Bell peppers, or Capsicum as we like to refer to them in Australia, are a popular vegetable that can be used in a variety of dishes. Dried and ground Capsicum can be used in dishes such as stews, soups, sauces, and dips. It can also be used in meat, poultry, and fish dishes, adding a flavourful kick to dishes, and burst of colour to rice and pasta dishes. The dried form is a great option for cooking, as it is easy to store and has a long shelf life. We have both Red and Green Ground Capsicum available in a few sizes: 100g, 200g and a huge 500g!

Ground dried bell pepper is a versatile spice that adds a sweet, slightly smoky flavour to dishes. Here are some recipe ideas to incorporate it:

1. Bell Pepper Chicken Rub

Ingredients:

• 2 tbsp ground dried bell pepper
• 1 tbsp smoked paprika
• 1 tbsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried thyme

Instructions:

1. Mix all the spices together in a bowl.
2. Rub the mixture over chicken breasts or thighs.
3. Grill, bake, or pan-fry the chicken until fully cooked.

2. Bell Pepper Pasta Sauce

Ingredients:

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 tbsp ground dried bell pepper
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil for garnish

Instructions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic, and sauté until translucent.
3. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, ground dried bell pepper, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper.
4. Simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Serve over cooked pasta and garnish with fresh basil.

3. Bell Pepper Hummus

Ingredients:

• 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 2 tbsp tahini
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 clove garlic
• 1 tbsp ground dried bell pepper
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. Combine all ingredients in a food processor.
2. Blend until smooth, adding more olive oil or water if needed for desired consistency.
3. Serve with pita bread or vegetable sticks.

4. Bell Pepper Seasoned Roasted Vegetables

Ingredients:

• 1 lb mixed vegetables (e.g., bell peppers, zucchini, carrots, broccoli)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp ground dried bell pepper
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss the vegetables with olive oil, ground dried bell pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Spread the vegetables on a baking sheet.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and slightly caramelized.

5. Bell Pepper Infused Butter

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 tbsp ground dried bell pepper
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp dried parsley
• Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, mix the softened butter with ground dried bell pepper, garlic powder, dried parsley, and salt.
2. Transfer the mixture to a piece of parchment paper and shape it into a log.
3. Refrigerate until firm.
4. Use the butter to enhance the flavour of grilled meats, steamed vegetables, or toasted bread.

These recipes highlight the unique flavour of ground dried bell pepper and can be easily adapted to suit your taste preferences. Enjoy!