Shimla Mirch | Easiest way to make

A Simple Dish with Regional Significance

Shimla Mirch Ki Sabji, or bell pepper curry, is a popular vegetarian dish in India, especially known for its vibrant, mild flavor. While it’s enjoyed across the entire country, it's most commonly prepared in regions like Punjab, Uttar Pradesh, and Gujarat. These regions, with their rich history of vegetarian cuisine, incorporate bell peppers into various dishes, often combining them with spices and ingredients native to these areas. In Punjab, for example, Shimla Mirch is often cooked with a blend of onions, tomatoes, and a variety of local spices, resulting in a flavorful and comforting dish. Meanwhile, in Gujarat, bell peppers may be paired with slightly sweeter flavors, reflecting the region’s penchant for sweet-spicy combinations.

Working Time 20 Min.

Baking Time 45 Min.

Level easy

Shimla Mirch Ki Sabji is a quick dish of roasted bell peppers with Indian spices. Oven-roasting adds smoky depth, making it perfect for busy days. Pair it with roti, naan, or rice for a wholesome, easy meal.

Recipe from Andrea

Adaptability Across Indian Regions

While Shimla Mirch Ki Sabji has its roots in the North and West of India, the dish is adaptable and can easily be tweaked according to regional preferences. For example, in the southern regions like Kerala or Tamil Nadu, this dish may be given a different twist by adding coconut milk or curry leaves to infuse a distinct South Indian flavor. In contrast, in the North, especially in Punjabi cuisine, it is common to use ghee and a rich combination of garam masala for deeper flavors. These regional variations make this dish not only a staple in various parts of India but also allow for creativity in the kitchen, catering to different taste profiles..

Health Benefits and Versatility in Cooking | Easy and quick

Another reason Shimla Mirch Ki Sabji is widely loved is its health benefits. Bell peppers, or Shimla Mirch, are rich in vitamins A and C, making them excellent for boosting immunity and promoting skin health. Combined with onions, garlic, and tomatoes, this dish becomes a nutrient-dense, low-calorie meal that is both filling and healthy. Whether you are cooking it for lunch or as a side dish for dinner, Shimla Mirch Ki Sabji can easily be customized. You can add extra vegetables like peas or potatoes for a heartier version or even pair it with proteins like paneer to elevate the dish. This flexibility makes it an easy, go-to option for anyone looking to make a quick, nutritious, and flavorful meal.

With its simplicity, versatility, and robust flavor, Shimla Mirch Ki Sabji stands as a testament to the beauty of Indian vegetarian cooking. Whether you're a novice cook or an experienced chef, this dish provides an easy entry point into the world of Indian cuisine, offering both traditional and innovative ways to enjoy it.

Instruction Video

3 Tips for Perfect Shimla Mirch with Tadka:

1. Roasting Time: Keep an eye on the vegetables in the oven to prevent over-charring, but make sure they are well-roasted for the right texture.

2. Adjusting Spice Levels: Feel free to increase or decrease the number of green chilies and the quantity of masalas based on your preferred spice level.

3. Tadka Variation: You can also add a pinch of hing (asafoetida) to the tadka for a deeper, more savory taste.

Working time	Baking Time	Niveau
20 Min	45 Min	simple

Ingredients:

• 4 medium bell peppers (Shimla Mirch), halved and deseeded

• 2 large onions, halved

• 3 ripe tomatoes, halved

• 6 garlic cloves, unpeeled

• 3 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tsp salt

For the Tadka:

• 1 tbsp oil (vegetable or mustard)

• 1 large onion, finely chopped

• 2 green chilies, slit

• 1 tsp garam masala

• 1 tsp kitchen king masala

• 1 tsp coriander powder

• 1 tsp cumin powder

• Salt to taste

Instruction:

1. Roasting the Vegetables:

   • Preheat the oven to 200°C (390°F).

   • Wash and halve the bell peppers, onions, tomatoes, and garlic. Place them on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle with salt.

   • Roast the vegetables in the oven for 25-30 minutes until they are tender and develop a nice char.

2. Preparing the Tadka:

   • In a separate pan, heat the oil for the tadka.

   • Add the finely chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.

   • Toss in the slit green chilies and cook for another minute.

   • Add the spices: garam masala, kitchen king masala, coriander powder, cumin powder, and salt. Stir well to release the aromas of the spices.

3. Combining:

   • Once the roasted vegetables have cooled slightly, peel off the skins from the bell peppers and tomatoes. Keep the flesh, discard the skins, and place the flesh into a pot.

   • Add the sautéed tadka mixture to the pot with the roasted vegetables. Stir well and simmer for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

See the Instructions Video for help

Tips for Serving

• This dish can be enjoyed with naan, roti, or rice. The smoky flavors from the roasted vegetables paired with the aromatic tadka create a beautiful fusion that’s both hearty and healthy. The use of the tadka adds the signature Indian flavor profile that will transport you straight to the heart of Indian kitchens.

  
  

Enjoy your homemade Quarkstollen as a delightful centerpiece to your holiday celebrations!

FAQ's Find all your Answers about Shimla Mirch | Easiest way to make | here:

• What makes Shimla Mirch Ki Sabji unique in Indian cuisine?Shimla Mirch Ki Sabji stands out for its simplicity and versatility. The dish highlights the natural flavors of bell peppers combined with a medley of Indian spices. It is a great example of how basic ingredients like onions, tomatoes, and garlic can create a hearty and flavorful meal.

  
  

• Can I make this dish without roasting the vegetables?Yes, you can prepare Shimla Mirch Ki Sabji without roasting. In the traditional method, the vegetables are sautéed directly in a pan. However, roasting adds a smoky flavor that enhances the taste of the dish.

  
  

• Is Shimla Mirch Ki Sabji spicy?The spice level can be adjusted according to your preference. While green chilies and garam masala contribute to the heat, you can reduce or omit these ingredients if you prefer a milder dish.

  
  

• What are some good pairings with Shimla Mirch Ki Sabji?This dish pairs wonderfully with Indian breads like roti, naan, or paratha. It also complements steamed rice or jeera rice for a simple yet satisfying meal.

  
  

• Can I add other vegetables or proteins to the recipe?Absolutely! Shimla Mirch Ki Sabji is versatile and can be enhanced with additional vegetables like potatoes, peas, or carrots. You can also add paneer or tofu for extra protein.

  
  

• How long can Shimla Mirch Ki Sabji be stored?This dish can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheat it on the stove or in the microwave before serving, adding a splash of water if needed to adjust the consistency.

Shimla Mirch Easiest Way To make!

This Shimla Mirch with a tadka twist is a quick, flavorful dish that pairs beautifully with Indian breads and rice, making it perfect for both casual meals and festive occasions. The roasted vegetables add a unique depth of flavor, while the tadka gives it a traditional Indian touch, creating a balanced, satisfying dish!

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