Stuffed Bell Peppers (Vinuta S. Chitwadgi’s Recipe)
Recipe Overview
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Category: Curries
Servings: 2
This delightful stuffed bell pepper recipe was created by Vinuta S. Chitwadgi and was a winning submission for the What’s Cooking column contest in Thursday Magazine. With a balance of spices, herbs, and a unique stuffing made from roasted peanuts, these stuffed peppers are a must-try! The rich combination of garam masala, tamarind paste, jaggery, and coriander adds a depth of flavor thatโs sure to impress. The dish pairs perfectly with flatbreads or plain basmati rice.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Bell peppers | 5 |
| Onions | 4 |
| Garlic paste | 1 tbsp |
| Cumin powder | 1 tsp |
| Asafoetida powder | 1/2 tsp |
| Fresh coriander leaves | 4 tbsp |
| Garam masala powder | 1 tsp |
| Curry leaves | 2 sprigs |
| Turmeric powder | 1/2 tsp |
| Coriander powder | 1 tsp |
| Tamarind paste | 1 tbsp |
| Jaggery (grated or powdered) | 1 tsp |
| Water | 1/2 cup |
| Salt | To taste |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 389.5 kcal |
| Total Fat | 28 g |
| Saturated Fat | 3.7 g |
| Cholesterol | 0 mg |
| Sodium | 17.7 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 35.1 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 6.6 g |
| Sugars | 16.7 g |
| Protein | 4 g |
Instructions
-
Prepare the Bell Peppers:
Start by cutting 2 slits of about one inch in length on each bell pepper. Set the peppers aside for later use. -
Roast the Peanuts:
Heat a pan over medium flame. Dry roast the peanuts until theyโre lightly browned and fragrant. Once done, let them cool slightly before grinding them coarsely in a mixer or food processor. -
Make the Stuffing:
In a separate pan, heat 4 teaspoons of oil. Add the cumin and asafoetida powders, and let them fry for a few seconds until they release their aroma. Then, add the finely chopped onions, garlic paste, and curry leaves. Fry until the onions become lightly browned and caramelized. Allow this mixture to cool before proceeding. -
Combine the Stuffing:
Once the onion mixture has cooled, add the coarsely ground roasted peanuts to it. Next, stir in all the masala powders, tamarind paste, jaggery, and a portion of the chopped fresh coriander leaves (about 3 teaspoons). Mix all the ingredients together thoroughly to create the stuffing. -
Stuff the Bell Peppers:
Carefully stuff the bell peppers with the prepared stuffing mixture. Make sure to press the stuffing gently into each pepper to ensure it’s packed well. -
Cook the Stuffed Peppers:
Heat the remaining oil in a large vessel or pan. Once hot, add the stuffed bell peppers one by one. Stir gently once and then cover the pan with a lid. Let the peppers cook for 1 minute, then add the water to the pan. -
Simmer the Peppers:
Reduce the heat and let the stuffed peppers simmer for about 8 minutes. Ensure that the water doesnโt evaporate completely during this time, so keep an eye on the pan and add more water if necessary. -
Garnish and Serve:
Once the peppers are cooked, remove them from the heat. Garnish with the remaining chopped fresh coriander leaves. Serve the stuffed bell peppers hot with rotis or plain basmati rice for a delicious and flavorful meal.
Tips for Success
-
Choosing the Right Peppers:
When selecting bell peppers, choose those that are firm and have a uniform color. Avoid peppers with soft spots, as they may affect the texture and flavor of the dish. -
Adjust the Spice Level:
You can adjust the spice level of this recipe by modifying the amount of garam masala, coriander powder, or chili if you prefer a milder or spicier version. -
Make Ahead:
The stuffing can be prepared a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Just stuff the peppers when ready to cook for a quicker preparation time. -
Vegetarian Option:
This recipe is already vegetarian, making it an excellent choice for meatless meals or for those following a plant-based diet.
With its unique blend of spices and fresh ingredients, these Stuffed Bell Peppers are not only a feast for the eyes but a rich, flavorful dish that brings warmth and satisfaction to any meal. Whether you’re preparing it for a casual family dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress your guests. Enjoy the vibrant, spicy flavors of Indian cuisine in the comfort of your own kitchen with this easy-to-make recipe!
