What is Capsicum?
Capsicum is a genus of flowering plants in the nightshade family Solanaceae. It’s known for its varied species that produce the bell peppers and chili peppers used in cooking worldwide. These plants are characterized by their fruit, which can range from sweet to very spicy, depending on the variety.
Mirchi or Chili and Its Relation to Capsicum
“Mirchi” is a term used in various languages, including Hindi and Urdu, to refer to chili peppers.
Chili peppers (or chilies) are the fruits of plants from the genus Capsicum, which are members of the nightshade family, Solanaceae.
Chilies are essentially a type of capsicum, but they are usually the spicier varieties.
The term “chili pepper” encompasses a wide range of spicy capsicum fruits, which are integral to many cuisines around the world for their heat and flavor.
Types of Capsicum: Red, Green, Yellow Colors
Capsicum varieties are diverse, with different shapes, sizes, colors, and flavors. The most commonly known types are bell peppers. They come in several colors, primarily red, green, and yellow, each with its unique taste profile:
1. Green Capsicum: These are unripe peppers and have a slightly bitter, more grassy flavor compared to their ripe counterparts. They are crunchier and less sweet.
2. Red Capsicum: Red peppers are fully ripe and tend to be sweeter and juicier than green capsicums. They have a milder, more fruity flavor and contain higher levels of vitamins and antioxidants.
3. Yellow Capsicum: Yellow or sometimes orange capsicums are also ripe, with a flavor that is milder and sweeter than green capsicums but less sweet than red ones. They are known for their bright, vibrant color and crisp texture.
Is Capsicum a Fruit?
Scientifically speaking, capsicum is classified as a fruit, not a vegetable. This classification is based on botanical criteria. In botanical terms, a fruit is the seed-bearing structure in flowering plants formed from the ovary after flowering.
Capsicums fit this definition because they contain seeds and develop from the flower’s ovary.
In culinary contexts, however, capsicums (especially the less sweet, green varieties) are often used as vegetables, similar to how tomatoes (also botanically fruits) are generally treated in cooking.
The culinary classification is more about flavor profile and usage in dishes rather than botanical criteria.
