🫑 Capsicum (Bell Pepper / Sweet Pepper)

Vibrant, crisp, and sweet vegetables available in green, red, yellow, and orange — used in global cuisine for flavor, crunch, and color.

✅ Nutritional Benefits:

• Extremely high in Vitamin C: Boosts immune function and skin health (especially red capsicum)

• Rich in antioxidants like beta-carotene and lutein: Supports eye and heart health

• Low in calories, high in water content: Great for hydration and weight management

• Contains Vitamin B6 and folate: Helps with metabolism and red blood cell formation

• Natural anti-inflammatory properties: Helps reduce internal inflammation and oxidative stress

• Supports healthy digestion: Thanks to fiber and digestive enzymes

🍽️ Culinary Uses (Traditional & International):

Capsicum is one of the most versatile vegetables in the world — used raw, roasted, grilled, or stir-fried.

• In Sri Lankan and Indian cooking, it’s used in stir-fries (devilled dishes), curries, or combined with onion and chili

• In Mexican cuisine, capsicum is a key ingredient in fajitas, tacos, and chili

• In Chinese cooking, it’s tossed in sweet & sour sauces or spicy stir-fries

• In Western cuisine, it's used in salads, stuffed peppers, roasted sides, pizzas, and pasta

• In Mediterranean cuisine, roasted capsicum is added to meze platters, hummus, or dips

🍲 Popular Dishes You Can Make:

• Devilled Capsicum Stir-Fry – Quick sauté with onions, vinegar, and chilies

• Stuffed Bell Peppers – Filled with rice, lentils, or minced meat and baked

• Capsicum Fried Rice – With garlic, soy sauce, and mixed vegetables

• Roasted Pepper Soup – Smooth and creamy with garlic and basil

• Grilled Capsicum Skewers – With tofu, chicken, or paneer

• Capsicum & Cheese Sandwiches – Quick and tasty snack

• Bell Pepper Salsa or Hummus – Blended into dips for extra color and sweetness

📦 Extra Notes:

• Color Matters:

  • Green – Mild, slightly bitter

  • Red, Yellow, Orange – Sweet, ripe, and high in Vitamin C

• Storage: Store in the refrigerator crisper drawer; use within 5–7 days

• Preparation Tip: Remove seeds and white inner ribs for best taste and texture

• Pairs Well With: Garlic, onion, cumin, cheese, tomato, lemon, olive oil, herbs like basil and oregano