How to Make Aloo Shimla Mirch – A Classic Indian Potato and Capsicum Sabzi

 

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Introduction

Aloo Shimla Mirch, also known as Potato and Capsicum Sabzi, is a classic North Indian dry vegetable dish made with potatoes (aloo) and green bell peppers (shimla mirch), cooked with aromatic spices. This simple and flavourful recipe is a staple in Indian homes, perfect for lunch boxes, weekday meals, or even festive thalis.

Its vibrant colour, rustic flavour, and minimal use of ingredients make Aloo Shimla Mirch ki Sabzi a go-to dish for anyone looking to whip up something easy, healthy, and satisfying. Whether served with chapati, paratha, or dal-rice, it never fails to delight.

In this blog post, you’ll learn how to make aloo shimla mirch step-by-step using British English, with tips, variations, full nutritional value, and full Google SEO optimisation.

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What is Aloo Shimla Mirch?

Aloo: Potato – a common Indian vegetable loved for its versatility.

Shimla Mirch: Capsicum or green bell pepper – adds crunch and freshness to the dish.

Together, they make a vibrant, dry stir-fry that is seasoned with everyday Indian spices. It can be made with or without onion and garlic, making it adaptable for religious fasting or no-onion-garlic diets.

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Why You'll Love This Recipe

✅ Quick and easy to prepare

✅ Vegan and gluten-free

✅ Requires only basic spices and ingredients

✅ Perfect for tiffin or lunch

✅ Delicious with roti or rice

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Ingredients You’ll Need (Serves 3–4)

Vegetables:

3 medium potatoes (peeled and diced)

2 medium green capsicums (deseeded and chopped)

1 medium onion (optional, finely chopped)

1–2 green chillies (slit or chopped)

1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste (optional)

Spices & Seasoning:

2–3 tablespoons oil (sunflower, mustard or vegetable oil)

1 teaspoon cumin seeds

½ teaspoon turmeric powder

1 teaspoon coriander powder

½ teaspoon red chilli powder

½ teaspoon garam masala

Salt to taste

Fresh coriander leaves for garnish

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Preparation Tips Before Cooking

Dice potatoes into small cubes for even and quicker cooking.

Cut capsicum into medium-sized pieces to retain some crunch.

If using onion and garlic, prepare them in advance as Indian cooking moves quickly once the oil is hot.

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Step-by-Step Recipe – How to Make Aloo Shimla Mirch

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Step 1: Heat Oil and Temper Spices

1. In a heavy-bottomed pan or kadhai, heat 2–3 tablespoons of oil on medium flame.

2. Add cumin seeds and allow them to crackle.

3. Add green chillies (and hing if you prefer) and sauté for 30 seconds.

4. If using onion and ginger-garlic paste, add them now and sauté until light golden brown.

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Step 2: Add and Cook Potatoes

1. Add diced potatoes and mix well with the tempered oil and spices.

2. Cover with a lid and cook on medium heat for 6–8 minutes.

3. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. You may sprinkle 1–2 tablespoons of water if needed to avoid burning.

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Step 3: Add Capsicum (Shimla Mirch)

1. Once the potatoes are halfway cooked, add the chopped capsicum.

2. Mix gently to avoid breaking the vegetables.

3. Add turmeric powder, red chilli powder, coriander powder, and salt.

4. Cover again and cook for another 7–10 minutes on low to medium flame, until the vegetables are tender yet firm.

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Step 4: Finish with Garam Masala

1. Once both vegetables are cooked, remove the lid.

2. Increase the heat slightly to evaporate any extra moisture.

3. Sprinkle garam masala and stir gently.

4. Garnish with chopped fresh coriander leaves.

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Serving Suggestions

Serve hot with roti, paratha, or chapati for a wholesome meal.

Can also be enjoyed as a side dish with dal and rice.

Pack in lunchboxes with pickle and salad for a satisfying tiffin.

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Tips for the Best Aloo Shimla Mirch Sabzi

Don’t overcook the capsicum – it should retain some crunch.

Use mustard oil for a more traditional North Indian flavour.

Add a pinch of amchur (dry mango powder) or lemon juice for tanginess.

For extra spice, use kitchen king masala or crushed kasuri methi.

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Variations You Can Try

1. No-Onion-Garlic Version: Perfect for fasting or religious meals – skip onion and garlic entirely.

2. Add Tomatoes: For a slightly moist texture, add one chopped tomato after the potatoes.

3. Aloo Capsicum with Peas: Add boiled green peas for extra flavour and colour.

4. Punjabi-Style Version: Add a spoon of besan (gram flour) after the capsicum for a nutty flavour.

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Health Benefits of Aloo Shimla Mirch

Capsicum (Shimla Mirch) is rich in vitamin C, A, and antioxidants.

Potatoes provide energy, potassium, and dietary fibre.

The dish is naturally vegan and made with minimal oil.

Low in calories yet filling – great for light dinners or healthy lunches.

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Storage and Reheating

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.

Reheat in a pan or microwave. Sprinkle water if it feels dry.

Not suitable for freezing, as capsicum can lose texture upon thawing.

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Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Approximate)

> Based on moderate oil use and standard portion sizes.

Calories: 180–220 kcal

Carbohydrates: 25g

Protein: 3g

Fat: 9g

Fibre: 4g

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Can I make aloo shimla mirch without onion and garlic?

Yes, absolutely. It tastes just as delicious when cooked with just ginger and dry spices.

Q2: Can I use coloured bell peppers instead of green?

Yes. Red, yellow, or orange bell peppers add a sweet twist and extra colour.

Q3: Why is my capsicum too soft or soggy?

Capsicum cooks quickly. Add it only after the potatoes are halfway done, and cook uncovered at the end to avoid over-softening.

Q4: Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Yes. It keeps well in the fridge for up to 2 days and reheats nicely.

Q5: Can I add paneer to this sabzi?

Yes! Adding cubed paneer makes it richer and suitable for special occasions.

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Conclusion

Aloo Shimla Mirch is the epitome of Indian home-style cooking – simple, satisfying, and soul-warming. With minimal ingredients and easy steps, this classic sabzi offers the perfect balance of taste, nutrition, and convenience.

Whether you're a beginner in Indian cooking or a seasoned home cook, this recipe deserves a regular spot on your menu. Serve it hot with roti, dal, or rice and enjoy a truly comforting Indian meal.

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 Learn how to make aloo shimla mirch – a delicious and healthy Indian-

style potato and capsicum stir-fry. Quick, vegan, gluten-free and perfect with roti or rice.

--- write ✍️ by foodie Parmod.