Stuffed Hari Mirchi – A Spicy Delight with Simple Ingredients
Among all the traditional Indian sabzis, Stuffed Hari Mirchi holds a special place — especially for those who love bold flavors and enjoy experimenting with everyday ingredients. Whether you’re following a Jain diet or simply looking for a unique and quick side dish, this stuffed green chilli sabzi is a must-try. Made without onion, garlic, or ginger, this recipe is full of flavor and takes just a few minutes to prepare.
A Popular Jain-Friendly Side Dish
Stuffed green chillies are often enjoyed by the Jain community, where cooking without onion, garlic, and root vegetables is common. Yet, the flavors never feel lacking — thanks to a smart blend of spices and gram flour. This dish is perfect when paired with roti, thepla, paratha, or even khakra. If you’re concerned about the spice level, simply choose milder green chillies. That way, the aromatic stuffing gets its moment to shine, and the heat is gentle on the palate.
The Ingredients That Make It Special
The main ingredient in this dish is besan (gram flour), which not only binds the stuffing but also adds a toasty, nutty flavor when roasted. Ajwain (carom seeds) brings digestive benefits and a punch of earthiness, while hing (asafoetida) aids digestion and enhances flavor, especially in Jain recipes. The spice blend includes dhaniya-jeera powder, turmeric, red chilli, and amchur powder — each bringing warmth, heat, and tang. A touch of sugar balances the bitterness and spice, and coriander leaves add a fresh finish.
How to Prepare Stuffed Green Chillies ?
Start by washing 5–6 big green chillies. Pat them dry and make a slit down the middle, keeping the stems intact. Next, heat one tablespoon of oil in a pan and add ajwain and hing. Once fragrant, stir in half a cup of gram flour and roast it on medium heat until it turns golden brown and aromatic.
Add dhaniya-jeera powder and turmeric, then transfer the mix to a bowl. Now mix in red chilli powder, amchur powder, sugar (optional), salt, and finely chopped coriander. Add a spoonful of oil or water to help bind the stuffing. Carefully fill the prepared chillies with this spiced mixture.
In another pan, heat two tablespoons of oil and place the stuffed chillies gently into the pan. Cook on medium heat, turning them occasionally to ensure even cooking. Once the chillies become soft and lightly browned, sprinkle some extra stuffing on top for added crunch and flavor. Serve warm with roti, paratha, or even as a side to your dal-rice.
Why Is This Dish Both Healthy and Flavorful ?
This recipe may sound indulgent due to its bold flavors, but it actually has many health benefits. Green chillies are rich in Vitamin C and antioxidants, which support immunity. They also help boost metabolism. Besan is a great source of protein and fiber, making this sabzi not just tasty but also nourishing. Spices like ajwain and hing promote digestive health, especially helpful when eaten with heavier Indian meals.
A Quick and Versatile Recipe for Any Meal
One of the biggest advantages of this recipe is its versatility. It takes under 20 minutes to prepare and doesn’t require exotic ingredients. It’s an ideal last-minute addition to your lunch or dinner, especially when you’re bored of the regular sabzis. Stuffed Mirchi can also be served at festive meals or small gatherings as a unique, tangy side dish that stands out from the usual fare.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve always avoided green chillies thinking they’re too spicy, this recipe might just change your mind. With mild chillies and the right balance of spices, Stuffed Hari Mirchi becomes a flavor-packed yet balanced side dish that’s hard to resist. It’s proof that simple ingredients, when handled with care, can result in extraordinary taste. Try this Jain-style delight and let your meals get a little spicier — in the best way.
