Stuffed Shimla Mirch (Capsicum)

Stuffed Shimla Mirch is a classic Indian dish where bell peppers are filled with a flavorful mixture of spiced potatoes, peas, and aromatic spices. The peppers are then cooked until tender, creating a hearty and satisfying meal that’s rich in taste and texture. It’s a popular vegetarian dish enjoyed across India for its delicious taste and wholesome ingredients.

Here’s a detailed recipe for you:

Ingredients:

For the stuffing:

• 4 large bell peppers (Shimla mirch)
• 2 tablespoons oil
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 tomatoes, finely chopped
• 1 cup boiled and mashed potatoes
• 1 cup boiled green peas
• 1 teaspoon ginger-garlic paste
• 1 green chili, finely chopped (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon coriander powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin powder
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• Salt to taste
• Fresh coriander leaves for garnish

For the outer preparation:

• 1 tablespoon oil
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Bell Peppers:
   • Wash the bell peppers and cut off the tops. Remove the seeds and membrane from inside, creating a hollow space for the stuffing.
   • Rinse them again and keep aside.
2. Prepare the Stuffing:
   • Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them splutter.
   • Add chopped onions and sauté until they turn translucent.
   • Add ginger-garlic paste and chopped green chilies. Sauté for a minute.
   • Add chopped tomatoes and cook until they become soft and mushy.
   • Now add all the dry spices: coriander powder, cumin powder, turmeric powder, red chili powder, garam masala, and salt. Mix well and cook for a couple of minutes.
   • Add boiled and mashed potatoes along with boiled green peas. Mix everything thoroughly and cook for 4-5 minutes. Turn off the heat.
   • Your stuffing is ready. Let it cool down a bit.
3. Stuff the Bell Peppers:
   • Take the hollow bell peppers and stuff them generously with the prepared stuffing. Press the stuffing gently inside the peppers and fill them completely.
4. Cooking the Stuffed Bell Peppers:
   • Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them splutter.
   • Carefully place the stuffed bell peppers in the pan.
   • Sprinkle turmeric powder and salt on top of the peppers.
   • Cover the pan and let the peppers cook on low-medium heat for about 15-20 minutes. Keep turning them occasionally to ensure they cook evenly and don’t burn.
5. Serve:
   • Once the bell peppers are cooked and tender, garnish them with fresh coriander leaves.
   • Serve hot stuffed bell peppers with roti, naan, or rice.

Enjoy your delicious stuffed Shimla mirch!