Sweet & Spicy Pumpkin Capsicum Stir-Fry (Kaddu Simla Mirch Sabzi)

Pumpkin and Capsicum Stir-Fry (Kaddu Simla Mirch Sabzi)

This flavorful and comforting vegetable dish combines the natural sweetness of pumpkin with the crunch of green capsicum, all cooked together with aromatic spices and a touch of jaggery to bring out the sweetness. Perfect for a healthy lunch, this simple yet delicious North Indian recipe pairs beautifully with Phalguni Dal and Tawa Paratha for a satisfying meal.

Ingredients

Instructions

1. Prepare the base of the curry:
   In a deep frying pan or wok, heat 1 teaspoon of oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add mustard seeds, cumin seeds, and fenugreek seeds. Allow them to sizzle for about 10 seconds until the spices release their aroma.

2. Add vegetables:
   Add the finely chopped green chili and capsicum to the pan. Sauté for about 2 to 3 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften slightly and absorb the flavors.

3. Add spices and other ingredients:
   Sprinkle in the turmeric powder, sambar powder, and salt. Stir the mixture well to coat the vegetables evenly with the spices. Now add the chopped tomatoes and pumpkin pieces. Mix everything thoroughly.

4. Cook the vegetables:
   Add jaggery to the pan and mix it in. Let the vegetables cook for another 2 minutes, allowing the pumpkin to soften. Cover the pan and cook on low heat for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pumpkin is fully cooked and tender.

5. Finishing touches:
   Once the pumpkin is soft and the flavors have blended together, turn off the heat. Garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves for a burst of color and freshness.

6. Serving suggestion:
   Serve the Pumpkin and Capsicum Stir-Fry hot with Phalguni Dal (a flavorful lentil dish) and Tawa Paratha (Indian flatbread). The combination of these dishes makes for a wholesome and satisfying meal.

Additional Tips:

• You can adjust the amount of jaggery based on your preference for sweetness.
• If you prefer a spicier dish, increase the number of green chilies or add some red chili powder.
• For a richer flavor, you can add a small pinch of garam masala at the end for an aromatic finish.

Nutritional Information (per serving):

This pumpkin capsicum stir-fry is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. It’s a perfect vegetarian option that complements a variety of Indian bread and lentil dishes. Enjoy this North Indian classic as a wholesome, low-fat, and nutritious meal!