19 Mar 2025
Cook time 15 min
Prep time 35 min
Ingredients:
2 red hot chili peppers
1/2 cup feta cheese
1 tbsp basil
1 tsp dried oregano
Hot and spicy stuffed chillies are a bold and flavorful appetizer or side dish that packs a punch. Combining the heat of red hot chili peppers with the creamy texture of feta cheese and aromatic herbs like basil and oregano, this dish is perfect for those who enjoy a bit of spice in their meals.
Instructions:
1. Preparation:
- Wash the red hot chili peppers thoroughly under running water. Pat them dry with a clean towel.
- Remove the stems from the chili peppers. Using a sharp knife, make a lengthwise slit down one side of each chili pepper. Be careful not to cut through the entire pepper. Gently open the slit and use a small spoon or knife to remove the seeds and membranes. This will reduce some of the heat and make space for the stuffing.
2. Prepare the Stuffing:
- In a mixing bowl, crumble the feta cheese into small pieces.
- Finely chop the basil leaves and add them to the bowl with the feta cheese.
- Add the dried oregano to the bowl.
- Mix the feta cheese, basil, and oregano until well combined.
3. Stuff the Chili Peppers:
- Using your fingers or a small spoon, gently stuff each chili pepper with the feta cheese mixture. Press the stuffing in firmly, but be careful not to tear the peppers.
- Ensure that the stuffing is evenly distributed and the peppers are filled to capacity.
4. Cook the Stuffed Chilies:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Place the stuffed chili peppers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased with a bit of oil.
- Bake the stuffed chili peppers in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the peppers start to soften and the cheese begins to turn golden.
5. Serving:
- Remove the stuffed chili peppers from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes.
- Transfer the hot and spicy stuffed chilies to a serving plate. Garnish with extra chopped basil if desired.
- Serve as an appetizer or side dish and enjoy!
Tips:
- For a milder version, you can use milder peppers such as jalapeños or bell peppers.
- Make sure to wear gloves while handling the chili peppers to avoid skin irritation.
- If you prefer a creamier stuffing, you can blend the feta cheese with a bit of cream cheese.
- To enhance the flavor, you can grill the stuffed chillies for a few minutes before serving.
Hot and spicy stuffed chillies are an excellent choice for spice enthusiasts looking to try something new. With just a few simple ingredients and some handy tips, you can easily create this delicious and fiery dish that's sure to impress. Enjoy your culinary creation with friends and family!