Arbi Shimla Mirch Sabzi (Colocasia & Bell Pepper Vegetable)
A hearty, flavorful North Indian dry curry made with tender colocasia roots (arbi) and vibrant green bell peppers, perfect for a satisfying meal.
Description
Arbi Shimla Mirch Sabzi, also known as Colocasia and Bell Pepper Vegetable, is a delightful variation of the classic aloo capsicum (potato and bell pepper) dry sabzi, often prepared in North Indian households. This dish combines the earthy flavor of arbi with the sweetness of bell peppers and the richness of aromatic spices, making it an ideal side dish for a wholesome lunch or dinner.
While the recipe is typically made using potatoes, the substitution of arbi (colocasia root) gives this dish a unique texture and flavor, making it a delicious and nutritious addition to your meal plan. It is simple to prepare, and being a no-onion, no-garlic (Sattvic) recipe, it is also suitable for those following a spiritual or vegetarian diet.
Cuisine
North Indian
Course
Main Course
Diet
No Onion No Garlic (Sattvic), Vegetarian
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Colocasia root (Arbi) | 300 grams |
| Green Bell Pepper (Capsicum) | 1, diced |
| Tomato | 1, chopped |
| Ginger | 1 inch, grated |
| Coriander Powder (Dhania) | 1 teaspoon |
| Turmeric Powder (Haldi) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Red Chilli Powder | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Garam Masala Powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | As per taste |
| Oil | For cooking (1 tablespoon) |
Preparation Time
20 minutes
Cooking Time
35 minutes
Instructions
-
Cook the Arbi:
Begin by cooking the colocasia roots (arbi). Add the arbi along with 1/2 cup of water to a pressure cooker. Close the lid and cook for 4-5 whistles. Once done, turn off the heat and allow the pressure to release naturally.
Once the pressure has fully released, peel the arbi and dice it into bite-sized pieces. Let it cool completely to firm up. -
Saute Vegetables:
Heat about 1 tablespoon of oil in a heavy-bottomed pan over medium heat. Add the grated ginger and sauté for a minute.
Add the diced green bell pepper (capsicum) to the pan and cook, stirring occasionally, for 4-5 minutes until the capsicum becomes tender and slightly browned at the edges. -
Add Tomatoes and Spices:
Once the capsicum has softened, add the chopped tomato and a pinch of salt. Continue to sauté until the tomatoes break down and become mushy, around 3-4 minutes.
At this stage, stir in the turmeric powder, coriander powder, red chili powder, and garam masala powder. Mix well to coat the vegetables with the spices. -
Combine Arbi and Cook:
Add the boiled and diced arbi to the pan, and mix well to incorporate the spices evenly. Check the seasoning and adjust the salt if necessary.
Cover the pan and reduce the heat to low. Let the sabzi simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing all the flavors to blend together. -
Garnish and Serve:
Turn off the heat and stir in freshly chopped coriander leaves.
Transfer the Arbi Shimla Mirch Sabzi to a serving dish and serve hot.
Serving Suggestions
This simple yet flavorful Arbi Shimla Mirch Sabzi pairs wonderfully with a variety of North Indian accompaniments. Serve it with Punjabi Dal Tadka, Missi Roti, and a refreshing Beetroot, Carrot & Cucumber Salad with Peanuts for a balanced, nutritious meal. Alternatively, it also goes well with plain rice, making it a complete comfort food for any day of the week.
Tips for the Perfect Arbi Shimla Mirch Sabzi
- Cooking the Arbi: Ensure that you cook the arbi until it is tender but not mushy. Overcooking can cause it to lose its texture. Let it cool before dicing for better consistency.
- Spice Adjustments: You can adjust the amount of red chili powder and garam masala depending on your spice tolerance. For a milder version, reduce the chili powder.
- Variations: If you prefer a more flavorful twist, you can add a squeeze of lemon juice just before serving or sprinkle some amchur (dry mango powder) for added tanginess.
- No Onion, No Garlic Option: This recipe is traditionally made without onions or garlic, making it perfect for sattvic diets or those seeking a lighter, easily digestible meal.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 150 kcal |
| Protein | 3g |
| Carbohydrates | 20g |
| Fiber | 4g |
| Fat | 7g |
| Sodium | 250mg |
(Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary depending on portion size and specific ingredients used.)
Conclusion
Arbi Shimla Mirch Sabzi is a comforting and nutritious dish that showcases the wonderful flavors of North Indian cuisine. With the earthiness of arbi and the sweet crunch of capsicum, this dish is not only rich in taste but also packed with health benefits. It’s perfect for those looking for a vegetarian, no-onion, no-garlic recipe that’s both satisfying and easy to make. Try it for your next meal and experience the wholesome goodness it brings to the table!
