Capsicum - මාළු මිරිස්

Hungarian Yellow Wax (HYW), C.A. - 8

Widely cultivated in up-country and mid-country wet zone in Sri Lanka

South America

Although not very ‘hot’, the flavour depends on the maturity of the vegetable. The ripest are generally sweeter than the rest.

Capsicum possesses anti-bacterial, anti-carcinogenic, analgesic and anti-diabetic properties. It also has been found to reduce triglycerides and LDL cholesterol levels in those suffering from obesity. Fresh capsicums are rich in vitamin-C, which helps the human body protect from scurvy; develop resistance against infectious agents and scavenge harmful, pro-inflammatory free radicals from the body. Capsicums are also a good source for vitamin A.

Although bright yellow in colour, capsicum may turn green, red, or orange as they ripen Capsicum is often called Banana Pepper due to its curvy shape yellowish colour, making it similar to a banana.

Prepare a mouth-watering dish of Hot Stuffed Capsicum to accompany the other dishes at your meal. Start by melting butter and sautéing finely chopped vegetables until soft. Add seasonings and bread crumbs and mix well. Add mayonnaise and mix. Split peppers down one side. Stuff the capsicum with mixture and dot with one tablespoon tomato sauce. Sprinkle with seasoned bread crumbs. Place in buttered baking dish. Bake at 3250 for 1 hour. Just before done, place strips of grated cheese on top of each pepper and cook until cheese is bubbly. Sit back and watch your family members or friends fight over the dish!