Capsicums are one the most convenient ingredients to work with. They have a distinctive flavour that makes them delicious when eaten by themselves or as part of other dishes. Also known as bell peppers, they usually come in 3 lovely colours: green, yellow and red. They can be fried, baked, stuffed, blended, etc. and each time, they have a different taste! In India, green capsicums are a common ingredient in many preparations. Shimla Mirch ki Sabzi is one of the most popular ones. We also add pieces of capsicums to paneer tikka and kebab skewers to give an extra crunch. Besides this, we use chopped capsicums in a range of salads, appetisers and other dishes. But why limit yourself to these? We have put together a list of recipes that use capsicum in more exciting ways:
Also Read: This Easy Cutting Trick For Capsicum Or Bell Peppers Will Make Prep Time Vanish
5 Interesting And Delicious Capsicum Recipes | Best Bell Pepper Recipes | Easy Shimla Mirch Recipes
1. Capsicum Chutney
Yes, you read that right. You can use capsicums to make a delicious and flavourful chutney. The recipe you must try is a South Indian-style capsicum chutney that you can pair with your dosas and idlis. Also known as Kudamilagai Chutney, its key ingredient is typically red capsicums - but you can also use the other kinds. To make this chutney, all you need to do is roast urad dal in oil with red chillies, cumin seeds and garlic. Add chopped onions, tomatoes, capsicum and salt and saute till the vegetables are cooked. This mixture is then blended and tempered with a hot tadka. Click here for the full recipe.
2. Spicy Red Capsicum Dip (Muhammara Dip)
Red Pepper Dip: This spicy Middle Eastern Dip is made using capsicums, walnuts, pomegranates and more. Photo Credit: iStock
If you want to give your meal an exotic twist, make this tangy and spicy red capsicum dip. Muhammara Dip is generally believed to be of Middle Eastern origin. It is commonly found on mezze platters alongside pita bread and hummus. This dip derives its lovely smoky flavour from charred bell peppers. It also contains walnuts, pomegranates, chillies, olive oil, lemon juice and breadcrumbs. It is simple to make but is quite impressive to taste. Here's the full recipe. Did you know you can make red pepper hummus too? Click here for the recipe.
3. Corn Stuffed Capsicums
Corn and cheese are always a fantastic combination. Adding capsicum to this yummy duet just takes things to the next level. Corn-stuffed capsicums are made by preparing a cheesy corn mixture seasoned with a variety of spices. This stuffing is later added into hollowed-out green capsicums. They are then baked or grilled - and as they cook the cheese on top melts and bubbles! Our mouths are watering already. Click here for the full recipe. Want a non-veg version of this dish? Then you must try Chicken Stuffed Peppers. The capsicums here are filled with yummy kheema and topped with cheese. Read the recipe here.
4. Kacche Kele ki Asharfi
You might find this recipe unusual since it contains bananasand potatoes and capsicums. But that does not mean it is any less tasty. The delicate combination of flavours makes this snack an unexpected treat. Stuffing is made of mashed potatoes, bananas, sauteed onions and spices. This filling is then added into deseeded whole capsicum 'cups.' The cups are then sliced and shallow fried. Click here for the full recipe for Kacche Kele ki Asharfi.
Also Read: Have You Tried Banana Kebabs? Here Are 4 Delicious Recipes To Get You Started
5. Bharwan Capsicum Omelette
Did you know you can cook eggs inside a capsicum? Don't believe us? Then try this recipe for yourself and see. This dish is perfect for those who love capsicums, eggs and experiments! To make Bharwan Capsicum Omelette, whisk eggs along with chopped tomatoes, onions and seasonings of choice. Add the egg mixture into a cleaned capsicum cup, top with cheese and bake until done. So simple and so yummy! Click here for the complete recipe.
Also Read: Low-Carb Diet: This Lauki, Tomato And Capsicum Salad Is A Dieter's Dream Come True
The next time you are cooking with capsicums, choose one of these recipes! You'll thank us later.