Bengali-style Stuffed Capsicum

Ingredients

In this Bengali adaptation of the Turkish Biber dolması, we incorporate traditional Bengali spices and flavors to create a unique fusion dish. The original Turkish recipe typically uses ground beef or lamb as the main protein, while our Bengali version replaces it with minced chicken to cater to the preferences of the target cuisine. Additionally, we introduce Bengali spices such as cumin, coriander, and garam masala to enhance the flavors and give it an authentic Bengali touch. We alse have the original recipe for Biber dolması, so you can check it out.

• 4 large bell peppers (capsicum) 4 large bell peppers (capsicum)
• 200g minced chicken 200g minced chicken
• 2 medium potatoes, boiled and mashed 2 medium potatoes, boiled and mashed
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup peas 1/2 cup peas
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon cumin powder 1 teaspoon cumin powder
• 1 teaspoon coriander powder 1 teaspoon coriander powder
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1/2 teaspoon garam masala 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
• Salt to taste Salt to taste
• Fresh coriander leaves, for garnish Fresh coriander leaves, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 10g, 2g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 20g, 4g
• Protein: 18g
• Fiber: 4g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. 2.
   Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes.
3. 3.
   In a pan, heat the vegetable oil and sauté the chopped onions until golden brown.
4. 4.
   Add the minced chicken to the pan and cook until it turns brown.
5. 5.
   Add the peas, cumin powder, coriander powder, turmeric powder, garam masala, and salt. Mix well and cook for a few minutes.
6. 6.
   Remove the pan from heat and add the mashed potatoes. Mix until well combined.
7. 7.
   Stuff the bell peppers with the mixture and place them in a baking dish.
8. 8.
   Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the bell peppers are tender.
9. 9.
   Garnish with fresh coriander leaves before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Minced chicken — Make sure to cook the minced chicken thoroughly to ensure it is fully cooked and safe to consume.

Tips & Tricks

• You can substitute minced chicken with minced turkey or lamb for a different flavor.
• For a vegetarian version, replace the minced chicken with crumbled paneer or tofu.
• Adjust the spice levels according to your preference by adding more or less chili powder.
• Serve the stuffed capsicum with steamed rice or roti for a complete meal.
• To make it spicier, add a finely chopped green chili to the filling mixture.

Serving advice

Serve the Bengali-style Stuffed Capsicum as a main course dish accompanied by steamed rice or roti. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves for added freshness and flavor.

Presentation advice

Arrange the stuffed capsicum on a platter, ensuring they are evenly spaced and upright. The vibrant colors of the bell peppers will create an appealing visual display. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves for an added touch of green.