Yellow Bell Pepper

Yellow Bell Pepper is a vibrant, sweet variety of Capsicum annuum that is prized for its crisp texture and mild, almost fruity flavor. It is available throughout the year, with peak season in the summer months. Yellow bell peppers are a versatile ingredient, commonly used both raw and cooked in salads, stir-fries, roasts, and stuffed dishes. They are a staple in Mediterranean cuisine and are also widely used in North American and Asian dishes for their color and sweetness.

Yellow Bell Pepper Synonyms

Yellow Capsicum
Yellow Sweet Pepper

Different Forms/Types of Yellow Bell Pepper

Dried

Less common, but can be found in specialty stores, dried yellow bell peppers can be rehydrated or used in spice blends.

Fresh

Yellow bell peppers are available fresh, offering a sweet, almost fruity flavor and a crisp texture, ideal for salads, grilling, and stuffing.

Frozen

Chopped or whole yellow bell peppers that are blanched and frozen, suitable for stir-fries or dishes where the texture is less critical.

Roasted

Available in jars or freshly prepared, roasted yellow bell peppers have a rich, sweet, and slightly smoky flavor, perfect for sauces, sandwiches, and as a garnish.

How to Choose Yellow Bell Pepper

Select fresh yellow bell peppers that have a vibrant yellow color, firm skin, and are heavy for their size. The stem should be green and intact, and the pepper should be free of soft spots, wrinkles, or blemishes. For roasted, jarred, or canned peppers, choose brands that do not have added sugars or preservatives for the most natural flavor.

Cooking/Prep Tips for Yellow Bell Pepper

Yellow Bell Pepper is a versatile ingredient that can add sweetness and color to a variety of dishes. When cooking with yellow bell peppers, it's important to consider their texture and flavor. Unlike green bell peppers, yellow ones are sweeter and less bitter, making them ideal for raw applications or quick cooking methods that retain their vibrant color and crisp texture. For intermediate and expert home cooks, it's useful to note that the skin of yellow bell peppers can be removed if desired, especially for a smoother texture in sauces or soups. This can be done by charring the peppers over an open flame or roasting in the oven, then placing them in a bowl covered with plastic wrap to steam, making the skin easier to peel off.

Shelf Life of Yellow Bell Pepper

Store fresh yellow bell peppers in the vegetable crisper of your refrigerator, where they can stay fresh for about 1-2 weeks. Roasted yellow bell peppers in jars should be kept in the fridge once opened and used within 5-7 days. Frozen yellow bell peppers should be kept in the freezer and used within 6 months for best quality. Dried yellow bell peppers should be stored in a cool, dry place in an airtight container, away from light.

Recommended Brands for Yellow Bell Pepper

frozen yellow bell peppers: Birds Eye

roasted yellow bell peppers: Mezzetta

Cooking Techniques for Yellow Bell Pepper

Grilling: Grilling imparts a smoky flavor to yellow bell peppers. Slice them into large pieces, brush with oil, and grill over medium-high heat until charred and tender, about 3-4 minutes per side.

Roasting: Roasting yellow bell peppers brings out their natural sweetness and softens their texture. You can roast them whole, turning occasionally, in a 450°F (232°C) oven until the skin blisters and chars, about 25-30 minutes. After roasting, let them steam as mentioned, then peel and use in your recipe.

Sautéing: For a quick method that maintains some crunch, sauté sliced or diced yellow bell peppers in oil over medium-high heat until they are tender-crisp, about 5-7 minutes. This method is great for stir-fries or fajitas.