Besan Capsicum Ki Sabzi – A Flavorful Rajasthani Delight
Rajasthan, with its arid landscapes and limited resources, has developed a rich culinary tradition that incorporates local ingredients in creative ways. Besan (gram flour) holds a special place in Rajasthani kitchens, where it has been used for centuries to create delicious and nutritious meals. One of the most beloved dishes made with besan is Besan Capsicum Ki Sabzi. This traditional preparation involves a combination of gram flour and vegetables like onions and bell peppers, offering a perfect balance of taste and health. Over time, as the cuisine has evolved, more vegetables have been incorporated into the dish to make it even more flavorful and nutritious.
This vibrant and hearty sabzi, with its subtle spice and satisfying texture, is an excellent vegetarian dish that can be enjoyed as part of a lunch spread or as a main course. Let’s dive into the preparation of this traditional Rajasthani recipe.
Ingredients for Besan Capsicum Ki Sabzi
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Oil | As required |
| Gram flour (besan) | 1 1/2 cups |
| Onion (sliced) | 2 |
| Red Bell Pepper (Capsicum) | 1/2 (chopped) |
| Yellow Bell Pepper (Capsicum) | 1/2 (chopped) |
| Red Chilli Powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Turmeric Powder (Haldi) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Water | As required |
| Coriander (Dhania) Leaves | As required, finely chopped (for garnish) |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approximately 180-200 |
| Protein | 5-6 g |
| Carbohydrates | 25 g |
| Fat | 10-12 g |
| Fiber | 4-5 g |
| Sodium | 250-300 mg |
Note: The nutritional values may vary depending on the specific ingredients used and serving sizes.
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Serving Size: 4-5 servings
Instructions for Making Besan Capsicum Ki Sabzi
-
Prepare the Peppers:
Begin by placing the chopped red bell pepper (capsicum) and yellow bell pepper (capsicum) into a deep pan. Add 2 cups of water and bring it to a boil. Once the peppers become tender, drain the water and set them aside. -
Sift the Besan (Gram Flour):
To ensure that there are no lumps, sift the gram flour (besan) twice. This will help achieve a smooth texture when added to the dish. -
Fry the Onions:
In a heavy-bottomed pan, heat oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and fry them until they turn slightly browned. The caramelization of the onions will bring out their natural sweetness, adding depth to the dish. -
Add Spices and Capsicum:
To the browned onions, add the red chilli powder and turmeric powder (haldi). Stir for a minute to toast the spices and release their aromatic flavors. Then, add the cooked peppers to the pan and sauté for about 2 minutes, allowing the peppers to absorb the flavors of the spices. -
Cook the Besan:
Slowly add the sifted besan to the pan, a little at a time, using one hand to sprinkle it in while stirring with the other hand. This will help prevent the besan from forming lumps. Continue to stir for 2-3 minutes to coat the vegetables with the besan evenly. -
Add Water and Simmer:
At this point, sprinkle in some water, just enough to help the besan cook and bind the vegetables together. Cover the pan and let the mixture cook for 5-6 minutes. During this time, the besan will absorb the moisture, and the sabzi will turn a darker shade, signaling that it’s ready. -
Garnish and Serve:
Once the sabzi is cooked and the flavors have melded together, remove from heat. Garnish with freshly chopped coriander (dhania) leaves to add a burst of color and freshness.
Serving Suggestions
Besan Capsicum Ki Sabzi is best served with Phulka, Pitor Ki Sabzi, and a side of rice. The soft, fluffy phulka complements the rich, spiced sabzi, while the rice helps soak up the delicious flavors. This meal brings the authentic taste of Rajasthan to your table while offering a satisfying and wholesome vegetarian option for lunch.
Final Thoughts
This Besan Capsicum Ki Sabzi recipe is a beautiful example of Rajasthani cuisine’s ingenuity, blending basic ingredients with traditional techniques to create a meal that is both delicious and nutritious. The use of besan adds a delightful texture to the dish, while the peppers bring a burst of color and flavor. Perfect for a family meal or when you want to enjoy the rustic tastes of Rajasthan, this sabzi promises to be a new favorite in your kitchen.
This recipe from Love With Recipes is a tribute to the rich culinary heritage of Rajasthan, making it a must-try for anyone looking to explore traditional vegetarian dishes. Enjoy cooking, and may your meal be filled with warmth and good taste!
