What are bell peppers?

Bell peppers are considered a fruit. They come from the Capsicum annuum species which also includes many other peppers such as banana, jalapeno, and serrano peppers. Bell peppers are known for their sweet flavor and the variety of flavors which most commonly include red, yellow and orange.

Why are bell peppers considered a fruit?

Bell peppers are considered fruits due to the way that they’re grown. They develop from the flower of the plant and contain seeds. However, it’s not uncommon to hear them referred to as vegetables when used in culinary settings.

What are the nutritional benefits of bell peppers?

• Good source of vitamins and minerals: Bell peppers contain vitamins A and C, and a good amount of potassium, folic acid and fiber.
• Rich in antioxidants: Bell peppers contain antioxidants such as lutein, zeaxanthin and beta-carotene. The antioxidants help the body protect cells and reduce inflammation.
• Low in calories: Bell peppers are considered a low-calorie food. This makes them a good option for any healthy diet and aids in weight loss and weight maintenance.
• Good amounts of dietary fiber: Dietary fiber helps the body digest the foods we consume and promotes a healthy gut.
  
  

Why do bell peppers come in different colors?

Bell peppers come in different colors due to their ripeness. As bell peppers mature, they change from green, to yellow, to orange to red.

• Red bell peppers: Red bell peppers are mature bell peppers which are completely ripe when they are harvested. This allows them to have the sweetest flavor of the bell peppers while also offering more nutrients, namely Vitamins A and C.
• Orange and Yellow: Orange and yellow bell peppers are somewhere in the middle between sweetness of red bell peppers and the bitterness of green bell peppers. However, they typically tend to be on the sweeter side.
• Green Bell Peppers: Green bell peppers are the most unripe because they are harvested before they have matured. Of the bell peppers, they tend to have the most bitter flavor.

Where are bell peppers grown?

Bell peppers are grown in warm climates all over the world to include Central and South America, Europe, Asia, Africa, New Zealand, and Australia.

In North America, bell peppers are grown in both the U.S. and Mexico. U.S. bell peppers are mostly grown in California, Texas, Florida, and Georgia. And even though a large number of bell peppers are grown in the U.S., Mexico still exports a significant amount of bell peppers to the U.S. every year.

How long does it take for bell peppers to grow?

From the time they’re planted, bell peppers take approximately 60 to 90 days to mature. This timeframe can be affected by many factors including the climate and soil.

How should bell peppers be stored?

Once bell peppers are brought home from the grocery store, they should be stored in the refrigerated. Preferably in a drawer where they will stay good for one to two weeks.

How are bell peppers used in cooking?

Bell peppers can be found in many cuisines around the world, such as Mediterranean, Mexican, Asian, and American. The way they’re cooked has been influenced by many cultures over the years and as such, bell peppers are known to be a very versatile food. They are often roasted, grilled, stuffed, or sautéed. And they can even be eaten raw.

Are the seeds and white membranes inside bell peppers edible?

Yes, the seeds and membranes are edible (i.e. they won’t cause issues if they’re consumed). However, the seeds and membranes are commonly removed because they tend to have a bitter taste.