Pav Bhaji is a popular Indian street food that combines a spicy vegetable mash with soft buttered bread rolls. Originating from Mumbai, this dish has become a beloved favorite across the country. The use of Pav Bhaji masala gives this dish its distinctive and irresistible flavor. Let’s dive into the recipe and discover how to make this delectable dish at home!

Ingredients

For the Bhaji (Vegetable Mash):

• Potatoes: 3 medium, peeled and cubed
• Cauliflower: 1 cup, chopped
• Green Peas: 1/2 cup
• Carrots: 1/2 cup, chopped
• Bell Pepper (Capsicum): 1, chopped
• Tomatoes: 3 large, finely chopped
• Onion: 2 medium, finely chopped
• Green Chilies: 2, finely chopped
• Ginger-Garlic Paste: 1 tablespoon
• Pav Bhaji Masala: 2 tablespoons
• Turmeric Powder: 1/2 teaspoon
• Red Chili Powder: 1 teaspoon
• Salt: To taste
• Butter: 2-3 tablespoons
• Oil: 2 tablespoons
• Fresh Coriander Leaves: A handful, chopped
• Lemon: 1, cut into wedges

For the Pav (Bread Rolls):

• Pav (Dinner Rolls): 8
• Butter: As needed
• Pav Bhaji Masala: 1/2 teaspoon (optional)

Instructions

Preparing the Bhaji:

1. Boil the Vegetables: In a large pot, add the cubed potatoes, chopped cauliflower, green peas, and chopped carrots. Add enough water to cover the vegetables and bring to a boil. Cook until the vegetables are tender. Drain and set aside.

2. Heat Oil and Butter: In a large pan or kadai, heat 2 tablespoons of oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat.

3. Sauté Onions: Add the finely chopped onions and sauté until they turn translucent and start to brown.

4. Add Green Chilies and Ginger-Garlic Paste: Stir in the finely chopped green chilies and ginger-garlic paste. Sauté for a few minutes until the raw smell disappears.

5. Add Tomatoes and Bell Pepper: Add the finely chopped tomatoes and chopped bell pepper to the pan. Cook until the tomatoes turn soft and mushy.

6. Add Spices: Add turmeric powder, red chili powder, and 2 tablespoons of Pav Bhaji masala. Mix well and cook for a couple of minutes until the spices are well blended.

7. Mash the Vegetables: Add the boiled vegetables to the pan. Use a potato masher to mash the vegetables thoroughly, combining them with the spice mixture.

8. Adjust Consistency: Add water as needed to achieve the desired consistency. The bhaji should be thick but not too dry. Continue to cook and mash for another 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.

9. Season and Garnish: Add salt to taste and mix well. Stir in 1-2 tablespoons of butter for a rich flavor. Garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves.

Preparing the Pav:

10. Butter the Pav: Slice the pav (dinner rolls) horizontally. Heat a tawa or griddle over medium heat. Add a generous amount of butter and sprinkle a pinch of Pav Bhaji masala (optional) on the tawa.

11. Toast the Pav: Place the pav slices on the tawa, cut side down. Toast until they are golden brown and crispy. Flip and toast the other side briefly.

Serving:

12. Serve Hot: Serve the hot bhaji in a bowl, topped with a dollop of butter and garnished with coriander leaves. Place the toasted pav on the side. Accompany with lemon wedges and finely chopped onions.

Tips for the Perfect Pav Bhaji:

• Vegetable Choice: You can add other vegetables like beans or beetroot for added nutrition and flavor.
• Spice Levels: Adjust the amount of Pav Bhaji masala and chili powder according to your heat preference.
• Consistency: If the bhaji becomes too thick, add a little water and simmer to adjust the consistency.

Conclusion:

Pav Bhaji is a delightful and hearty dish that brings the vibrant flavors of Indian street food to your kitchen. This recipe, with its rich and spicy bhaji and perfectly toasted pav, is sure to become a favorite in your home. Enjoy making and savoring this delicious meal with family and friends!