Island Twist: Mexican Stuffed Peppers Recipe, Hawaiian Style

In the lush beauty of Hawaii, where local ingredients mix seamlessly with culinary traditions from around the world, Mexican stuffed peppers take on a new twist. This beloved dish, featuring colorful bell peppers packed with a vibrant blend of seasoned meat, rice, and cheese, feels right at home in the islands. The mix of zesty Mexican flavors, paired with the sweetness of fresh bell peppers, creates a deliciously balanced meal that’s perfect for any Hawaiian dinner table.

Photo byNick Davies

Imagine sitting down to a platter of these mouth-watering stuffed peppers, the cheese bubbling on top, and the aroma of roasted peppers filling the air. Each pepper is loaded with savory, seasoned ground beef or chicken, cooked rice, fire-roasted tomatoes, and warm Mexican spices like cumin and chili powder. It’s a dish that’s not only visually stunning but also packed with flavor, making it a crowd-pleaser for family gatherings or friendly get-togethers.

Recipe: Hawaiian-Inspired Mexican Stuffed Peppers

Ingredients:

• 6 large bell peppers (use a mix of red, green, and yellow for a colorful presentation)
• 1 pound ground beef or chicken
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 can (14 oz) fire-roasted diced tomatoes
• 1 cup cooked rice (swap with quinoa for a healthier option)
• 1 ¼ cups shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese
• Fresh cilantro for garnish
• Optional: salsa, sour cream, avocado, lime wedges for serving

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. Place the peppers in a baking dish.
2. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Sauté the onions until softened, about 3 minutes. Add the garlic and ground meat, cooking until browned. Drain any excess fat.
3. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, and diced tomatoes with their juices. Simmer for a few minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
4. Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the cooked rice and ¾ cup of the shredded cheese.
5. Stuff each pepper with the filling mixture. Top with the remaining cheese.
6. Pour a little water into the baking dish, just enough to cover the bottom. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes, until the peppers are tender.
7. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
8. Serve hot with your favorite toppings like salsa, sour cream, avocado, and a squeeze of lime.

A Perfect Blend of Cultures

Mexican stuffed peppers bring a taste of mainland cuisine to the Hawaiian table, offering a bold mix of spices and hearty fillings that fit perfectly with the island's diverse food culture. With ingredients like sweet bell peppers and zesty seasonings, this dish blends well with traditional Hawaiian accompaniments like a fresh pineapple or mango salad. Whether for a casual family dinner or a festive occasion, this recipe adds an exciting twist to your typical island fare.

For more detailed recipes and tips on how to perfect your stuffed peppers, check out sources like (foodiecrush)ps​(Well Plated)sh.com​(Small Town Woman)rs/), WellPlated, and Small Town Woman.