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What is a Green Pepper?

Jessica Ellis
Jessica Ellis
Jessica Ellis
Jessica Ellis

A green pepper, also called a bell pepper, is a slightly sweet fruit used in many cuisines from different regions. Unlike its spicy cousins, the green pepper has little to no perceptible heat and may be safely enjoyed by those who dislike spicy foods. Green peppers are delicious in a variety of recipes, but care must be taken when purchasing to ensure the best flavor.

Green peppers are an confusing vegetable, as it is difficult to tell if available specimens are ripe. Other types of bell pepper, such as red, yellow, and orange peppers, turn green before they ripen. Frequently, the green peppers available in the grocery store are actually unripe yellow or red peppers, and are far less sweet and more bitter. Additionally, there are green peppers that stay green when ripe, making the choice even more confusing. It may be advisable to grow peppers at home or purchase them directly from farmers if the taste difference is a problem.

Green peppers, also known as bell peppers, are available at most grocery stores.
Green peppers, also known as bell peppers, are available at most grocery stores.

Green pepper plants are easily found at nurseries and garden supply stores, and grow well throughout temperate climates. Peppers can be grown from seeds or small plants. If grown from seeds, peppers should be planted at the end of winter or in early spring. Many experts recommend letting seeds mature indoors and transferring to outdoor beds or containers after two or three months. Peppers will produce fruit throughout the year depending on the general climate.

Many green peppers that people see in grocery stores are actually red or yellow peppers that haven't ripened yet.
Many green peppers that people see in grocery stores are actually red or yellow peppers that haven't ripened yet.

Having obtained a supply of green peppers, the question becomes how best to prepare them. Some people enjoy eating green peppers raw, as they are a crunchy and sweet addition to salads and crudite platters. Recipes that use green pepper often fit into Mediterranean and South American cuisine.

A stuffed green pepper is a beautiful and delicious treat that can be made with a variety of fillings. To make, slice the top off a green pepper and reserve. Hollow out the pepper, carefully removing all seeds. Fill pepper with cheese, ground beef, rice, beans, or other vegetables and replace the top. The pepper can then be baked in the oven, or dipped in batter and deep fried. Stuffed peppers can be customized to match any cuisine depending on the filling; Czech, Mexican, Italian, and even Israeli versions are all easily created.

Sliced green peppers can be added to salads.
Sliced green peppers can be added to salads.

Green peppers are also included in pickling mixes for a tangy, flavorful treat. To make green pepper pickles, combine peppers, onions and a hot pepper in a sterilized jar. In a stock pot, boil cider vinegar, salt, and any combination of pickling spices, such as dill, coriander, fennel seeds, and peppercorns. Pour vinegar mixture into pickle jar and return to heat in a water-filled pot. After cooking, cool the mixture and store carefully.

Jessica Ellis
Jessica Ellis

With a B.A. in theater from UCLA and a graduate degree in screenwriting from the American Film Institute, Jessica is passionate about drama and film. She has many other interests, and enjoys learning and writing about a wide range of topics in her role as a DelightedCooking writer.

Learn more...
Jessica Ellis
Jessica Ellis

With a B.A. in theater from UCLA and a graduate degree in screenwriting from the American Film Institute, Jessica is passionate about drama and film. She has many other interests, and enjoys learning and writing about a wide range of topics in her role as a DelightedCooking writer.

Learn more...

Discussion Comments

Ocelot60

Green bell peppers are tasty, but if your prefer a sweet pepper, you should choose the orange variety. They have a much milder, sweeter flavor than the green ones.

Raynbow

Green bell peppers make great additions to any vegetable tray that is served at a party or special occasion. Simply cut them into strips and place them on a serving tray with other vegetables. A dip such as ranch or dill will go perfectly with them.

Your guests will appreciate the flavor and color that the green bell peppers will add to this popular snack or appetizer.

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    • Green peppers, also known as bell peppers, are available at most grocery stores.
      By: JJAVA
      Green peppers, also known as bell peppers, are available at most grocery stores.
    • Many green peppers that people see in grocery stores are actually red or yellow peppers that haven't ripened yet.
      By: DLeonis
      Many green peppers that people see in grocery stores are actually red or yellow peppers that haven't ripened yet.
    • Sliced green peppers can be added to salads.
      By: Konstantin Yuganov
      Sliced green peppers can be added to salads.
    • Yellow peppers turn green prior to ripening.
      By: Boggy
      Yellow peppers turn green prior to ripening.