Capsicum substitutes
Capsicum substitutes — 3 options, ranked, with the exact amount
Use Bell peppers
Same amount as the capsicum
Similar pepper with different name.
The best substitutes for capsicum are bell peppers, poblano peppers, or sweet peppers, depending on the use.
- Verdict —
- Works
- Best for —
- cooking
Updated 26 Jul 2026 · no sponsored swaps
Every option, one card
Ranked| # | Substitute | Instead of capsicum | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Bell pepperscooking | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 2 | Poblano pepperscooking | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 3 | Sweet pepperscooking | Same amountWorks | Works |
Bell peppers
similar taste and texture
Similar pepper with different name.
- Best for
- cooking, salads, stir-fries, general use
Different name, similar flavor - same ingredient.
Poblano peppers
similar taste and texture
Similar pepper with different heat level.
- Best for
- cooking, stuffed peppers, Mexican dishes, roasting
Different heat level, similar flavor - more mild.
Sweet peppers
similar taste and texture
Similar pepper with different variety.
- Best for
- cooking, salads, stir-fries, general use
Different variety, similar flavor - more generic.
Questions
3 questionsCan I use bell peppers instead of capsicum?
Yes, bell peppers are a good substitute for capsicum, but they have different names and are the same ingredient.
What's the difference between capsicum and poblano peppers?
Capsicum is more sweet and has different heat level, while poblano peppers are more mild and have a similar flavor.
Can I use capsicum in baking?
Yes, capsicum can be used in baking, especially in savory breads and pastries.
Tips for substituting capsicum
4 tips- Capsicum is essential for many international cuisines
- It's commonly used in stir-fries, salads, and stuffed dishes
- Capsicum has a sweet, mild flavor with no heat
- It pairs well with onions, garlic, and herbs