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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