Bharwa Simla Mirch Recipe – Stuffed Capsicum Delight
Bharwa Shimla Mirch, or Stuffed Capsicum, is a popular North Indian dish where bell peppers are filled with a spiced potato mixture and cooked until tender. This flavorful recipe makes for a delightful side dish or main course.
- DIFFICULTY: EASY
- 25 MINS
Ingredients
- 4 medium-sized bell peppers (capsicum)
- 2 large potatoes, boiled and mashed
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon ginger-garlic paste
- 1 green chili, finely chopped (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
- Salt, to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon amchur (dry mango powder)
- 2 tablespoons oil
- Fresh coriander leaves, chopped (for garnish)
- Fresh coriander leaves, chopped (for garnish)
Method
Prepare the Bell Peppers:
- Wash the bell peppers thoroughly.
- Slice off the tops and remove the seeds to create hollow shells.
- Set aside the tops; they can be used as lids during cooking.
Prepare the Stuffing:
- Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Add cumin seeds and let them sizzle.
- Add finely chopped onions and sauté until translucent.
- Stir in ginger-garlic paste and green chili; sauté until the raw aroma disappears.
- Add turmeric powder, coriander powder, and salt; mix well.
- Add mashed potatoes and combine thoroughly with the spice mixture.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes, then add garam masala and amchur powder.
- Mix well and cook for another minute.
- Remove from heat and let the stuffing cool slightly.
Stuff the Bell Peppers:
- Fill each hollow bell pepper with the prepared potato stuffing, pressing gently to pack it in.
- Place the tops back on as lids, if desired.
Cook the Stuffed Peppers:
- Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a deep pan or skillet over low to medium heat.
- Place the stuffed bell peppers upright in the pan.
- Cover the pan and cook for about 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally to ensure even cooking.
- Cook until the bell peppers are tender and slightly charred.
Serving Suggestions
Garnish the Bharwa Shimla Mirch with freshly chopped coriander leaves. Serve hot with roti, paratha, or naan, accompanied by yogurt or raita for a complete meal.
Pro Tips
- Choose bell peppers of uniform size for even cooking.
- Adjust the spices in the stuffing to suit your taste preferences.
- For added flavor, you can sprinkle some grated cheese on top of the stuffing before cooking.
