Capsicum rice, also known as bell pepper rice, is a simple yet flavorful South Indian-style rice dish. It combines the crunch of capsicum with aromatic spices and cooked rice, making it a perfect lunchbox recipe or quick dinner option. This dish is light, healthy, and gets ready in under 30 minutes.
If you love one-pot meals packed with taste and nutrition, this capsicum rice recipe will become a favorite in your kitchen.
Table of Contents
⭐ Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare
- Perfect for using leftover rice
- Nutritious and colorful with capsicum
- Vegan and gluten-free recipe
🧾 Ingredients
For the Rice:
- 2 cups cooked rice (preferably cooled, leftover rice works best)
- 2 medium capsicums (green, red, or yellow), thinly sliced
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 2 green chilies, slit
- 1 tomato, chopped (optional for tang)
- 2 tbsp oil or ghee
- ½ tsp mustard seeds
- ½ tsp cumin seeds
- 8–10 curry leaves
- 1 tsp ginger-garlic paste
- ½ tsp turmeric powder
- 1 tsp red chili powder (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp garam masala or sambar powder
- Salt to taste
- Fresh coriander leaves, chopped (for garnish)
Optional Topping:
- 2 tbsp roasted peanuts or cashews
🍳 How to Make Capsicum Rice
Step 1: Cook Rice
- Prepare plain rice and let it cool completely. Fluffy, non-sticky rice works best.
Step 2: Prepare the Masala
- Heat oil or ghee in a pan.
- Add mustard seeds and let them splutter.
- Add cumin seeds, curry leaves, and green chilies. Sauté for a few seconds.
- Add sliced onions and cook until golden.
- Mix in ginger-garlic paste and sauté until raw smell disappears.
Step 3: Add Capsicum
- Add sliced capsicum and cook on medium flame for 3–4 minutes.
- Stir in turmeric, red chili powder, and garam masala (or sambar powder).
- Add chopped tomato (if using) and cook until soft.
Step 4: Mix with Rice
- Add cooked rice to the masala and gently mix until well combined.
- Adjust salt and cook for another 2 minutes on low flame.
Step 5: Garnish & Serve
- Garnish with coriander leaves and roasted peanuts or cashews.
- Serve hot with papad, raita, or pickle.
💡 Tips & Variations
- Colorful rice: Use a mix of red, yellow, and green capsicum for a vibrant dish.
- Nutty twist: Add roasted sesame seeds or grated coconut for extra flavor.
- Spice variation: Replace garam masala with curry powder for a different taste.
- Protein boost: Mix in cooked chickpeas, paneer, or tofu for a wholesome meal.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
- Enjoy with raita (yogurt dip) like cucumber raita or boondi raita.
- Pair with papad and pickle for a traditional South Indian touch.
- Serve with a light dal or curry for a complete meal.
❓ FAQs
1. Can I make capsicum rice with brown rice?
Yes! Brown rice or even quinoa works well for a healthier version.
2. How do I prevent the rice from turning mushy?
Always use cooled or leftover rice, as it mixes better with spices without becoming sticky.
3. Can I meal-prep capsicum rice?
Yes, you can make it in advance and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Just reheat before serving.
🌟 Final Thoughts
The capsicum rice recipe is a quick, colorful, and nutritious dish perfect for busy weekdays. With the crunch of capsicum, the aroma of spices, and the comforting texture of rice, this one-pot meal never disappoints.
👉 Try this recipe today and enjoy a simple yet delicious lunch or dinner!