Pimentão de São Paulo
Background and History
Pimentão de São Paulo, a vibrant and flavorful Brazilian dish, celebrates the rich cultural heritage of São Paulo. This delightful recipe showcases the diverse influences that have shaped São Paulo's culinary scene over the centuries. From indigenous roots to European and African influences, the dish tells a story of flavor fusion, bringing together vibrant bell peppers, savory spices, and hearty fillings typically enjoyed by locals and visitors alike.
Ingredients
- Bell Peppers: 4 large, red preferred for sweetness
- Ground Beef: 500g, ensuring a lean meat
- Onion: 1 large, finely chopped
- Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons for sautéing
- Tomato: 2 medium, chopped
- Rice: 1 cup, cooked
- Parsley: Fresh, roughly chopped for garnish
- Salt: To taste
- Black Pepper: Freshly ground, to taste
- Paprika: 1 teaspoon, for added flavor
- Breadcrumb: For topping
Preparation Process
Begin by preheating your oven to 180°C (356°F) to ensure a hot environment for baking the Bell Peppers. Meanwhile, wash the Bell Peppers, cut their tops, and remove the seeds. Set them aside to be filled later.
Cooking the Filling
In a large skillet, heat Olive Oil over medium heat. Add Onion and Garlic, sautéing until fragrant. Introduce the Ground Beef to the skillet, cooking thoroughly until browned.
As the Ground Beef cooks, add Tomato, Paprika, Salt, and Black Pepper. Reduce the heat and allow the mixture to simmer until the Tomato begins to disintegrate, forming a rich base. This step ensures a flavorful stuffing for the Bell Peppers.
Next, incorporate the pre-cooked Rice into the beef mixture. Stir thoroughly to combine the flavors and remove from heat. Taste for seasoning adjustments, adding more Salt or Black Pepper as preferred.
Assembling the Pimentão
Generously fill each Bell Pepper with the prepared beef and rice mixture. Top with a sprinkle of Breadcrumb to add a delightful crust upon baking.
Carefully place the stuffed and topped Bell Peppers in a baking dish and cover loosely with foil. Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 30 minutes, checking with a cooking timer to ensure even cooking.
Remove the foil for the last 10 minutes of baking, allowing the tops to become golden and slightly crisp. Once baked, garnish with freshly chopped Parsley, enhancing both appearance and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Pimentão de São Paulo is versatile, often enjoyed with a side of salad or crusty bread. This hearty dish pairs well with a glass of bold red wine, such as a Brazilian Cabernet Sauvignon, to counterbalance the robust flavors of the filling.
For a complete São Paulo dining experience, consider serving the Pimentão alongside Rice and Beans, a staple pairing in Brazilian cuisine. Whether shared among friends or savored as a cozy solo meal, this dish celebrates the vibrant culinary tapestry of São Paulo.
Conclusion
By making Pimentão de São Paulo, you not only create a mouthwatering meal but also bring a piece of Brazilian culture to your dining table. With this recipe, you can explore São Paulo's diverse flavors in your kitchen and enjoy a global culinary journey.