Besan Capsicum Ki Sabzi Recipe (Rajasthani Style)
Introduction
Besan Capsicum Ki Sabzi is a flavorful and nutritious Rajasthani dish that combines gram flour (besan) with bell peppers (capsicum) in a delightful, savory curry. This dish brings together the earthy flavors of besan and the sweetness of bell peppers, making it a perfect vegetarian option for lunch or dinner. It’s simple to prepare, but the combination of spices and textures makes it a standout dish. Serve it with phulka, pitor ki sabzi, and rice for a wholesome, satisfying meal.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Sunflower oil | As required |
| Gram flour (besan) | 1 ½ cups |
| Onion (sliced) | 2 medium-sized |
| Red bell pepper (capsicum) | ½ (chopped) |
| Yellow bell pepper (capsicum) | ½ (chopped) |
| Red chili powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Turmeric powder (haldi) | ½ teaspoon |
| Water | As required |
| Fresh coriander leaves | For garnishing |
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Cuisine: Rajasthani
- Course: Lunch
- Diet: Vegetarian
Instructions
-
Prepare the Bell Peppers:
Begin by boiling the chopped red and yellow bell peppers (capsicum) in approximately 2 cups of water until they become tender. Once cooked, drain the peppers and set them aside. This step will soften the peppers and infuse them with some of the water’s flavor. -
-
Sift the Gram Flour:
Sift the gram flour (besan) twice to remove any lumps. This ensures that the flour integrates smoothly into the sabzi without forming undesirable clumps during cooking. Set it aside for later use. -
Cook the Onions:
In a heavy-bottomed pan, heat the sunflower oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and fry them until they turn a light golden brown. This will bring out the sweetness and depth of flavor from the onions, which forms the base of the sabzi. -
Add Spices and Bell Peppers:
Once the onions are browned, add the red chili powder and turmeric powder (haldi) to the pan. Stir to combine and cook for a minute. Then, add the chopped bell peppers to the pan and sauté them for about 2 minutes, allowing them to soften slightly and absorb the flavors of the spices. -
Incorporate the Gram Flour:
Slowly add the sifted besan (gram flour) to the pan, using one hand to sprinkle it in while stirring with the other hand to ensure there are no lumps. The besan will absorb the oil and spices, and the texture will become slightly sticky. -
Cook the Sabzi:
Once the besan is added, pour in a little water to help cook the flour and form a smooth consistency. Cover the pan and allow the sabzi to cook for about 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally. The dish should darken in color and thicken as the besan cooks. If needed, add more water to achieve your desired consistency. -
Garnish and Serve:
After the sabzi is cooked and the flavors have melded together, turn off the heat. Garnish with freshly chopped coriander (dhania) leaves for a burst of color and freshness.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Besan Capsicum Ki Sabzi hot with phulka (Indian flatbread), pitor ki sabzi, and a side of rice for a wholesome meal. This dish is perfect for a nutritious lunch or dinner and pairs wonderfully with cooling raita or yogurt.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 210 kcal |
| Protein | 7 g |
| Carbohydrates | 32 g |
| Fat | 8 g |
| Fiber | 5 g |
| Sugar | 6 g |
| Sodium | 150 mg |
Note: Nutritional values are approximate and can vary based on the exact ingredients used.
Tips for the Best Besan Capsicum Ki Sabzi:
- Fresh Besan: Make sure you use fresh, well-sifted gram flour for a smooth and lump-free texture in the sabzi.
- Spice Adjustments: You can adjust the amount of red chili powder according to your preference for heat. If you like a milder flavor, reduce the quantity.
- Consistency Control: If the sabzi becomes too thick during cooking, simply add more water in small increments to reach your desired consistency.
- Additional Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like tomatoes or peas to this recipe for extra flavor and nutrition.
Enjoy the warm, earthy, and slightly spicy flavors of this traditional Rajasthani dish with your loved ones! Besan Capsicum Ki Sabzi is not just a treat for the taste buds but also a nourishing, wholesome option for vegetarians.
