Grocery
Sweet Orange Bell Pepper
What it is
This is a vibrant orange bell pepper, a popular variety of the Capsicum annuum species. It is known for its sweet flavor and crisp texture. Bell peppers are botanically fruits but are commonly used as vegetables in cooking. This particular pepper offers a mild taste without any heat, making it versatile for many dishes. Its bright color adds visual appeal to any meal.
How people cook with it
Orange bell peppers are a fantastic addition to both raw and cooked dishes. They can be enjoyed in a variety of culinary applications.
- Sliced raw in salads
- Stir-fried with other vegetables
- Roasted until tender
- Stuffed with grains and meats
To prepare, simply wash the pepper and remove the stem, seeds, and white pith. You can then slice it into strips for snacking or adding to salads and stir-fries. For roasting, cut it into large pieces and toss with oil, salt, and pepper before baking. When stuffing, halve the pepper and fill with your desired mixture before baking until the pepper is soft and the filling is cooked through. Its sweetness intensifies when cooked.
How it differs from similar foods
Compared to green bell peppers, orange bell peppers are typically sweeter and have a softer texture when raw. They also contain more beta-carotene. Red bell peppers are generally the sweetest, while yellow ones fall somewhere in between.
Who it is for
Home cooks and professional chefs alike appreciate orange bell peppers for their flavor and color.
How to keep the rest
To keep the rest of your orange bell pepper fresh, store it unwashed in the crisper drawer of your refrigerator. It should remain firm and flavorful for about a week when stored properly. Avoid washing until you are ready to use it.