The question, of whether the bell pepper or capsicum is the same, has always arisen in my mind.
For a long time till I grew up I did not know that there existed red, yellow, or orange capsicum. And do you know that there exist purple bell peppers also? During my childhood days, I even got confused between capsicum and bell pepper. I thought the green one is called capsicum and other colors are denoted by the name bell paper. But later I came to know that both are the same. I will share every important detail related to them here making it easier for my blogging family to understand.
Is Capsicum & Bell Pepper the same?
Yes, they both are the same but just called by different names. The scientific name for bell peppers is Capsicum annum but in America, it is known as red or green pepper or chilly pepper, or simply pepper, and the bigger soft one is called Bell pepper
Different types of Bell Peppers
1. Green bell peppers:
- Most common bell peppers Harvested before they have fully ripened
- Has slightly bitter taste
- Firmer in texture than other colored bell peppers
- good for cooking or using in salads.
2. Red bell peppers:
- fully ripe green bell peppers
- sweeter in flavor.
- softer than green bell peppers
- often used in roasting or grilling.
3. Yellow and orange bell peppers:
- Sweeter than green bell peppers but less than red bell peppers
- Milder than green bell peppers
- Good for roasting or using in salads.
4.Purple or black bell peppers:
- Less common than other colored bell peppers
- Slightly sweeter taste
- Good for salads or as a garnish
Which is better-Green or Red or Yellow ?
Red is the best one in terms of the nutritional value as it’s the most mature and ripened one. They remain on the tree for the longest time so has the maximum benefits. That is the reason they are expensive and less widely available
- It contains more beta-carotene and vitamin C than green bell peppers.
- It contains about twice as much vitamin C and eight times as much vitamin A as a green bell pepper of the same size.
Nutrition in Bell Peppers
Green or colored both are rich in nutritional value just in varying measurements.
Vitamins: Bell peppers are an excellent source of vitamin C, vitamin A, as well as vitamin K.
Minerals: Bell peppers are a good source of potassium.
Fiber: Bell peppers are a good source of fiber.
Antioxidants: Bell peppers contain antioxidants such as carotenoids.
Benefits of Bell Pepper or Capsicum
Important for immune function, skin health, and wound healing
Essential for blood clotting and bone health.
Good for heart healthand for muscle and nerve function.
Works well for digestive health and can help lower cholesterol levels
Protect the body against cell damage and reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as cancer and heart disease.
