are tender to a fork and the rice is fully cooked through. The sauce will be bubbling and creamy, coating the peppers in a luscious finish.

Final Thoughts

Nothing beats the warmth and hearty satisfaction of Romanian Stuffed Peppers (Ardei Umpluti). This cherished family recipe invites you to slow down and enjoy the comforting flavors of lovingly cooked food made with simple ingredients. Whether you’re new to Romanian cuisine or a longtime fan, these stuffed peppers are a dish that feels like a big, delicious hug from the inside. Get those peppers ready and savor every bite!