Bharwa Shimla Mirch (Stuffed Capsicum)
A flavorful Indian dish where bell peppers are stuffed with spiced potatoes and cooked to perfection.
Ingredients (Serves 4)
For the stuffing:
- 4 medium capsicums (bell peppers), any color
- 3 medium potatoes, boiled, peeled, and mashed
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 1 tomato, finely chopped (optional)
- ¼ cup green peas (fresh or frozen, optional)
- 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
- 1-2 green chilies, finely chopped
- 1 tsp cumin seeds
- ½ tsp turmeric powder
- 1 tsp red chili powder
- 1 tsp coriander powder
- 1 tsp garam masala
- Salt to taste
- 2 tbsp oil
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
For cooking:
- 2 tbsp oil
- ¼ cup water
Instructions
Prepare the capsicums:
Wash the capsicums. Cut off the tops (save them as lids) and remove seeds. Keep aside.
Make the stuffing:
- Heat 2 tbsp oil in a pan. Add cumin seeds and let them sizzle.
- Add chopped onions and sauté until golden. Stir in ginger-garlic paste and green chilies; cook for 1 minute.
- Add turmeric, red chili powder, coriander powder, and garam masala. Mix well.
- Add tomatoes (if using) and cook until soft and oil separates (~3-4 minutes).
- Toss in peas (if using) and sauté for 2 minutes.
- Add mashed potatoes and salt. Mix thoroughly. Cook for 2-3 minutes. Garnish with cilantro. Let the mixture cool slightly.
Stuff the capsicums:
Fill each capsicum with the potato mixture, pressing gently. Place the "lids" back on (optional).
Cook the stuffed capsicums:
- Heat 2 tbsp oil in a wide pan. Place the stuffed capsicums carefully in the pan.
- Cover and cook on low heat for 5-6 minutes, rotating occasionally to lightly brown all sides.
- Add ¼ cup water around the capsicums (not over them). Cover and steam for 8-10 minutes until tender.
Serve:
Garnish with cilantro. Serve hot with roti, naan, or rice. Pair with raita (yogurt dip) for a complete meal.
Tips:
- Add ½ tsp amchur (dry mango powder) to the stuffing for tanginess.
- For a richer version, replace potatoes with crumbled paneer (Indian cottage cheese).
- Adjust chili levels to your preference.
Enjoy this vibrant, aromatic dish that’s both wholesome and bursting with Indian spices! 🌶️✨
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