Capsicum Varieties: Green, Yellow, and Red Explained

Kathmandu. Capsicum (Bhedhekhursani) is now widely used in Nepali kitchens. In the market, it is easily found mainly in three colors: green, yellow, and red. Although they look different from the outside, these vegetables are actually from the same plant. However, there are differences in their ripeness, taste, and nutrition. Let's understand this in detail.

Green Capsicum

Green capsicum is harvested before it is fully ripe.

• Taste: Slightly bitter and pungent.
• Texture: Very crunchy.

Benefits

• Beneficial for those who want to lose weight as it is low in calories.
• Rich in fiber, it improves the digestive system.
• Good source of Vitamin C and K.
• Good for controlling blood sugar.

Suitable for which dishes:

Vegetables, Chinese stir fry.

Yellow Capsicum

Yellow capsicum is more ripe than green but less ripe than red.

• Taste: Slightly sweet and soft.
• Texture: Less bitter and a bit more juicy.

Benefits

• Rich in Vitamin C and A.
• Very good for eye health.
• Strengthens immunity.
• Helps in bringing glow to the skin.

Suitable for which dishes:

Salads, pasta, soup, and light vegetables.

Red Capsicum

Red capsicum is fully ripe.

• Taste: Sweetest.
• Texture: Softest and juiciest.

Benefits

• Contains the most antioxidants.
• High in Vitamin A and C.
• Very beneficial for skin and hair.
• Helps maintain good heart health.
• Reduces swelling and signs of aging in the body.

Suitable for which dishes:

Salads, pasta, pizza, sauces, and grilled dishes.

The main difference between these three

• Ripeness level: Green < Yellow < Red
• Taste: Bitter → Slightly sweet → Very sweet
• Nutrition: Red has the most antioxidants.
• Price: Green is cheaper, while red is the most expensive.

Which capsicum is best?

All three are beneficial from a health perspective:

• For weight loss and diabetes: Green capsicum.
• For immunity and eyes: Yellow capsicum.
• For skin, heart, and anti-aging: Red capsicum.

Conclusion

Green, yellow, and red capsicum differ not only in color but also in taste and nutrition.

To fully benefit health as well as enhance taste, including all three colors of capsicum in your diet is the best approach.