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Dictionary Page - Bell Pepper

Bell Pepper

Part of Speech

Noun

Pronunciation

/bɛl ˈpɛpər/

Definitions

  1. A large, bell-shaped fruit of the plant Capsicum annuum, typically green, yellow, red, or orange in color, commonly used in cooking.
  2. A variety of pepper, known for its mild flavor and crisp texture, often used in salads, stir-fries, and other dishes.

Usage Examples

  • "She added chopped bell pepper to the salad for a bit of color and crunch."
  • "Bell peppers are a versatile ingredient in many Mediterranean dishes."

Etymology

The term "bell pepper" derives from the shape of the fruit, which resembles a bell, and the word "pepper" due to its mild flavor. The name was likely given to differentiate it from the spicier varieties of pepper. Bell peppers are part of the Capsicum species, and their cultivation dates back to Central and South America, where they were first domesticated.

Synonyms

  • Sweet pepper
  • Capsicum
  • Bell chili

Antonyms

  • Hot pepper
  • Chili pepper
  • Cayenne pepper

Translations

Language Translation Pronunciation
Spanish Pimiento /piˈmjento/
French Poivron /pwa.vʁɔ̃/
German Paprika /ˈpaːpʁɪka/
Hindi शिमला मिर्च (Shimla Mirch) /ʃɪmlaː mɪɾʧ/
Tamil பப்பரிக்கா (Papparikka) /ˈpɑːpɾɪkkɑː/

Regional Pronunciation Variations

  • American English: /bɛl ˈpɛpər/
  • British English: /bɛl ˈpɛpə/

Historical Usage

Bell peppers are native to Central and South America and were domesticated by indigenous peoples long before the arrival of Europeans. After the Columbian Exchange, bell peppers were introduced to Europe and later to the rest of the world. Today, they are a staple in many cuisines around the globe. Historically, bell peppers were used primarily as a food source due to their ease of cultivation and their mild flavor compared to other varieties of peppers.

Cultural Nuances

In many cultures, bell peppers are used as a symbol of vitality and health due to their high content of vitamins, particularly vitamin C. In Mediterranean cuisine, they are commonly used in a variety of salads, sauces, and casseroles. In South Asia, bell peppers are often featured in vegetable curries and stir-fries. While bell peppers are grown worldwide, their significance and use can vary based on local culinary traditions.

More Information

Bell peppers are a versatile and nutritious vegetable that can be consumed both raw and cooked. They are low in calories but high in vitamins and antioxidants, making them a healthy addition to various dishes. They are often used in salads, stir-fries, and grilled vegetable medleys. In addition to their culinary uses, bell peppers have also found applications in various folk remedies, particularly in regions where they are cultivated. The different colors of bell peppers (green, yellow, red, orange) represent different stages of ripeness, with red bell peppers being the ripest and most nutrient-dense. Bell peppers are also widely grown in temperate regions around the world, with varying cultivation methods and harvesting times depending on the local climate.

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