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
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.
Popular Yellow Bell Pepper Recipes
- Stuffed Yellow Bell Peppers
- Roasted Yellow Bell Pepper Soup
- Yellow Bell Pepper and Mango Salsa
Yellow Bell Pepper Nutritional Information (100g)
- fat: 0.21 g
- fiber: 0.9 g
- sugar: 0 g
- protein: 1 g
- calories: 27 kcal
- carbohydrates: 6.3 g
Flavor Combinations
Yellow bell peppers pair well with a variety of flavors and ingredients. They complement onions, garlic, and tomatoes, making them a staple in Mediterranean dishes. Herbs such as basil, oregano, and thyme enhance their sweetness. For proteins, they work well with chicken, beef, and seafood. Yellow bell peppers also pair beautifully with grains like quinoa and rice, and their sweetness can be balanced with acidic ingredients like balsamic vinegar or citrus juices.
Allergen Information
Bell pepper allergies are rare but can manifest in symptoms such as itching, hives, or swelling. Individuals with a known allergy to bell peppers should avoid them in all forms, including cooked, raw, and powdered.
