Stuffed Poblano Peppers are roasted, then packed with a hearty rice mixture of spices, beans, zucchini and corn. With easy prep ahead and freezer friendly options, these vegetarian stuffed poblano peppers are a family favorite! Make the stuffing and avocado cream up to two days ahead for meal prep. Or make the entire recipe, refrigerate and bake the next evening. The stuffing can also be frozen for longer storage. This recipe is vegetarian, easily vegan and gluten free.
Set one oven rack to the top of the oven, another rack in the center and preheat oven to broil.
Make one slit in each of the poblanos from the stem to tip (the seeds will be removed after roasting). Arrange evenly on a baking sheet. Place the poblanos on the top rack.
Using tongs, turn the poblanos about every 2 - 3 minutes for a total of about 8 - 10 minutes, OR until they're nice and charred (blistered) on each side. Remove from oven and transfer the peppers to a covered container to steam for about 10 minutes (this makes them easier to peel). The peppers will be softish at this point. Lower the oven temperature to 375 Fahrenheit (190 Celsius).
Once the peppers are steamed, carefully peel the skins off the peppers, working the seeds out with a little bit of running water (this helps them cool as well) and a gentle knife keeping the peppers in tact as best you can. Pat dry and set aside.
For the Stuffing:
While the peppers are roasting, in a medium sauce pot or Dutch oven, add the oil and heat on medium until shimmering. Add the onion and bell pepper and saute' on medium low for about 5 minutes or until softened. Add the rice and stir for two minutes, slightly toasting. To the rice mixture add the salt, cumin, paprika, chili powder, and garlic and stir for about 1 minute or until spices are fragrant. Stir in the tomato paste, salsa and broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Lid the pot and cook for about 16-18 minutes, or until the rice in tender. Remove lid and stir. The rice will be moist and creamy. Remove from heat. If the rice is sticking add a splash of water. Stir. Relid and allow to rest off heat for 10 minutes.
Stir in the zucchini, corn, beans and cheese (if using). Squeeze in the lime juice. Stir. Taste for salt adjustment. Set aside.
Assemble and Bake:
Lightly oil (or use pan spray) a casserole dish and set aside.Carefully stuff each pepper with the stuffing, shaping the pepper around the stuffing. Transfer to the casserole, laying the peppers snugly against each other. MAKE AHEAD: At this point the peppers can be covered with foil and held in the fridge for up to two days. Bake as directed.Cover the baker with foil, then bake in a 375 Fahrenheit oven for about 20 minutes or until heated through.
For the Avocado Cream (optional):
In a food processor add the avocado, cilantro, jalapeño, salt, lemon, and cumin. Whirl ingredients while drizzling about 1/3 cup (78 grams) of water in. The cream should be thin enough to slather or dip. Thin to desired consistency.
To Serve:
Serve family style right out of the casserole with sliced avocado, cilantro, sour cream, salsa and lime wedges.
Store in a lidded container in the refrigerator for up to three days or freeze for up to two weeks. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight, cover and rewarm in a 350 Fahrenheit oven for about 20 minutes.