Pav Bhaji, a mouthwatering Mumbai street food, is a popular dish that blends spicy mashed vegetables with buttery, toasted bread rolls. Known for its vibrant flavors and comforting texture, this dish has become a staple in Indian cuisine. Whether you’re indulging in it on a busy street corner in Mumbai or making it at home, Pav Bhaji never fails to satisfy. Here’s a simple recipe to recreate this delicious dish at home!
Ingredients:
For the Bhaji (vegetable mix):
- 2 cups of mixed vegetables (potatoes, carrots, peas, cauliflower, and beans)
- 2 tablespoons of butter
- 1 medium-sized onion, finely chopped
- 1 medium-sized tomato, finely chopped
- 2 green chilies, chopped (adjust according to spice preference)
- 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
- 1 tablespoon pav bhaji masala (a special spice blend)
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- Salt to taste
- Water as needed
- Fresh coriander leaves, chopped (for garnish)
- A squeeze of lemon juice (optional)
For the Pav (bread rolls):
- 8 pavs (Indian bread rolls)
- Butter for toasting
Method:
- Prepare the Vegetables:
- Boil the mixed vegetables until they are soft. You can pressure cook them for 2-3 whistles or boil them in a pan until tender. Drain any excess water and mash the vegetables coarsely using a masher or a blender. Set aside.
- Cook the Bhaji:
- Heat butter in a large pan or a flat griddle over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown.
- Add the ginger-garlic paste and green chilies. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the raw smell disappears.
- Add the chopped tomatoes and cook until they soften and become mushy.
- Now, add the pav bhaji masala, red chili powder, turmeric powder, and salt. Stir well and cook for 3-4 minutes until the spices are well incorporated.
- Add the mashed vegetables to the pan. Mix everything thoroughly, ensuring the vegetables blend with the spices. Add a little water if needed to achieve a smooth consistency.
- Let the mixture simmer for about 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Adjust the salt and spice levels as per your taste.
- Garnish the bhaji with chopped fresh coriander leaves and a squeeze of lemon juice for an extra burst of freshness.
- Prepare the Pavs:
- While the bhaji is cooking, heat a griddle or non-stick pan. Slice the pavs horizontally (but not all the way through) so they open like a sandwich.
- Add butter to the griddle and toast the pavs until they are golden and crispy on both sides.
- Serve:
- Serve the hot, buttery pavs with the flavorful bhaji. You can garnish the bhaji with a dollop of butter, more coriander, and a few slices of onions on the side for extra crunch.
- Squeeze some fresh lemon juice over the bhaji before eating, as it enhances the flavor.
Enjoy your Pav Bhaji
Pav Bhaji is best enjoyed with a chilled drink, such as a glass of buttermilk or a sweet lassi. Whether you’re having it as a snack, a light meal, or a street food-inspired dinner, this Mumbai favorite is sure to delight your taste buds and leave you craving more.
