Pav Bhaji is a popular Indian street food that originated in Mumbai. It consists of a spicy vegetable mash (bhaji) served with buttered bread rolls (pav). This delicious dish is a favorite at parties, celebrations, or simply as a hearty meal. Its rich flavors and buttery goodness make it irresistible!
Ingredients
For the Bhaji (Vegetable Mash):
- 4 large potatoes (boiled and mashed)
- 1 cup cauliflower (finely chopped)
- 1 cup green peas
- 1 large onion (finely chopped)
- 2 tomatoes (finely chopped)
- 1 green bell pepper (finely chopped)
- 2 tablespoons ginger-garlic paste
- 2-3 green chilies (finely chopped)
- 2 tablespoons Pav Bhaji masala
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder
- ½ teaspoon turmeric powder
- Salt to taste
- 3-4 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon oil
- Fresh coriander leaves (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
For the Pav (Bread Rolls):
- 8 pav buns
- 2-3 tablespoons butter
- ½ teaspoon Pav Bhaji masala (optional)
Directions
- Prepare the Bhaji:
- Heat oil and 2 tablespoons of butter in a large pan. Add the chopped onions and sauté until translucent.
- Add the ginger-garlic paste and green chilies. Cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add the chopped tomatoes and cook until they soften and release oil.
- Now, add the chopped cauliflower, green peas, and bell pepper. Stir and cook for 5-6 minutes.
- Add the mashed potatoes, pav bhaji masala, red chili powder, turmeric, and salt. Mix well.
- Use a potato masher or the back of a spoon to mash the vegetables together, creating a thick, smooth bhaji.
- Adjust the consistency by adding a little water, if necessary, and let the bhaji simmer on low heat for 10 minutes.
- Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and a generous knob of butter.
- Prepare the Pav:
- Heat a tawa or pan on medium heat.
- Slice the pav buns horizontally and spread butter on both sides. Sprinkle some Pav Bhaji masala for extra flavor (optional).
- Toast the pav until golden brown and crispy on both sides.
- Serve:
- Serve the hot bhaji with buttered pav, lemon wedges, and chopped onions on the side. You can garnish the bhaji with more butter for a rich flavor.
Enjoy your Pav Bhaji!