Capsicum Rice

Detailed Capsicum Rice Recipe (Sattvik Style)

Capsicum (Bell Pepper) Rice provides a sweet, slightly peppery flavor profile without the extreme heat of chilies. This vibrant dish is visually stunning when made with mixed color peppers.

1. Ingredients

• Rice: 1.5 cups cooked and cooled long-grain rice.
• Capsicum (Bell Peppers): 1.5 cups finely chopped (mix of green, red, and yellow if possible).
• Ghee/Oil: 2 tablespoons.
• Mustard Seeds: 1 tsp.
• Cashews/Peanuts: 2 tablespoons.
• Ginger: 1/2 inch (finely grated).
• Spice Mix (Vangi Bath Powder): 1.5 tbsp (A traditional blend of roasted coriander seeds, chana dal, urad dal, cinnamon, and red chilies).
• Turmeric Powder: 1/4 tsp.
• Salt: To taste.
• Lemon Juice: 1 teaspoon (optional).

2. How to Cook - Step-by-Step Guidance

Step 1: Prepare the Spices If you do not have pre-made Vangi Bath powder, you can quickly dry roast 1 tbsp coriander seeds, 1 tsp chana dal, 1/2 inch cinnamon, and 2 dry red chilies, and grind them to a fine powder.

Step 2: Tempering Heat ghee in a wide pan. Add mustard seeds. When they pop, add the cashews or peanuts and fry until golden.

Step 3: Sauté the Capsicum Add the grated ginger and sauté for a few seconds. Then, add the chopped capsicum and a pinch of salt. Sauté on medium-high heat for 3-4 minutes. The capsicum should cook slightly but retain a strong crunch—do not let it turn soggy.

Step 4: The Spice Infusion Lower the heat. Add the spice powder (Vangi Bath powder) and turmeric. Toss the capsicum in the spices for 1 minute until highly fragrant. Turn off the heat.

Step 5: Fold the Rice Add the cooled rice and remaining salt. Gently mix until the rice takes on the color of the roasted spices and is evenly mixed with the colorful peppers. Add a dash of lemon juice if you prefer a subtle tang.

3. What are the Health Benefits?

• Antioxidant Rich: Red and yellow bell peppers are incredibly rich in beta-carotene and Vitamin A, vital for eye health.
• Metabolic Support: The mild heat from the capsicum boosts metabolism without irritating the stomach lining.
• Low Calorie, High Fiber: Capsicum is very low in calories but provides excellent roughage for digestion.

4. Who Can Avoid?

• Nightshade Sensitivities: Capsicum is a nightshade vegetable. Individuals with severe autoimmune protocols or specific joint sensitivities to nightshades should avoid it.