Armenian Stuffed Peppers with Lamb
Tjvjik
Tender bell peppers stuffed with a savory mixture of ground lamb, rice, and aromatic herbs, simmered in a flavorful tomato-based sauce. This dish is a comforting and classic Armenian staple, perfect for a hearty meal.

๐ง Ingredients
- 6 Large bell peppers
- 500 g Ground lamb
- 0.75 cup Short-grain rice, uncooked
- 1 medium Onion, finely chopped
- 4 Garlic cloves, minced
- 0.5 cup Fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 3 tbsp Tomato paste
- 1 tsp Ground cumin
- 0.5 tsp Paprika
- 1 tsp Salt
- 1 tsp Black pepper
- 1 cup Tomato sauce
- 2 cups Broth (vegetable or chicken)
๐จโ๐ณ Instructions
- 1
Prepare the peppers: Wash and dry the bell peppers. Slice off the tops and carefully scoop out the seeds and membranes, keeping the peppers intact. Set aside.
๐ก Tip: Try to remove as little of the pepper as possible when cutting off the tops to create a good seal. - 2
Make the filling: In a large bowl, combine the ground lamb, uncooked rice, chopped onion, minced garlic, chopped parsley, tomato paste, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined.
๐ก Tip: Ensure the rice is uncooked, as it will absorb liquid and expand during cooking. - 3
Stuff the peppers: Generously fill each prepared bell pepper with the lamb and rice mixture. Pack it in, but leave a little room at the top as the rice will expand.
๐ก Tip: Don't overstuff the peppers, as the rice needs space to cook and expand. - 4
Arrange and cook: Place the stuffed peppers upright in a large pot or Dutch oven. Pour the tomato sauce and broth over and around the peppers.
๐ก Tip: Ensure the liquid comes up at least halfway on the peppers. - 5
Simmer the stew: Bring the liquid to a gentle boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot tightly (you can place a plate on top of the peppers to keep them submerged), and simmer for 45-60 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the rice is fully cooked.
๐ก Tip: A plate placed upside down on top of the peppers helps to keep them submerged in the cooking liquid. - 6
Serve: Carefully remove the stuffed peppers from the pot. Spoon some of the cooking liquid over them. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot.
๐ก Tip: This dish is excellent served with a side of yogurt or a fresh salad.
๐ก Pro Tips
- โFor a richer flavor, you can add a tablespoon of olive oil to the filling mixture.
- โIf you don't have lamb, ground beef or a mixture of beef and lamb can be used.
- โAdjust the amount of spices to your personal preference.
โจ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add other vegetables like finely chopped zucchini or eggplant to the filling.
- For a spicier version, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the filling.
- Serve with a dollop of plain yogurt or a side of labneh.