Craving that iconic Chicago taste? Portillo's sweet peppers are legendary, and while the exact recipe remains a closely guarded secret, we've cracked the code to bring you a deliciously close rendition. This easy recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun weekend cookout. Get ready to experience the vibrant flavors of Chicago in your own home! This recipe delivers a healthy and delicious meal – perfect for those seeking easy recipes and healthy meal ideas.
Ingredients:
- 1 large green bell pepper, cored, seeded, and thinly sliced
- 1 large red bell pepper, cored, seeded, and thinly sliced
- 1 large yellow bell pepper, cored, seeded, and thinly sliced
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon yellow mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
-
Sauté the Veggies: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and peppers and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. This step is crucial for building the flavour base of our delicious dish.
-
Simmer the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the beef broth, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, yellow mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
-
Combine and Cook: Pour the sauce over the cooked vegetables in the skillet. Bring the mixture to a simmer, reduce heat to low, and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly and the peppers are tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
-
Serve and Enjoy: Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired. Serve hot as a side dish, or enjoy it as a delicious vegetarian main course. This quick dinner idea is perfect for busy weeknights!
Tips for Success:
- Bell Pepper Selection: Choose brightly colored bell peppers for the best flavor and visual appeal.
- Don't Overcrowd the Pan: If you have a large quantity of peppers, cook them in batches to ensure even cooking and prevent steaming.
- Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Feel free to adjust the amount of salt, pepper, and other seasonings to suit your preferences. This homemade cooking method allows for easy customization.
- Thicker Sauce: For a thicker sauce, simmer for a longer time or add a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with a little cold water to the sauce during the last few minutes of cooking.
Variations:
- Spicy Sweet Peppers: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Add Protein: For a heartier meal, add cooked ground beef, Italian sausage, or chicken to the skillet along with the vegetables.
- Different Vinegars: Experiment with different types of vinegar, such as white wine vinegar or balsamic vinegar, for a unique flavor profile.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 150
- Fat: 8g
- Protein: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 3g
This simple yet flavorful recipe provides a delicious and healthy option for a quick weeknight dinner. The best recipes are often the easiest, and this one truly delivers on taste and convenience. Enjoy your homemade Portillo's-inspired sweet peppers!