Indian Stuffed Green Bell Peppers

The Versatility of Bell Peppers

Bell peppers, with their hollow interiors, are a versatile vegetable that can be stuffed with a variety of delicious fillings. In Indian cuisine, these peppers are often filled with a spicy mixture that includes ingredients such as rice, beans, lentils, potatoes, cottage cheese, and meat. The unique blend of spices used in Indian cooking gives these stuffed peppers their distinctive flavor.

What Makes Indian Stuffed Peppers Unique?

In India, bell peppers are known as "simla mirch," and the term "bharwa" means "stuffed." Thus, "bharwa simla mirch" refers to stuffed green bell peppers. The filling for these peppers often includes a mixture of cottage cheese and potatoes, which is enhanced by the addition of Indian spices and a hint of dry mango powder for a tangy twist.

Ingredients and Preparation

Ingredients

• 4 green bell peppers
• 200 grams cottage cheese, grated
• 1/2 cup cheese
• 3 medium potatoes, mashed
• Few sprigs of fresh cilantro
• 1-inch ginger, chopped
• 1 onion, chopped
• 12-15 raisins
• A handful of cashews
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• 1 teaspoon cumin powder
• 1 1/2 teaspoons cayenne pepper
• 2 teaspoons dry mango powder (amchur)
• Salt to taste
• 3 green chilies, chopped
• 2 tablespoons oil

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Slice the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds.
3. In a bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, raisins, cashews, cottage cheese, cilantro, spices, and salt.
4. Sauté the onions in oil over medium heat until soft and translucent.
5. Add the green chilies and ginger, and cook for a few more minutes.
6. Stir in the cottage cheese mixture and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
7. Stuff the bell peppers with the cooked filling.
8. Top each pepper with grated cheese and place them in a baking dish.
9. Bake for 15 minutes and serve hot.

Useful Tip

To enhance the flavor absorption, you can boil the bell peppers before stuffing them.

Nutritional Information

Interesting Facts

• Bell peppers are rich in vitamins A and C, making them a healthy addition to any meal. Source: Healthline
• The use of dry mango powder (amchur) in Indian cuisine adds a unique tangy flavor that is not commonly found in other cuisines. Source: The Spruce Eats

Conclusion

Indian stuffed green bell peppers, or "bharwa simla mirch," are a delicious and nutritious dish that showcases the versatility of bell peppers and the rich flavors of Indian spices. Whether served as a main course or a side dish, these stuffed peppers are sure to impress and delight your taste buds.

For more information on the health benefits of bell peppers, visit Healthline. To learn more about the use of spices in Indian cuisine, check out The Spruce Eats.