Stuffed Pepper Delight: Carnitas & Bell Pepper Fusion

Carnitas Stuffed PeppersPhoto byFood Fusion Frenzy

Carnitas Stuffed Peppers are a delicious and nutritious dish that combines tender, flavorful pork carnitas with vibrant bell peppers.

Get the Recipe Details: Carnitas Stuffed Peppers

Ingredients

• For the Carnitas:
• • 2 pounds pork shoulder, cut into large chunks
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 onion, quartered
  • 4 cloves garlic, smashed
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon oregano
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup orange juice
  • 1/2 cup lime juice
  • 1 cup chicken broth
• For the Stuffed Peppers:
• • 6 large bell peppers (any color), tops cut off and seeds removed
  • 2 cups cooked rice (white or brown)
  • 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen)
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup tomatillo salsa (store-bought or homemade)
  • Additional cheese for topping (optional)
  • Lime wedges (for serving)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Carnitas:
2. • In a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
   • Add the pork shoulder chunks and sear on all sides until browned about 8-10 minutes.
   • Add the quartered onion, smashed garlic, cumin, oregano, salt, and black pepper to the pot.
   • Pour in the orange juice, lime juice, and chicken broth.
   • Bring to a simmer, then cover and reduce the heat to low. Cook for 2-3 hours, or until the pork is tender and easily shreddable.
   • Once cooked, remove the pork from the pot and shred it using two forks. Discard any large pieces of fat.
3. Prepare the Peppers:
4. • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
   • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the bell peppers and cook for 3-4 minutes to soften them slightly. Remove and drain well.
5. Make the Stuffing:
6. • In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded carnitas, cooked rice, black beans, corn, shredded cheese, chopped cilantro, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
   • Mix until all ingredients are well combined.
7. Assemble the Stuffed Peppers:
8. • Place the bell peppers upright in a baking dish.
   • Fill each pepper with the carnitas mixture, packing it down gently.
   • Spoon a tablespoon of tomatillo salsa on top of each stuffed pepper.
   • If desired, sprinkle additional cheese on top of the salsa.
9. Bake:
10. • Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the oven for 25 minutes.
    • Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
11. Serve:
12. • Let the stuffed peppers cool slightly before serving.
    • Garnish with extra chopped cilantro and serve with lime wedges on the side for an extra burst of flavor.
    • Enjoy your Carnitas Stuffed Peppers hot, and savor the delicious blend of Mexican-inspired flavors!

Conclusion

Carnitas Stuffed Peppers are a flavorful and satisfying dish that brings together the rich taste of pork carnitas with the freshness of bell peppers. This dish is perfect for a hearty dinner and can be easily customized with your favorite ingredients. Enjoy this delightful meal with family and friends for a truly enjoyable dining experience!