Recipe for Shimla Bharwa Sabji with Chapatis
Indian cuisine is renowned for its
diversity, flavors, and creativity in bringing together vegetables and spices
to create wholesome meals. Among the many popular recipes, Shimla Bharwa Sabji
(stuffed capsicum dish) is a true delight for both the eyes and the palate.
When paired with freshly made chapatis, it becomes a nutritious and satisfying
meal perfect for lunch or dinner. This dish is versatile, as you can stuff the
capsicums (Shimla mirch) with a variety of fillings like potatoes, paneer, or
even lentils, making it suitable for different tastes and dietary preferences.
Ingredients for Shimla
Bharwa Sabji
To prepare this flavorful dish, you will
need:
●
Medium-sized capsicums (Shimla
mirch) – 4 to 5
●
Potatoes – 3 (boiled and mashed)
●
Paneer (optional) – 100 gms
(grated)
●
Onions – 2 (finely chopped)
●
Green chilies – 2 (finely chopped)
●
Ginger-garlic paste – 1 teaspoon
●
Coriander leaves – 2 tablespoons
(chopped)
●
Garam masala – 1 teaspoon
●
Red chili powder – 1 teaspoon
●
Turmeric powder – ½ teaspoon
●
Coriander powder – 1 teaspoon
●
Cumin seeds – 1 teaspoon
●
Oil – 2 tablespoons
●
Salt – as per taste
●
Chapati dough (for serving)
Preparing the Stuffing
Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a pan. Add cumin seeds and let them
crackle.
Add onions,
green chilies, and ginger-garlic paste. Sauté until golden brown.
Add the
boiled mashed potatoes and grated paneer. Mix well.
Season the
mixture with turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, garam
masala, and salt.
Stir
everything together until the mixture becomes aromatic and slightly crisp.
Add chopped coriander leaves and turn off the flame. Let the
stuffing cool.
Preparing the Capsicums
Wash the capsicums and cut off the tops. Remove the seeds
carefully without breaking them.
Stuff each
capsicum with the prepared mixture and press it tightly to ensure the
filling stays intact.
Heat a flat
pan with 1 tablespoon of oil. Place the stuffed capsicums upright and
cover with a lid.
Cook on low
flame, turning them occasionally so all sides are evenly cooked.
The capsicums will become tender, slightly charred on the outside,
and filled with flavorful stuffing inside.
Serving with Chapatis
While the capsicums are cooking, prepare
fresh chapatis. Roll out small portions of dough into thin circles and cook
them on a hot tawa until they puff up slightly. Brush lightly with ghee if
desired.
Serve the hot Shimla Bharwa Sabji
alongside soft chapatis. The earthy taste of the capsicum combined with the
spicy potato-paneer filling pairs perfectly with the mild flavor of chapatis,
creating a balanced and wholesome meal.
Variations to Try
●
Besan stuffing: Roast gram flour (besan) with
spices and use it as a protein-rich filling.
●
Paneer-only stuffing: Skip potatoes and use a
mix of grated paneer and peas for a lighter version.
●
Rice stuffing: Leftover spiced rice makes a
great filling for capsicums.
Conclusion
Shimla Bharwa Sabji with chapatis is a
complete meal that not only satisfies hunger but also offers nutrition.
Capsicums are rich in Vitamin C and antioxidants, while the potato and paneer
filling provides a good balance of carbohydrates and protein. When served with
chapatis, this dish becomes an ideal choice for a homely, comforting, and
nourishing meal that the entire family can enjoy.
