Introduction
 

I'm excited to share my journey with Bharwa Capsicum ki Sabzi. This dish holds a special place in my culinary repertoire, not just because of its delightful flavors but also because of the memories it evokes. I remember the first time I tried it – it was during a family gathering where my grandmother unveiled her secret recipe. As she carefully stuffed each capsicum with a flavorful mixture of spices and veggies, I couldn't help but be intrigued by the process. And when I finally tasted the finished dish, it was like fireworks of flavor bursting in my mouth. Since then, Bharwa Capsicum ki Sabzi has become a staple in our family gatherings, a dish that brings us together and leaves us craving for more.

 

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Recipe of Bharwa Capsicum

 

Ingredients:

 

For Gravy:

• Oil: 2 tbsp
• Bayleaf: 2 pcs
• Cinnamon: ½ inch
• Black cardamom: 1 pc
• Green cardamom: 3 pcs
• Cloves: 6-7 pcs
• Onion (chopped): 1 cup
• Ginger & garlic paste: 1 tbsp
• Turmeric powder: ½ tsp
• Red chilli powder: 1 tsp
• Coriander powder: 1 tsp
• Salt: 1 tsp
• Jeera powder: ½ tsp
• Besan (gram flour): 2 tbsp
• Ghee: 1 tbsp
• Tomato puree: 1 cup
• Water: as required
• Coriander (chopped): 1 tbsp
• Kasoori methi: ½ tbsp

For Stuffing:

• Coriander seeds: 1 tbsp
• Saunf (fennel seeds): ½ tbsp
• Black pepper: 1 tsp
• Jeera (cumin seeds): 1 tbsp
• Oil: 1 tbsp
• Jeera: 1 tsp
• Hing (asafoetida): ½ tsp
• Ginger (chopped): 1 tbsp
• Green chilli: ½ tbsp
• Black salt: 1 tsp
• Anardana (pomegranate seed powder): 1 tsp
• Amchur (dry mango powder): ½ tbsp
• Raisins: 1 tbsp
• Kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves): ½ tbsp
• Potato (boiled & peeled): 4-5 pcs
• Coriander (chopped): ½ tbsp
• Paneer cubes: ¼ cup

For Capsicum:

• Capsicum: 4-5 pcs
• Tomatoes: 2-3 pcs
• Oil: 1 tbsp
• Salt: ½ tsp

 

Instructions:

 

Step 1: Prepare the Stuffing
Roast coriander seeds, saunf, black pepper, and jeera until aromatic. Pound them into a coarse powder. In a pan, heat oil and add jeera and hing. Sauté chopped ginger and green chilli until fragrant. Add black salt, the pounded masala, anardana powder, amchur powder, raisins, and kasuri methi. Sauté for a minute, then add boiled and mashed potatoes, paneer cubes, and chopped coriander. Mix thoroughly and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Gravy
In a pan, heat oil and add bay leaves, black cardamom, green cardamom, cinnamon, and cloves. Let them splutter, then add chopped onions and sauté until golden brown. Add ginger and garlic paste, cooking until fragrant. Mix in turmeric powder, red chilli powder, coriander powder, and jeera powder. Sauté for a minute, then add besan and ghee, cooking for 1-2 minutes. Add tomato puree and cook for 5-6 minutes. Pour in water as needed, and finish with kasuri methi and chopped coriander.

Step 3: Stuff the Capsicum and Tomatoes
Wash and clean the capsicum and tomatoes. Cut off the tops and scoop out the centers. Fill them with the prepared stuffing, then cover with the tops.

Step 4: Cook the Stuffed Vegetables
In a pan, heat oil and add the stuffed capsicum and tomatoes. Sauté with a pinch of salt for about a minute. Pour the prepared gravy over the stuffed vegetables, cover the pan, and let it cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 5: Serve the Bharwa Capsicum
On a serving plate, spread a layer of the savory gravy. Arrange the stuffed capsicum and tomatoes on top. Garnish with chopped coriander. Your flavorful Bharwa Capsicum ki Sabzi is ready to serve!

 

 

 

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About the Recipe

 

Bharwa Capsicum ki Sabzi is a classic Indian dish that celebrates the vibrant flavors of stuffed bell peppers. Originating from the heart of Indian kitchens, this dish is a delightful combination of tender capsicums filled with a savory mixture of spices, vegetables, and sometimes even paneer or minced meat.

 

The process of making Bharwa Capsicum ki Sabzi involves carefully hollowing out the capsicums and stuffing them with a mixture of ingredients like potatoes, onions, tomatoes, and a medley of spices such as cumin, coriander, turmeric, and red chili powder. The stuffed capsicums are then cooked until tender, allowing the flavors to meld together, creating a dish that's bursting with taste and aroma.

 

Cooking Tips

 

1. Choosing the Capsicums: Opt for firm, brightly colored capsicums with smooth skin for the best results.

2. Prepping the Filling: Ensure the filling is well-seasoned and flavorful to enhance the taste of the dish.

3. Cooking Time: Be patient while cooking the stuffed capsicums to ensure they are cooked through and tender without losing their shape.

 

 

Pairing Guide

 

• Beverage: Pair Bharwa Capsicum ki Sabzi with a refreshing glass of minty lassi or a cold Indian beer to balance out the spices.

• Side Dish: Serve with fluffy naan bread or steamed rice and a side of tangy yogurt or raita for a complete meal experience.

 

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Frequently Asked Questions about Bharwa Capsicum ki Sabzi

 

1. What is Bharwa Capsicum ki Sabzi?

   • Bharwa Capsicum ki Sabzi is an Indian dish where bell peppers are stuffed with a mixture of spices, vegetables, and sometimes paneer or minced meat.

2. How do you make the stuffing for Bharwa Capsicum ki Sabzi?

   • The stuffing typically consists of a mixture of potatoes, onions, tomatoes, and spices such as cumin, coriander, turmeric, and red chili powder.

3. Can I use different colored capsicums for this dish?

   • Yes, you can use a variety of colored capsicums to add visual appeal to the dish.

4. Is Bharwa Capsicum ki Sabzi spicy?

   • The level of spiciness can be adjusted according to personal preference by varying the amount of red chili powder used in the stuffing.

5. Can I make Bharwa Capsicum ki Sabzi ahead of time?

   • Yes, you can prepare the stuffed capsicums in advance and refrigerate them until ready to cook.

6. Can I make this dish without onions and garlic?

   • Yes, you can omit onions and garlic from the stuffing if desired, although they do add flavor to the dish.

7. How long does it take to cook Bharwa Capsicum ki Sabzi?

   • Cooking time may vary depending on the size and thickness of the capsicums, but typically it takes around 20-25 minutes for the capsicums to become tender.

8. Can I bake Bharwa Capsicum ki Sabzi instead of cooking it on the stovetop?

   • Yes, you can bake stuffed capsicums in a preheated oven at 350°F (180°C) for about 25-30 minutes or until they are cooked through.

9. What can I serve with Bharwa Capsicum ki Sabzi?

   • It pairs well with Indian flatbreads like naan or roti, as well as steamed rice and a side of yogurt or raita.

10. Can I freeze leftover Bharwa Capsicum ki Sabzi?

    • While it's best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2-3 months. Simply thaw and reheat before serving.

 

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