Pumpkin Capsicum Sabzi (Kaddu Simla Mirch Sabzi)
This simple yet flavorful Pumpkin Capsicum Sabzi (Kaddu Simla Mirch Sabzi) is a perfect choice for a quick weeknight dinner. Made with tender pumpkin (kaddu) and crisp green bell peppers (capsicum), it’s seasoned with everyday Indian masalas, making it a savory, aromatic dish. Ideal when paired with phulka and kadhi or dal, this dish brings together the flavors of North India in a hearty vegetarian stir-fry.
Cuisine: North Indian
Course: Lunch
Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Mustard oil | 1 teaspoon |
| Mustard seeds (Rai/Kadugu) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Cumin seeds (Jeera) | 1 teaspoon |
| Methi Seeds (Fenugreek Seeds) | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Onion (diced) | 1 |
| Green Bell Pepper (Capsicum) | 1, diced |
| Kaddu (Pumpkin), diced | 500 grams |
| Tomatoes, finely chopped | 2 |
| Curry leaves, torn | 2 sprigs |
| Turmeric powder (Haldi) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Sambar powder or Panch Phoran | 1 teaspoon |
| Jaggery | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | To taste |
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Serving Size: 4
Instructions
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Heat the Oil: Begin by heating 1 teaspoon of mustard oil in a heavy-bottomed pan over medium heat. Add the mustard seeds, cumin seeds, fenugreek seeds, and curry leaves to the pan. Allow them to crackle and release their aromatic flavors.
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Sauté the Vegetables: Once the seeds have popped, add the diced green bell peppers (capsicum) and onions to the pan. Sauté for a few minutes until the vegetables soften and become tender.
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Add Tomatoes and Pumpkin: Stir in the finely chopped tomatoes and the diced pumpkin (kaddu). Mix well to ensure all ingredients are combined.
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Spice It Up: Sprinkle in the turmeric powder (haldi), sambar powder (or panch phoran), jaggery, and salt. Stir to evenly coat the vegetables with the spices and sweeten the dish slightly with jaggery.
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Simmer: Add a few drops of water to the pan to help the vegetables cook evenly. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let the sabzi simmer for about 7 to 10 minutes, or until the pumpkin becomes soft and tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
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Final Adjustments: Once the pumpkin is cooked through and tender, taste the dish and adjust the salt and spice levels to suit your preferences.
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Serve: Turn off the heat and transfer the Pumpkin Capsicum Sabzi to a serving platter. Serve hot as a side dish with phulka, kadhi, or dal, and enjoy this delicious and comforting meal.
Serving Suggestions
For a complete North Indian meal, serve the Kaddu Simla Mirch Sabzi with Gujarati Kadhi, soft Phulka, and a refreshing Satvik Carrot Sprouts Salad. The mild sweetness from the jaggery in the sabzi beautifully complements the tangy, spiced flavors of the kadhi, creating a satisfying and balanced meal.
Enjoy the simplicity and wholesome goodness of this easy-to-make Pumpkin Capsicum Sabzi!
