AUTHOR
SEASONAL SPOTLIGHT :
GET TO KNOW CAPSICUM
Fruit or vegetable ? Sweet or savoury ? Get to know this nutritious and versatile plant food with dietitian Caitlin Moran .
The capsicum ( also known as bell pepper ) is the fruit of the capsicum annuum plant from the nightshade family . They are native to the North and South Americas but are now grown all over the world . In Australia , capsicums are available most of the year . Capsicum is mainly grown in Queensland , South Australia and here in Victoria .
Flavour
Capsicums are from the same family as chillies , but unlike chillies , are not spicy at all . There are small differences in flavour between the different colours of capsicums , so it ’ s best to try them all and see which one you prefer . For example , red capsicums are sweeter than their green , unripe counterparts . Roast or grill them and the smoky , savoury notes develop , adding an amazing depth of flavour to meals .
Did you know ?
All capsicums begin as green and change colour as they ripen ! If not picked , a green capsicum may become yellow , orange or red depending on the variety . Green capsicums will last longer once picked and because they have spent less time on the vine , they tend to be the cheaper option of the different colours . Capsicums also come in a variety of other colours including white , purple and brown .
Nutrition
Capsicums are an excellent source of vitamins C , A and E , making them a great addition to a healthy diet . They also contain a number of different antioxidants that help to protect our bodies against ageing and disease .
Vitamin C
Vitamin C is necessary to keep our skin , bones , and connective tissue healthy and can help our bodies better absorb dietary iron .
} One red capsicum provides more than your daily need of vitamin C and twice as much as green capsicums .
} Adding capsicum to a stir fry or salad can help you absorb more iron from meat and other vegetables like spinach and broccoli .
Vitamin A
Vitamin A is essential for good vision , immune function , and reproduction .
} The form of vitamin A found in orange and red capsicums is known as beta carotene , which is what gives the capsicums their bright colour . Cooking and serving } Serve raw in salads , salsas or as crudités for with dip } Capsicum makes a great pizza topping and adds a lovely crunch to salad wraps } Roast capsicums under the grill or on the barbeque and use in dips or sauces } Sauté with plenty of Extra Virgin Olive Oil as the base of pasta sauce , paella or chili con carne . } Check out Georgina ’ s risoni recipe starring capsicum on page 17 Whether you call them a vegetable or a fruit , and however you like to eat them , capsicum are a versatile and nutritious in-season option !
YMCA HEALTHY LIVING MAGAZINE 5