By: Judy Davie - The Food Coach
 When it comes to sweet, colourful, and versatile vegetables, capsicums are hard to beat. But have you met their slender cousin, the bullhorn capsicum? Known for their unique shape and mild sweetness, bullhorn capsicums are a wonderful addition to your kitchen. Let's dive into what makes them special, how they differ from regular capsicums, their health benefits, and some tips for enjoying them at their best.
What Are Bullhorn Capsicums?
Bullhorn capsicums, also called corno di toro (Italian for "horn of the bull"), are a type of sweet capsicum named for their elongated, curved shape resembling a bull's horn. They come in vibrant shades of red, yellow, orange, and green, adding a splash of colour to any dish. With thinner walls than standard capsicums, they're ideal for roasting, grilling, and stuffing.
How Are They Different from Regular Capsicums?
Here are some key differences:
Shape and Size Bullhorn capsicums are longer and more tapered, while regular capsicums (bell peppers) are short and blocky.
Texture Bullhorn capsicums have thinner, tender walls, making them quicker to cook.
Flavour Sweeter and less watery than bell peppers, bullhorn capsicums bring a subtle, fruity taste.
Uses Their shape makes them perfect for stuffing or slicing into strips for frying.
Health Benefits of Bullhorn Capsicums
Like their bell-shaped cousins, bullhorn capsicums pack a punch of nutrients:
Rich in Vitamin C Just 100g can provide over 100% of your daily vitamin C needs, supporting immunity and skin health.
Antioxidants High in beta-carotene and other antioxidants, they help fight oxidative stress and support eye health.
Low in Calories With very few calories and lots of fibre, they're ideal for weight management.
Hydrating They're 90% water, making them a refreshing addition to meals.
Digestibility
Some people find bullhorn capsicums more digestible than regular capsicums, largely due to their thinner, more tender skin. The skin of regular capsicums (bell peppers) can sometimes cause bloating or indigestion, particularly for individuals with sensitive digestive systems or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
Simple Recipes with Bullhorn Capsicums
Stuffed Bullhorn Capsicums
Cut bullhorn capsicums lengthwise and remove the seeds.
Fill with a mixture of cooked quinoa, feta cheese, chopped olives, and fresh herbs.
Roast at 180°C (350°F) for 20 minutes until tender and lightly browned.
Grilled Bullhorn Capsicums
Slice into long strips, toss with olive oil, salt, and a pinch of smoked paprika.
Grill on high heat until charred. Perfect as a side dish or in sandwiches.
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