Capsicum Fry | Spicy Bell Pepper Stir-Fry

Capsicum Fry, also known as Bell Pepper Stir-Fry, is a flavorful and easy-to-make Indian dish that brings a burst of color and spice to your dining table. This recipe combines the crunchiness of capsicum (bell peppers) with aromatic spices and roasted Bengal gram powder, creating a delightful side dish that pairs perfectly with steamed rice, pulka, or roti. Rich in vitamins and antioxidants, capsicum adds not only taste but also nutritional value to your meal. Follow these step-by-step instructions to prepare this tasty and healthy Capsicum Fry that your family will love.

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Course: Main
Main Ingredient: Capsicum
Serves: 3-4

Quick Navigation:

• Ingredients
• Procedure
• Step 1: Prepare the Roasted Bengal Gram Powder
• Step 2: Temper the Spices
• Step 3: Add Capsicum and Green Chilies
• Step 4: Incorporate Turmeric Powder and Ajwain
• Step 5: Season with Salt
• Step 6: Add Mashed Garlic and Cook
• Step 7: Add Roasted Bengal Gram Powder
• Step 8: Serve the Capsicum Fry
• Conclusion

Ingredients

Capsicum (Bell Peppers): 250 grams, chopped

Roasted Bengal Gram (Putnala Pappu): 2-3 tablespoons

Sliced Green Chilies (Pachimirapa): 4-5

Ajwain (Vamu): 1 tablespoon

Garlic Pods (Velulli Rebbalu): 3-4, mashed

For Tempering (Talimpu):
- Dry Red Chili (Endumirapa): 1
- Urad Dal (Minapappu): 1 tablespoon
- Cumin Seeds (Jeelakarra): 1 tablespoon
- Mustard Seeds (Aavalu): 1/2 tablespoon

Turmeric Powder: 1/2 tablespoon

Salt: As per taste

Oil: 4 tablespoons

Procedure

Step 1: Prepare the Roasted Bengal Gram Powder

Using a mixer or grinder, blend the roasted Bengal gram into a fine powder. This powder will add a nutty flavor and thickness to the dish. Set it aside for later use.

Step 2: Temper the Spices

Heat 4 tablespoons of oil in a frying pan over high flame. Add the following spices one by one, with a few seconds gap between each addition:

• Urad Dal
• Mustard Seeds
• Cumin Seeds
• Dry Red Chili

Sauté the spices for about a minute until they turn golden brown and release a fragrant aroma.

Step 3: Add Capsicum and Green Chilies

Add the chopped capsicum and sliced green chilies to the pan. Stir-fry them over high flame for about 1 minute, ensuring they are well coated with the tempered spices.

Step 4: Incorporate Turmeric Powder and Ajwain

Mix in 1/2 tablespoon of turmeric powder and 1 tablespoon of ajwain (carom seeds) into the pan. Stir thoroughly and let it cook for another minute over high flame. The turmeric adds color and health benefits, while the ajwain enhances the flavor.

Note: For an intensified flavor, you can fry the ajwain separately in a little oil before adding it to the pan.

Step 5: Season with Salt

Add salt according to your taste (approximately 1/2 tablespoon). Mix well to ensure the salt is evenly distributed. Sauté for an additional minute.

Step 6: Add Mashed Garlic and Cook

Introduce the mashed garlic pods into the pan. Reduce the flame to medium and cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the capsicum to soften and the flavors to meld together.

Step 7: Add Roasted Bengal Gram Powder

Sprinkle the prepared roasted Bengal gram powder over the capsicum mixture. Stir thoroughly to combine all the ingredients. Continue to sauté over medium flame for another 5 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. The gram powder will give the dish a slightly thick consistency and a delightful nuttiness.

Step 8: Serve the Capsicum Fry

Turn off the flame once the curry is ready. Transfer the Capsicum Fry to a serving dish. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves if desired.

Conclusion

Your hot and spicy Capsicum Fry is now ready to be enjoyed. This vibrant and tasty dish makes an excellent accompaniment to steamed rice, pulka, or roti. The combination of crunchy capsicum, aromatic spices, and the unique flavor of roasted Bengal gram powder creates a delightful culinary experience. This recipe is not only delicious but also a great way to include more vegetables in your diet. Serve it at your next meal and watch it become a family favorite!