Vida Recetas Editorial
Rocoto relleno is one of the most emblematic dishes of Peruvian cuisine, originally from Arequipa. This spicy pepper is stuffed with a flavorful mixture of ground beef, rice, cheese, and spices, then baked until golden. Unlike other chilies, the rocoto has an intense but fruity heat that softens when cooked and balances with the cheese and meat.
This recipe is perfect for those seeking a hearty and flavorful main course, ideal for special occasions or to impress lovers of Peruvian cooking. Although the spiciness can be a challenge, it can be moderated by removing the veins and seeds, as indicated in the preparation. The result is a juicy, gratinated dish with a perfect balance of spicy, salty, and creamy.
There are variations that include olives, raisins, or even hard-boiled eggs in the filling, but this classic version with Parmesan and mozzarella cheese is foolproof. It is traditionally served with golden potatoes and a fresh salad, but it is also delicious on its own. If you like spicy food, this dish will become your favorite.
Prep
60 min
Servings
4
Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C).
Cut the tops off the Rocoto peppers and remove the seeds.
Place the peppers in a pot of boiling water and cook for 5 minutes. Drain and set aside.
In a skillet, heat some vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the onions and garlic, and cook until softened.
Add the ground beef, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook until the beef is browned.
Stir in the cooked rice, Parmesan cheese, and tomato sauce. Cook for another 5 minutes.
Stuff the Rocoto peppers with the meat mixture and place them in a baking dish.
Pour the beef broth over the stuffed peppers.
Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese on top.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the cheese is melted and golden.
Serve hot and enjoy your delicious Rocoto Relleno!
This recipe has a medium difficulty level, which means it's accessible for cooks of all levels.
The preparation time is 60 minutes and the cooking time is minutes.
This recipe is designed for 4 servings.
Yes, many ingredients can be substituted with similar alternatives. We recommend checking the recipe variations.
Store the preparation in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container. Some preparations can be frozen for up to 3 months.
