• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
  • Skip to footer
  • Home
  • About
    • Contact
  • Recipes
  • Articles
  • Subscribe

MyGoodFoodWorld

menu icon
go to homepage
  • Home
  • About
    • Contact
  • Recipes
  • Articles
  • Subscribe
subscribe
search icon
Homepage link
  • Home
  • About
    • Contact
  • Recipes
  • Articles
  • Subscribe
×
Home » Easy Vegetables and Greens Recipes

Published: Aug 18, 2020 · Modified: Oct 5, 2023 by Padma Kumar

Easy Besan Shimla Mirch Recipe

Jump to Recipe Jump to Video Print Recipe

Besan Shimla mirch is an easy recipe in which bell peppers (capsicum) and chickpea flour (besan) are sautéed with spices and aromatics to make a dish that is truly delicious! This recipe is naturally vegan and comes together in just 20 minutes.

YouTube video

This post contains helpful notes and tips to help you make the perfect dish. However, if you are in a rush, please use the "Jump to Recipe" link above or the "Jump to" links below to get to the section you want.

Growing up, capsicum was not one of my favorite vegetables. Now it is and I use it in so many ways - in pastas, stir fries, veggie bakes, curries, and noodle dishes.

This simple recipe of capsicum with besan is a personal favourite, mainly because the flavors are so amazing and this dish is so versatile. If you love capsicum too then do try this recipe. It has a beautiful texture - the chickpea flour brings a nutty flavor and lovely texture to the dish.

Is there a vegetable that you did not like before and now love? Let me know in the comments below. I would love to hear from you. - Padma

Jump to:
  • What is Shimla Mirch?
  • About this Shimla Mirch Besan Recipe
  • Allergens Free Labels
  • Ingredients
  • Making besan capsicum recipe
  • Notes, Tips and Storage
  • Serving this besan wali Shimla Mirch
  • FAQs
  • 📖 Recipe
  • Comments

What is Shimla Mirch?

Shimla Mirch, the name for bell peppers (capsicum) in some parts of India, is a type of sweet pepper. 

Even though not originally from India, they have become a part of Indian cuisine, particularly in Indo-Chinese dishes and regional specialties. It is believed that the British brought the seeds of this vegetable to Shimla, that used to be their summer capital in India.

What are the different types of Shimla Mirchi?

Shimla Mirchi, or bell peppers (capsicum), are sweet peppers that feature prominently in Indian cuisine, especially in some regional and Indo-Chinese dishes.

Shimla Mirchi is usually green, but red and yellow varieties are also common. Some less popular colors are orange and white.

About this Shimla Mirch Besan Recipe

This is a popular dish in many regions of India. In Maharashtrian cuisine, this dish is called capsicum zunka. In Gujarati cuisine, it is called Shimla mirch besan sabji. Rajasthani people call it besan wali Shimla mirch (wali means “with,”) and in other parts this dish is called capsicum besan bhaji.

Traditionally, this dish is made with green peppers; however, I love using all three colours - red, yellow, and green - just because the finished dish looks so gorgeous! The yellow and red capsicum also add a sweetness to the dish, which I love!

Allergens Free Labels

This recipe is naturally plant based and is also:

  • Gluten free (check your asafoetida brand, if using. Some are not gf.)
  • Grain free
  • Nut free
  • Dairy free
  • Soy free
  • Vegan

Ingredients

These ingredients bring such a lovely aroma and texture to the dish!

Check the recipe card for quantities.

Ingredients for besan capsicum recipe such as tri colored bell peppers, gram flour, cumin seeds, chilli powder, and aromatics are placed on a light coloured background for a photo.

Bell Peppers (Capsicum): I use red, yellow, and green colored ones for that extra pop of color. Feel free to use any one color, if that is what you have.

Besan: Also known as gram flour or chickpea flour. This adds a nutty flavor to the dish.

Chili pepper: For that spicy kick to the dish. It is ok to skip it.

Asafoetida: I use it for that extra umami depth. If you don't have it, skip it.

Onion: Red, yellow, or white - any will do.

Ground red chili: Use as mild or as hot as you like. I have used red chilli powder here more for the colour and flavor than the heat. Paprika will work perfectly well.

Oil: I have used neutral oil. You can use peanut or mustard oil. 

If you have any questions regarding these ingredients, feel free to ask in the comments section below and I will try my best to answer them for you.

Making besan capsicum recipe

This is a quick and easy recipe, perfect for those busy weeknight dinners when you want something satisfying on the table without a fuss.

Also see the video at the end of the recipe card.

Step 1: Start with some prep work

  • Wash, wipe and dice the Shimla mirch to bite sized pieces.
Yellow, red, and green capsicum are chopped and placed in white bowl.
  • Peel and chop the onion and garlic.
  • Chop the chili peppers, if using.
Finely chopped onion, garlic, green chilli pepper are placed in a white plate for making sabji.

Step 2: Roast the besan.

Place the skillet over medium heat. Add the besan and roast it for 3-4 minutes, stirring constantly, until it smells fragrant. Remove from the heat and transfer it to a bowl or a plate. Set it aside.

Roasted besan enhances the overall flavor profile of the dish. I recommend that you do not skip this step.

Besan (gram flour) is roasting in a skillet for sabzi recipe.

Step 3: Make the sabji.

Heat oil in a skillet on medium high heat. Add the cumin seeds and asafoetida, if using. When the cumin seeds turn darker in color, add the chopped onion, garlic and chili peppers. Stir fry for a couple of minutes or until you see the onions turn paler.

Add the diced bell peppers and the spices - salt, ½ teaspoon turmeric, 4 teaspoon coriander powder, and 2 teaspoon red chilli powder. Mix. Cover and cook for 3-4 minutes.

A spicy Indian sabji of Shimla mirch with colorful peppers is being cooked in a wide steel skillet.

Remove the lid and sprinkle the roasted chickpea flour evenly over the veggies. Stir well. Lower the heat to medium and cook for another 3-4 minutes or until the peppers are tender but still crisp.

A colourful dish of capsicum with spices such as cumin and chilli powder is placed in a skillet.

Remove from the heat. That's it! Besan Shimla mirch recipe is easy, right?!

To make it taste zingy, street food style, add 2 teaspoon lemon juice and mix well.

Serve as a side dish with your main course. See section below for suggestions.

Shimla mirch sautéed with besan and spices is served in a plate with some roti placed next to it in a plate.

Notes, Tips and Storage

Cooking the peppers: My worst nightmare is having soggy, limp peppers! They taste bitter and horrible when overcooked! Do keep an eye on them as they cook quickly.

Texture of the dish: The finished dish should have capsicum that is cooked through but retains a juicy crunch.

Roasting gram flour: Roasted besan adds a lovely aroma to the dish. Unless properly roasted, the finished dish will have a ‘doughy’ taste to it which is not so nice! When roasting, gram flour can quickly turn from the “ooh, lovely aroma” stage to dark brown burnt flour in a matter of seconds.

Top tip: roast the besan over medium flame.

Storage: Store leftovers, if any, in a fridge-safe container with a tight lid. It will keep for up to 3 days.

Any doubts or questions? Feel free to ask via the comments below. I will try my best to answer them for you. - Padma

Serving this besan wali Shimla Mirch

There are many ways of enjoying this versatile dish. Here are some suggestions:

  • Enjoy it as part of a big meal that consists of other dishes such as smoked aubergine curry, paneer butter masala, spiced onions, and vegetable pulao, with plain roti or bullet naan.
  • Make it a part of a simple gluten free meal of rice or cumin rice with green moong dal.
  • It can be a perfect filling for your wraps and sandwiches, also!

FAQs

What can be made from Shimla Mirch?

Shimla Mirch, also known as bell peppers or capsicum, is a versatile vegetable that can be used in a wide variety of dishes. Here are some popular dishes and preparations that can be made using Shimla Mirch:
Stuffed bell peppers, also known as Bharwan Shimla Mirch.
Stir fry of bell peppers with other veggies such as cabbage, carrots, and spinach.
Potato and capsicum sabji, also known as Aloo Shimla Mirch.
Roasted Shimla mirch chutney which can also be used as a dip or spread.
Capsicum curry
Bell pepper salsa

What is the English name for Shimla Mirch?

The English name for Shimla Mirch is bell pepper (US), peppers (UK) and capsicum (India).

Is bell pepper and capsicum same?

Yes, bell pepper and capsicum refer to the same vegetable. In various English-speaking regions, it is known by either name. Bell pepper is the more common term in North America, while capsicum is commonly used in other parts of the world, including the United Kingdom, Australia, and India.

If you have made this easy besan Shimla mirch recipe, please take a moment to leave a comment and a rating below. This will make me super happy and motivate me to create more good content for you! You can also engage with me on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram xx Padma

📖 Recipe

Diced colored capsicum sautéed with spices and onions are placed on a grey round plate.

Besan Shimla Mirch Recipe

Padma Kumar
Besan Shimla mirch recipe is a simple and easy side dish in which Shimla mirch (bell peppers / capsicum) are sautéed with besan (chickpea / gram flour) and garlic and spices. Roasted gram flour adds a lovely depth to the dish.
I use a mix of colourful peppers which look so beautiful in this dish! This bell pepper recipe with chickpea flour is a simple, one-pan, quick dish that looks gorgeous and tastes delicious.
This recipe is naturally vegan and gluten free.
Do see the step by step photos above and the video below as well.
5 from 91 votes
Print Pin Email Save Saved Recipe!
Prep Time 5 minutes mins
Cook Time 15 minutes mins
Total Time 20 minutes mins
Course Side Dish
Cuisine Indian, Rajasthani
Servings 4
Calories 199 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 large skillet with lid
  • 1 mixing spoon
  • 1 bowl or plate,, to tip the roasted chickpea flour into

Ingredients
  

  • 3 large (~650g) Shimla mirch (bell peppers / capsicum)
  • 6 tablespoons besan (gram/ chickpea flour)

Aromatics

  • 1 large (~150g) onion
  • 5 cloves (~15g) garlic
  • 2 chili peppers, or as many as you can handle!

Spices and flavorings

  • 3 tablespoons neutral oil
  • 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
  • ¼ teaspoon powdered asafetida (hing), optional
  • ½ teaspoon turmeric
  • 4 teaspoons coriander powder
  • 2 teaspoons red chili powder, mild
  • 1 and ½ teaspoons salt, adjust to taste

Instructions
 

Prep

  • Wash, wipe and dice the Shimla mirch to bite sized pieces.
  • Peel and chop the onion and garlic.
  • Chop the chili peppers.

Roast the besan

  • Heat the skillet over medium heat. Roast the besan for 3-4 minutes, stirring constantly, until it smells fragrant. Remove from the heat and transfer it to a bowl or a plate. Set it aside.

Make the besan capsicum recipe

  • Heat oil in a skillet on medium high heat. Add the cumin seeds and asafoetida.
    3 tablespoons neutral oil, 1 teaspoon cumin seeds, ¼ teaspoon powdered asafetida (hing)
  • When the cumin seeds turn darker in color, add the chopped onion, garlic and chili peppers. Fry for a couple of minutes or until you see the onions turn paler.
    1 large (~150g) onion, 5 cloves (~15g) garlic, 2 chili peppers
  • Add the diced bell peppers and the spices - salt, turmeric, coriander powder, and red chili powder. Mix. Cover and cook for 3-4 minutes.
    3 large (~650g) Shimla mirch (bell peppers / capsicum), ½ teaspoon turmeric, 4 teaspoons coriander powder, 2 teaspoons red chili powder, 1 and ½ teaspoons salt
  • Remove the lid and sprinkle the roasted chickpea flour evenly over the veggies. This will stop the flour from clumping together. Stir well. Lower the heat to medium and cook for another 3-4 minutes or until the peppers are tender but still crisp.
    6 tablespoons besan (gram/ chickpea flour)
  • Remove from the heat and enjoy as a side dish with your main course. You can also use this dish as a filling for sandwiches or wraps.

Video

YouTube video

Notes

Allergens Free Labels: This recipe is naturally vegan. It is also gluten-free (check the asafoetida, if using), nut-free, soy-free, and grain-free. 
Oil: Use peanut or mustard oil for more flavor. 
Asafoetida: This spice, also called hing, gives a nice fragrance to the dish. You can skip it if you want. If you use it, check the label to ensure it is gluten-free.

Alternative quantities provided in the recipe card are for 1x only.

Allergens Disclaimer

Our content aims to be informative and educational, but it should not replace professional medical advice. Since manufacturing processes can vary and cross-contamination is possible, it's essential to verify product labels and allergen information. Make sure all ingredients align with your specific allergies. As readers, you bear the responsibility for ensuring allergen safety when buying or consuming foods.

Nutrition Facts
Besan Shimla Mirch Recipe
Amount per Serving
Calories
199
% Daily Value*
Fat
 
12.2
g
19
%
Saturated Fat
 
1.6
g
10
%
Sodium
 
2243
mg
98
%
Potassium
 
463
mg
13
%
Carbohydrates
 
19.2
g
6
%
Fiber
 
6.4
g
27
%
Sugar
 
6.6
g
7
%
Protein
 
5
g
10
%
Calcium
 
251
mg
25
%
Iron
 
2
mg
11
%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.
Calories
199
Calcium
 
251
mg
25
%
Iron
 
2
mg
11
%

Disclosure: The nutritional information is calculated using an online calculator and is based on available ingredients and preparation. It should not be considered a substitute for a professional nutritionists' advice. Changing the quantities and cooking technique will alter the nutritional calculations.

Keyword bell pepper, besan, capsicum, peppers, sauteed, zunka
Like this recipe? Please share it with your friends @mygoodfoodworld or tag #mygoodfoodworld

More Easy Vegetables and Greens Recipes

  • Pasta and spinach sauce are served in a round white lunch bowl. The bowl is placed on a grey colored table.
    Creamy Pasta in Spinach Sauce (without cream!)
  • A simple dish of carrots, peas, and sliced coconut are served in a round, light blue plate.
    Frozen Peas and Carrots Recipe
  • Aloo jeera dry sabzi is served in a black cast iron pan. The dish is garnished with a spring of fresh cilantro.
    Skillet Aloo Jeera (Cumin Potatoes): 20 Minute Recipe
  • A plate of colorful silicone molds with baked muffins is placed on a dark grey background. Next the plate, a black colored butter knife and some more muffins in their molds are placed.
    Easy Veggie Muffins: Savory, Eggless, Gluten-Free

Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. Jenn says

    April 11, 2024 at 5:08 pm

    5 stars
    I love how veggie-forward this is! And the spices? Wow! So good, especially the cumin - loved every bite!

    Reply
    • Padma Kumar says

      April 12, 2024 at 8:18 pm

      Thank you for your feedback Jenn. Love that you loved it 🙂

      Reply
  2. Kelly says

    April 05, 2024 at 9:26 pm

    5 stars
    I was so excited to try this and it did not disappoint! I really love the flavors especially from the spices! It was such a good filling to use for tortilla wraps!

    Reply
    • Padma Kumar says

      April 12, 2024 at 8:29 pm

      Thank you so much for your feedback, Kelly. My daughter too loves this in the wraps 🙂

      Reply
  3. Tracy McHugh says

    April 04, 2024 at 5:27 am

    5 stars
    This looks so good! I love Indian food and I love bell peppers. I will definitely be trying this recipe.

    Reply
    • Padma Kumar says

      April 12, 2024 at 8:29 pm

      Thank you Tracy, I look forward to you trying it soon.

      Reply
  4. Sarah says

    April 04, 2024 at 3:04 am

    This looks delicious and fairly easy to make. I'm always looking for new recipes to try and I'm going to add this one to my list. Can't wait to make it.

    Reply
    • Padma Kumar says

      April 12, 2024 at 8:30 pm

      Thank you Sarah. Look forward to trying this soon.

      Reply
  5. Helen at the Lazy Gastronome says

    February 07, 2024 at 6:53 pm

    5 stars
    I love the bell pepper and chick peas together. And all the wonderfully aromatic spices just tied it all together. This recipe is a keeper!!

    Reply
  6. Tina says

    February 02, 2024 at 9:18 am

    5 stars
    This dish is so good! I love that it is naturally vegan and comes together in just 20 minutes.

    Reply
  7. Andrea says

    February 01, 2024 at 9:48 pm

    5 stars
    Ooh! I'm always looking for ways to use my chickpea flour. This looks really delicious. Thank you.

    Reply
  8. Alexandra says

    February 01, 2024 at 8:06 am

    5 stars
    Bell peppers are one of my favourite ingredients, and I am always looking for new ways to enjoy them. This is a delicious dish - I love the combination of spices and besan. So tasty! Will make again 🙂

    Reply
5 from 91 votes (84 ratings without comment)

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe Rating




Primary Sidebar

Picture of Padma Kumar creator of mygoodfoodworld.

Hi, I'm Padma! I am a passionate cook and can cook through any mood! My cooking is all about simple, healthy meals made with fresh ingredients and with a lot of love. As a mum and an early childhood educator, I deeply care about raising healthy eaters.

More about me →

Your questions answered!

  • Cooked red lentils are placed in a white high bowl. The bowl is placed on a folded grey colored cloth with a spring of fresh herb next to it.
    How to cook red lentils on stovetop

  • Is buck wheat gluten free? Buckwheat groats spilling out of a gunny sack.
    Is buckwheat gluten free? Plus How to Cook Buckwheat Groats

  • Cooked instant couscous placed in a round black bowl with a fork on the side and some cilantro leaves.
    Is couscous gluten free? Plus, how to cook couscous

  • A cane basket with some freshly baked naan breads and a bowl of curry are placed next to each other.
    Roti vs Naan: The difference between these breads

  • To answer the questions about how to grow thick mung bean sprouts, this is an image of sprouted mung beans placed in a heap in a wooden bowl.
    How to grow thick mung bean sprouts

  • Some pinto beans and black beans are spilling out of burlap bags on to a table top.
    Black Beans vs. Pinto Beans

Winter Comforts

  • Vegetarian macaroni and tomatoes dish served in a round white bowl-plate which is placed on a light grey mat.
    Macaroni and Tomatoes Recipe

  • Spiced spinach puree with paneer cubes and garnished with slivers of ginger and heavy cream. The bowl is placed on a piece of burlap.
    Palak Paneer Dhaba Style Recipe

  • Chickpea lentils that are cooked in a spicy sauce and garnished with fresh cilantro are placed in a white bowl.
    Home Style Chana Dal Fry Recipe In Pressure Cooker

  • A photo of a bowl of Indian kala chana curry with a side of carrots and a garnish of cilantro.
    The best recipe of kala chana (black chickpeas)

  • Shahi paneer recipe is made into a creamy and flavorful main dish. It is served in a bowl which is placed on burlap. Round sliced red onions are placed in a white bowl next to the curry bowl.
    Shahi Paneer Recipe Without Onion and Garlic

  • A bowl of yellow lentil soup with a gold spoon on a red and white checkered tablecloth. The soup has black and red specks.
    Yellow Lentil Soup

Footer

Connect with me on Social Media

  • Facebook
  • Instagram
  • LinkedIn
  • Pinterest
  • Twitter
  • YouTube

Footer

↑ back to top

About

  • Privacy Policy
  • Accessibility Policy

Newsletter

Subscribe for free recipes & cooking tips.

Contact

  • About Me
  • Contact

© 2025 MyGoodFoodWorld

Accept Cookies
We use cookies on our website to give you the most relevant experience by remembering your preferences and repeat visits. By clicking “Accept”, you consent to the use of ALL the cookies.
.
Cookie settingsACCEPT
Manage consent

Privacy Overview

This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. Out of these, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. But opting out of some of these cookies may affect your browsing experience.
Necessary
Always Enabled
Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. These cookies ensure basic functionalities and security features of the website, anonymously.
CookieDurationDescription
cookielawinfo-checbox-analytics11 monthsThis cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Analytics".
cookielawinfo-checbox-functional11 monthsThe cookie is set by GDPR cookie consent to record the user consent for the cookies in the category "Functional".
cookielawinfo-checbox-others11 monthsThis cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Other.
cookielawinfo-checkbox-necessary11 monthsThis cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookies is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Necessary".
cookielawinfo-checkbox-performance11 monthsThis cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Performance".
viewed_cookie_policy11 monthsThe cookie is set by the GDPR Cookie Consent plugin and is used to store whether or not user has consented to the use of cookies. It does not store any personal data.
Functional
Functional cookies help to perform certain functionalities like sharing the content of the website on social media platforms, collect feedbacks, and other third-party features.
Performance
Performance cookies are used to understand and analyze the key performance indexes of the website which helps in delivering a better user experience for the visitors.
Analytics
Analytical cookies are used to understand how visitors interact with the website. These cookies help provide information on metrics the number of visitors, bounce rate, traffic source, etc.
Advertisement
Advertisement cookies are used to provide visitors with relevant ads and marketing campaigns. These cookies track visitors across websites and collect information to provide customized ads.
Others
Other uncategorized cookies are those that are being analyzed and have not been classified into a category as yet.
SAVE & ACCEPT
23 shares

Rate This Recipe

Your vote:




A rating is required
A name is required
An email is required

Recipe Ratings without Comment

Something went wrong. Please try again.