Spiced Potato Stuffed Peppers (Shimla Mirch Stuffed with Spiced Potato)
Spice Level: Medium
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Serves: 4
Rating: 4.0 (32 votes)
Dietary: Vegetarian
This delightful dish, Spiced Potato Stuffed Peppers, known in India as Shimla Mirch, is a simple yet aromatic vegetarian treat. The sweet, crunchy peppers are stuffed with a flavorful mixture of spiced potatoes, creating a hearty dish that’s perfect for any meal. The combination of cumin, garam masala, and fenugreek leaves infuses the potatoes with a robust flavor, while the fresh coriander and green chilies provide a refreshing and zesty touch.
Ingredients Table
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Whole peppers (2 red, 2 green) | 4 |
| Medium-sized potatoes (boiled and diced) | 4 |
| Rapeseed oil | 1 tsp |
| Salt | 1 tsp |
| Cumin seeds | 1 tsp |
| Green chili (finely chopped) | 1 |
| Garam masala | 1 tsp |
| Fresh ginger (grated) | 3 cm piece |
| Fenugreek leaves | 1 tbsp |
| Fresh coriander (finely chopped) | 1 tbsp |
Allergen Information
This recipe is free from common allergens such as dairy, nuts, and gluten, making it a suitable choice for many dietary preferences. However, if you’re sensitive to nightshades, it’s important to note that the peppers used in this dish are part of the nightshade family.
Dietary Preferences
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-Free
- Vegan-friendly (ensure no dairy is added in optional garnishing)
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Protein: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fat: 3g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sodium: 400mg
Instructions for Preparation
-
Prepare the Potatoes: Start by gently cooking the potatoes with the skin on for 20-25 minutes. Be sure not to boil them too vigorously. Once they are soft and easily pierced with a fork, remove them from the pot and set them aside to cool. Once cooled, peel the potatoes and cut them into small, bite-sized cubes. Place these cubes into a large mixing bowl.
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Cook the Spices: Heat the rapeseed oil in a small frying pan over medium heat. Add the cumin seeds to the hot oil and fry them until they become aromatic and slightly sizzle. This should take about 1-2 minutes. Once the seeds are fragrant, remove the pan from the heat and pour the contents (cumin seeds) into the bowl with the potatoes.
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Spice the Potatoes: Add the finely chopped green chili, garam masala, salt, freshly grated ginger, fenugreek leaves, and chopped fresh coriander to the potatoes. Gently mix everything together, ensuring the spices are well distributed. Taste the mixture and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
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Stuff the Peppers: Cut the tops off the peppers and carefully remove the seeds and membranes. Stuff each pepper with the spiced potato mixture, pressing the filling down gently to ensure it is packed well.
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Cook the Stuffed Peppers: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Place the stuffed peppers on a baking tray and bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and slightly charred on the edges. The cooking time may vary depending on the size of the peppers.
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Serve: Once cooked, remove the peppers from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Garnish with extra fresh coriander, if desired.
Tips for Success
- Customization: You can add a dash of lemon juice to the potato filling for a bit of acidity, which balances the spices beautifully.
- Serving Ideas: This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of steamed rice or flatbread, like naan or roti, to create a satisfying meal.
- Make it Spicier: If you enjoy more heat, feel free to add an extra green chili or a pinch of red chili powder to the filling.
- Vegetable Variation: Consider adding finely chopped vegetables, such as carrots or peas, into the potato filling for added texture and nutrition.
Conclusion
Spiced Potato Stuffed Peppers offer a flavorful, vegetarian alternative to traditional stuffed peppers. The warm, spiced potato filling complements the sweetness of the peppers, creating a satisfying and wholesome dish. Perfect for dinner, these stuffed peppers can be made ahead of time and served as a part of a larger spread for family or friends. Whether you’re following a vegetarian diet or simply looking to enjoy a hearty, spice-infused meal, this dish will not disappoint!
