Pumpkin Capsicum Sabzi (Kaddu Simla Mirch Sabzi) Recipe
Pumpkin Capsicum Sabzi is a simple yet flavorful dish that combines the natural sweetness of pumpkin with the crispness of capsicum, seasoned with a variety of aromatic spices. This North Indian vegetarian recipe is perfect for everyday meals and is also an excellent choice for packing into your lunch box. The addition of jaggery adds a subtle sweetness that complements the spices, making this dish both comforting and satisfying. With its easy-to-follow preparation, this sabzi is sure to become a staple in your kitchen!
Cuisine: North Indian
Course: Lunch
Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Pumpkin | 1 kg |
| Tomatoes (chopped) | 2 |
| Capsicum (green, chopped) | 1 |
| Green Chilli (finely chopped) | 1 |
| Mustard Seeds | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Cumin Seeds | 1 teaspoon |
| Fenugreek Seeds | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Turmeric Powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Sambar Powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Jaggery | 1 tablespoon |
| Oil | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | To taste |
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4-5
Instructions
-
Heat the Oil
Begin by heating oil in a wok or deep pan over medium heat. Once hot, add the mustard seeds, cumin seeds, and fenugreek seeds. Let them sizzle for about 10 seconds, releasing their aromatic fragrance. -
-
Add the Green Chilli and Capsicum
Next, add the finely chopped green chili and the chopped capsicum (green bell pepper) to the pan. Sauté the vegetables for about 2-3 minutes until they start to soften and become slightly tender. -
Spice It Up
Now, add the turmeric powder and sambar powder. Stir well to coat the vegetables with the spices. Add the chopped tomatoes and pumpkin pieces, followed by salt and jaggery. The jaggery will balance the flavors and add a slight sweetness to the dish. -
Cook the Pumpkin
Mix all the ingredients thoroughly, making sure the spices are evenly distributed. Cover the pan and let the pumpkin cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until it becomes tender. Stir occasionally to prevent the sabzi from sticking to the pan. -
Finish and Garnish
Once the pumpkin is cooked and soft, turn off the heat. Garnish the Pumpkin Capsicum Sabzi with freshly chopped coriander leaves for a burst of freshness.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this delicious Pumpkin Capsicum Sabzi with Phalguni Daal (lentils) and Tawa Paratha for a complete and wholesome meal. This combination makes for a fulfilling lunch that is both nutritious and flavorful.
Tips:
- You can adjust the level of sweetness by adding more or less jaggery according to your taste.
- For a spicier version, feel free to add red chili powder along with the turmeric.
- If you prefer a thicker gravy, mash a little bit of the pumpkin once it’s cooked to achieve a smoother consistency.
Enjoy the warmth and comforting flavors of this easy-to-make North Indian sabzi! It’s perfect for everyday meals, and you can easily pack it in your lunch box to enjoy on the go.
