Pav Bhaji Recipe

How to make Authentic Pav Bhaji Recipe

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Pav Bhaji is a quintessential Mumbai street food that has won hearts across India and beyond. This rich, flavorful dish combines a spicy vegetable mash (bhaji) with butter-toasted bread rolls (pav).

Perfect for gatherings or a cozy family dinner, this recipe will guide you in recreating this beloved dish at home.

Pav Bhaji Recipe Ingredients:

For the Bhaji (Vegetable Mash):

  • 3 medium potatoes, boiled and mashed
  • 1 cup cauliflower florets, boiled and mashed
  • 1 cup green peas, boiled
  • 1 medium green bell pepper, finely chopped
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 2 medium tomatoes, finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon ginger-garlic paste
  • 2 green chilies, finely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons pav bhaji masala (store-bought or homemade)
  • ½ teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 1 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)
  • Salt to taste
  • 3 tablespoons butter
  • 2 tablespoons oil
  • ½ cup water (adjust for consistency)
  • Fresh coriander leaves, chopped (for garnish)
  • Lemon wedges (for serving)

For the Pav (Bread Rolls):

  • 8 pav buns (dinner rolls or similar soft bread)
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • ½ teaspoon pav bhaji masala (optional)

Pav Bhaji Recipe Step-by-Step Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Bhaji

  1. Heat oil and 2 tablespoons of butter in a large pan or skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add the chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
  3. Stir in the ginger-garlic paste and green chilies. Cook for 1-2 minutes until aromatic.
  4. Add the chopped tomatoes and cook until they turn soft and mushy.
  5. Mix in the bell pepper and cook for another 2-3 minutes.
  6. Add the pav bhaji masala, turmeric powder, red chili powder, and salt. Stir well to combine the spices.
  7. Add the boiled and mashed potatoes, cauliflower, and green peas. Mix thoroughly.
  8. Pour in water gradually and mash the mixture using a potato masher or the back of a spoon. Continue cooking and mashing until you achieve a smooth, thick consistency.
  • Adjust the seasoning and consistency by adding more water or spices if needed.
  • Stir in a tablespoon of butter and garnish with fresh coriander leaves. Keep the bhaji warm.

    • Step 2: Toast the Pav

    1. Heat a flat pan or griddle on medium heat.
    2. Spread butter evenly over the pan. Sprinkle a little pav bhaji masala on the butter for added flavor (optional).
    3. Slice the pav buns horizontally and place them on the pan.
    4. Toast the buns on both sides until golden brown and slightly crisp.

    Step 3: Serve

    1. Serve the hot bhaji in a bowl, garnished with a dollop of butter and a sprinkle of chopped coriander.
    2. Place the toasted pav buns on the side.
    3. Accompany the dish with lemon wedges and finely chopped onions for extra zing.

    Tips for Perfect Pav Bhaji Recipe

    • Use fresh vegetables for the best flavor.
    • Adjust the spice level according to your preference by increasing or reducing the chilies and chili powder.
    • For a richer taste, use a generous amount of butter while cooking and serving.

    Conclusion

    Pav Bhaji is more than just a dish—it’s an experience that brings people together. With its blend of robust flavors and buttery goodness, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to prepare. Serve it hot, and watch as your loved ones devour this irresistible street food classic. Enjoy!