Preheat oven to 350 and cook the rice according to package directions.
Meanwhile, brown the meat, onions, garlic, and olive oil together.
Add spices and tomato puree; let the mixture simmer for 10 – 15 minutes to absorb the flavors.
Add the cooked rice to the meat and tomato mixture.
Cut green peppers in half, deseed, and wash before placing peppers in a baking dish and stuffing with mixture.
Bake for 30 – 40 minutes or until peppers are tender. If cheese is desired, add it in the last 5 minutes or so of baking time. Serves 4.