Introduction

 

I've always had a special fondness for stuffed vegetables, and besan ki bharwa mirchi (stuffed green chilli) is one of those dishes that has a nostalgic value for me. I vividly remember the first time I tasted it at my grandmother's house. The aroma of roasting green chillies filled the kitchen, and the combination of spicy, tangy, and savoury flavors left an indelible mark on my taste buds.

 

This recipe for besan ki bharwa mirchi is a family treasure. It’s not just a dish but a tradition, passed down through generations. The secret lies in the fresh green chillies and the perfect blend of spices that make the stuffing irresistible. Trust me, once you try it, you'll keep coming back for more!

 

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Recipe of Besan Ki Bharwa Mirchi | Stuffed Green Chilli

 

Portion Servings: 4-5 Pax

Preparation Time: 10 mins

Cooking Time: 40 mins

 

Ingredients

 

For Stuffing:

• Sliced Potatoes: 2 pcs
• Paneer: 100 gms
• Chopped Coriander Stems: As needed
• Chopped Green Chili: 1 tsp
• Chopped Ginger: 1 tsp
• Chaat Masala: ½ tsp
• Red Chili Powder: ½ tsp
• Salt: 1 tsp
• Garam Masala: ¼ tsp
• Jeera (Cumin) Powder: ½ tsp

 

For Sauteing Chillies:

• Bhavnagri Chilies: 12-15 pcs
• Mustard Oil: 2 tbsp
• Kalonji (Onion Seeds): ½ tsp
• Salt: 1 tsp

 

For Gravy:

• Mustard Oil: 1 tbsp
• Hing (Asafoetida): ½ tsp
• Ajwain (Carom Seeds): ½ tsp
• Salt: 1 tsp
• Red Chili Powder: 1 tsp
• Coriander Powder: 1 tsp
• Jeera (Cumin) Powder: ½ tsp
• Turmeric Powder: ½ tsp
• Gram Flour (Besan): 2 tbsp
• Chopped Ginger: 1 tsp
• Chopped Green Chili: 1 tsp
• Chopped Coriander Stems: 1 tsp
• Water: As required
• Tomato Puree: Puree of 2 tomatoes

 

 

Instructions

 

Step 1: Prepare the Green Chilies

• Description: Slit the green chilies lengthwise and carefully remove the seeds using a knife or spoon. This helps in reducing the heat and makes space for the stuffing. Set aside the prepared chilies.

 

Step 2: Make the Stuffing

• Description:

  • Mash the paneer in a bowl until smooth.
  • Add finely chopped coriander stems, green chilies, and ginger.
  • Season with chaat masala, garam masala, red chili powder, cumin powder, and salt. Mix well to combine all ingredients.
  • Peel, wash, and thinly slice the potatoes. Heat mustard oil in a pan over medium heat and fry the potato slices until they are golden brown and crispy.
  • Drain the fried potatoes on a paper towel and let them cool slightly. Then add them to the paneer mixture and mash everything together to form a cohesive filling.

 

Step 3: Stuff the Chilies

• Description: Take each prepared green chili and carefully stuff it with the paneer-potato filling using a spoon. Ensure the stuffing is packed tightly inside the chili.

 

Step 4: Cook the Stuffed Chilies

• Description:

  • In the same pan used for frying the potatoes, heat 2 tbsp mustard oil over medium heat.
  • Add the kalonji and let it crackle for a few seconds.
  • Carefully add the stuffed chilies to the pan. Sauté them on high heat, turning occasionally, until they are lightly golden and slightly wilted.
  • Sprinkle 1 tsp salt over the chilies, mix well, and set them aside on a plate.

 

Step 5: Prepare the Gravy

• Description:

  • In the same pan, heat 1 tbsp mustard oil over medium heat.
  • Add asafoetida and carom seeds. Let them crackle for a few seconds.
  • Add 1 tsp salt, 1 tsp red chili powder, 1 tsp coriander powder, ½ tsp turmeric powder, and ½ tsp cumin powder. Sauté the spices for 1-2 minutes until aromatic.
  • Add 2 tbsp besan and continuously stir to prevent lumps. Cook the besan for 2-3 minutes until it turns golden brown.
  • Add chopped ginger, green chilies, and coriander stems to the pan and mix well.
  • Pour in water as needed to achieve a thick gravy consistency and let it simmer.
  • Add the tomato puree and cook for another 5-7 minutes until the gravy thickens and the oil starts to separate from the masala.

 

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

• Description:

  • Garnish the prepared gravy with freshly chopped coriander leaves.
  • To serve, pour the gravy onto a serving plate and arrange the stuffed chilies on top.
  • Serve hot with rice, roti, or paratha for a delicious meal.

 

Enjoy your flavorful and spicy Besan Ki Bharwa Mirchi! By following these detailed steps, you’ll be able to recreate a traditional and tasty stuffed green chili dish that is sure to be a hit at your table!

 

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About the Recipe

 

Besan ki bharwa mirchi, also known as stuffed green chilli, is a delectable Indian dish that combines the heat of green chillies with a flavorful besan (gram flour) stuffing. This recipe is cherished in many Indian households, offering a perfect balance of spice and flavor. The chillies are slit and stuffed with a mixture of gram flour, spices, and other aromatics, then shallow-fried to a golden brown perfection. This dish can be enjoyed as a side or even as a main course, paired with hot chapatis or rice. It's a versatile recipe that brings a delightful change to your regular meal rotation.

 

 

Cooking Tips

• Select Fresh Chillies: Choose green chillies that are fresh, firm, and have a vibrant green color. They should have a glossy skin and no wrinkles.

• Remove Seeds: Always remove the seeds from the chillies to reduce the heat. This ensures a milder taste that balances well with the spicy stuffing.

• Roast the Besan Well: Roast the besan on a low flame until it turns golden brown and releases a nutty aroma. This step is crucial for enhancing the flavor of the stuffing.

• Use Mustard Oil: Cooking the stuffed chillies in mustard oil adds a unique flavor. If you prefer a milder taste, you can use refined oil instead.

• Shallow Frying: Shallow frying the stuffed chillies ensures they cook evenly and acquire a deliciously crisp exterior without absorbing too much oil.

 

 

Pairing Guide

• Rice and Dal: Besan ki bharwa mirchi pairs wonderfully with simple steamed rice and dal (lentil curry). The mildness of the rice and dal balances the spiciness of the chillies.

• Roti or Paratha: Serve these stuffed chillies with fresh roti or paratha. The soft bread complements the crunchy texture of the chillies, creating a satisfying meal.

• Yogurt: A side of yogurt or raita can help cool down the heat from the chillies and add a refreshing contrast to the dish.

• Chutneys: Pair the chillies with a tangy tomato or mint chutney for an extra burst of flavor.

 

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Frequently Asked Questions About Besan Ki Bharwa Mirchi | Stuffed Green Chilli

 

1. What are the main ingredients for besan ki bharwa mirchi?

The main ingredients include green chillies, besan (gram flour), spices like garam masala, red chili powder, turmeric, and cumin powder, along with aromatics like ginger and green chili.

 

2. How do I reduce the spiciness of the stuffed chillies?

To reduce the spiciness, remove all seeds from the chillies and choose larger, milder green chillies. The stuffing also helps mellow the heat.

 

3. Can I use other types of chillies for this recipe?

Yes, you can use larger chillies or bell peppers if you prefer a milder version. Adjust the stuffing and cooking time accordingly.

 

4. How long can I store besan ki bharwa mirchi?

You can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheat it on a low flame before serving.

 

5. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the stuffing and stuff the chillies a day ahead. Store them in the refrigerator and fry them just before serving.

 

6. Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, besan ki bharwa mirchi is naturally gluten-free as it uses gram flour, which is made from chickpeas.

 

7. How can I make the dish less oily?

Opt for shallow frying instead of deep frying. Use a non-stick pan and a minimal amount of oil to cook the stuffed chillies.

 

8. What other fillings can I use?

You can experiment with different fillings like paneer, potato, or mixed vegetables. The method remains the same, but the flavors will vary.

 

9. What can I serve with besan ki bharwa mirchi?

It pairs well with roti, paratha, rice, and dal. You can also serve it with yogurt or a light salad for a complete meal.

 

10. Can I make a Jain version of this recipe?

Yes, you can omit the garlic and onion to make a Jain version. Substitute the stuffing with ingredients like boiled potatoes and paneer.

 

Feel free to enjoy this delicious besan ki bharwa mirchi and explore its variations to suit your taste preferences!

 

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