Every time I go grocery shopping, one of the major staples on my shopping list is bell peppers. After I learned how to properly clean and cook them a few years ago, they became one of my mandatory staple vegetables that I try to keep in my kitchen all the time.
Many people are familiar with the green bell peppers, but may shy away from all the other colors because they are not as familiar with them. Many people may also gravitate toward the green bell peppers because they are usually the cheapest. But there are some benefits to trying the other colors too.
Green peppers are actually the least mature in terms of growth. I know, who knew plants needed to mature? But all bell peppers start out green, but as they remain on the vine, they change colors, from green, to red, to yellow, to orange.
So why should you care about the color of the pepper? Because the more colorful, the sweeter the flavor of the pepper and the more nutritious it becomes. Think about it; if you pick the pepper when it's green, it's still "immature" which means it's not getting the same amount of care and needs met as its more brightly colored peppers. There are more nutrients in the other peppers, and the flavor is sweeter. However, if you are looking for price, green bell peppers are usually the cheapest option.
Also, consider the recipe you are making. Bell peppers with four or more lobes (bumps at the bottom) are sweeter and can be eaten raw, whereas bell peppers with three lobes are a little more bitter and need to be cooked.
So yes, I know it is a lot to consider and remember between colors and lobes and raw and cooked, but it will make a difference in flavor in your dishes and your shopping selection. And bell peppers are in peak season right now in the spring, so it's a perfect time to start experimenting with bell peppers in your recipes. There are a variety of ways to prepare them. You can add them to a stir-fry, serve them raw with some hummus, stuff them with your favorite taco ingredients, dice them into a casserole...they are multiple ways to use them and even potentially hide the taste if you are new trying bell peppers. Visit your local grocery store and start picking some out to try.
We about the love of bell peppers - give them a try and spice up your recipes this spring!
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