Pav Bhaji is a popular Indian street food that originated in Mumbai. This Pav Bhaji Recipe offers a delightful blend of mashed vegetables cooked with butter and aromatic spices, served with soft, buttery pav buns. The bhaji is a spicy and flavorful vegetable mash that pairs perfectly with the toasted buns. This dish is not just street food but also a popular choice for dinners and gatherings. With its bold flavors and satisfying taste, Pav Bhaji is sure to become a family favorite.
Why is it Called “Pav Bhaji”?
The term Pav Bhaji refers to the two main components of the dish. Pav is the word for bread rolls, and Bhaji is a spiced vegetable curry. The dish was originally created as a quick, affordable meal for workers in Mumbai’s textile mills. Over time, it gained popularity across India and became a beloved street food. The combination of buttered bread and a rich, spiced vegetable mash makes Pav Bhaji a perfect meal for any time of the day.
How Should Pav Bhaji Taste?
A perfect Pav Bhaji should be a medley of bold flavors with a smooth, buttery texture. The bhaji has a savory taste with a slight tang from tomatoes and a mild heat from spices. It’s a combination of mashed potatoes, peas, and other vegetables infused with aromatic masalas. The pav buns, toasted with butter, provide a soft and fluffy base that complements the flavorful bhaji. Each bite delivers a satisfying burst of flavors, making it a truly irresistible dish.
How to Make it Super Yummy or Perfect?
To make the best Pav Bhaji, follow these tips:
- Use Fresh Vegetables: Fresh ingredients enhance the taste of the bhaji.
- Mash Vegetables Well: Mashing the vegetables evenly ensures a smooth texture.
- Butter is Key: Use butter generously to enhance the flavor.
- Toast the Pav Properly: Buttered, toasted pav buns make a big difference.
- Serve with Toppings: Top the bhaji with a dollop of butter, chopped onions, and a squeeze of lemon for the best experience.
Read More: Fluffy Puri Bhaji Recipe: A Traditional Indian Breakfast Delight
Pav Bhaji Recipe
Equipment
- Large pan or kadai
- Spatula
- Potato masher
- Tawa or griddle
Ingredients
For Bhaji:
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tsp cumin seeds
- 2 onions (finely chopped)
- 2 tomatoes (chopped)
- 1 green chili (chopped)
- 1/2 cup boiled peas
- 3 medium potatoes (boiled and mashed)
- 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
- 1 tsp Pav Bhaji masala
- 1/2 tsp red chili powder
- Salt to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh coriander leaves (chopped)
For Pav:
- 8 pav buns
- 2 tbsp butter
Instructions
Prepare the Bhaji:
- Heat butter in a pan and add cumin seeds.
- Add chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
- Add tomatoes and green chili, cook until soft.
- Mix in boiled peas and mashed potatoes.
- Add turmeric, pav bhaji masala, red chili powder, and salt.
- Mash everything well and cook for 10 minutes, adding water if needed.
- Garnish with coriander leaves.
Toast the Pav:
- Heat a tawa or griddle and add butter.
- Slice the pav buns and toast them until golden brown.
Serve Hot:
- Serve the bhaji with toasted pav, topped with butter, onions, and lemon wedges.
Notes
- Spice Level: Adjust spices according to your preference.
- Storage: Store leftover bhaji in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Variation: Add bell peppers or carrots for extra flavor.
Conclusion
This Pav Bhaji Recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves bold flavors and hearty meals. With its rich vegetable curry and buttery pav buns, it’s a dish that never fails to impress. Whether you’re hosting a party or looking for a satisfying dinner option, Pav Bhaji is the perfect choice. Serve it with a side of chopped onions, lemon wedges, and butter for an authentic street food experience at home.
