Stuffed Cheese (curaçaoan Keshi Yena)

Stuffed Cheese, known as Curaçaoan Keshi Yena, is a traditional dish from the Caribbean island of Curaçao. This flavorful and hearty meal is a perfect representation of the island's diverse culinary influences.

Stuffed Cheese (curaçaoan Keshi Yena)

Ingredients

  • 4 large bell peppers
  • 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
  • 1 cup cooked rice
  • 1 cup diced tomatoes
  • 1 cup diced onions
  • 1 cup diced bell peppers (from tops of the large bell peppers)
  • 2 cups shredded cheese
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Cut the tops off the large bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes.
  3. In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cooked rice, diced tomatoes, diced onions, diced bell peppers, shredded cheese, tomato paste, olive oil, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
  4. Stuff the mixture into the hollowed-out bell peppers.
  5. Place the stuffed bell peppers in a baking dish and cover with foil.
  6. Bake for 45 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
  7. Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.

Cooking & Preparation

Preparation time:
30 minutes
Cooking time:
1 hour
Total time:
1 hour
Cooking method
Stovetop

Nutritional facts per 1 serving

Calories
350 per serving
Protein
20g
Carbohydrates
15g
Fat
25g

Supplies

Baking dish Foil

Tools

Knife Large bowl

Serving suggestions

Serve the stuffed cheese with a side of plantains and a refreshing tropical fruit salad.

Tips & tricks

For a spicier version, add some diced jalapeños to the filling mixture.

Cost

$20