Pav Bhaji recipe

Pav Bhaji recipe is one of the most loved Indian street foods, cherished for its rich flavors and comforting texture. It’s a wholesome meal that brings together a medley of vegetables, spices, and buttery pav buns to create a dish that’s perfect for family dinners, festive gatherings, or even a quick weekend treat. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned cook, this guide will help you master the art of making authentic pav bhaji at home.

What is Pav Bhaji?

Pav Bhaji is more than just a dish; it’s an experience. Originating from the busy streets of Mumbai in the 1850s, it was initially created as a quick and nutritious meal for mill workers. Over time, it gained immense popularity and became a staple street food across India. “Pav” refers to the soft bread rolls, and “Bhaji” is a thick, spiced vegetable curry. The dish is known for its versatility, as you can tweak the recipe to suit your taste and dietary preferences.

Ingredients for Pav Bhaji Recipe

• Potatoes: 3 medium, boiled and mashed (adds creaminess)
• Cauliflower: 1 cup, finely chopped (for texture)
• Peas: ½ cup (sweetness)
• Carrots: 2, diced (natural sweetness and color)
• Capsicum (Green Bell Pepper): 1, finely chopped (for aroma)
• Onions: 2 medium, finely chopped (adds depth of flavor)
• Tomatoes: 3 large, pureed (base of the curry)
• Ginger-Garlic Paste: 1 tbsp (essential for the flavor profile)
• Butter: 4 tbsp (for richness)
• Oil: 2 tbsp (to balance butter)
• Pav Bhaji Masala: 2 tbsp (key spice blend)
• Kashmiri Red Chili Powder: 1 tsp (for color)
• Turmeric Powder: ½ tsp (adds color and health benefits)
• Salt: As per taste
• Water: As needed (to adjust consistency)

For the Pav

• Pav Buns: 6-8 (soft and fresh)
• Butter: As needed (to toast buns)
• Chopped Coriander: For garnish
• Chopped Onions and Lemon Wedges: For serving

Step-by-Step Pav Bhaji Recipe

1. Boil and Mash Vegetables

1. Boil potatoes, cauliflower, peas, and carrots in a pressure cooker until soft.
2. Drain and mash the vegetables with a masher, ensuring there are no lumps. Set aside.

2. Prepare the Bhaji

1. Heat 2 tbsp of oil and 2 tbsp of butter in a large pan or wok over medium heat.
2. Add chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
3. Stir in the ginger-garlic paste and cook for about a minute until fragrant.
4. Add the pureed tomatoes and cook until the oil separates from the mixture. This step is crucial for a rich base.
5. Mix in the pav bhaji masala, red chili powder, turmeric, and salt. Stir well to combine.
6. Add the mashed vegetables to the pan and mix thoroughly with the spice mixture.
7. Use a masher to blend everything together on low heat.
8. Add water to adjust the consistency and simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally.
9. Finish with 2 tbsp of butter and garnish with chopped coriander.

3. Toast the Pav

1. Slice the pav buns horizontally.
2. Heat a flat pan and melt some butter.
3. Place the buns on the pan, cut side down, and toast until golden brown and crisp.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the hot and flavorful bhaji in a bowl, topped with a dollop of butter. Arrange the toasted pav buns on the side. Accompany it with chopped onions, a wedge of lemon, and a handful of coriander leaves. For a more authentic street-style feel, serve on a large tawa or platter.

Nutrition Facts of Pav Bhaji

Here’s the approximate nutritional breakdown per serving (1 plate with 2 pav buns and bhaji):

• Calories: 400-450
• Carbohydrates: 55g (mainly from potatoes and buns)
• Proteins: 10g (from peas and other vegetables)
• Fats: 18g (butter and oil contribute to this)
• Fiber: 8g (high due to the variety of vegetables)
• Vitamins: Rich in Vitamin A (carrots), Vitamin C (capsicum), and folate (peas)
• Minerals: Contains potassium, magnesium, and iron

Tips for the Best Pav Bhaji

1. Balance the Butter: While butter enhances the flavor, you can adjust the quantity for a healthier version.
2. Spices Matter: Invest in good-quality pav bhaji masala for authentic taste.
3. Consistency is Key: Keep the bhaji slightly thick but not overly dry.
4. Experiment with Variations: Try adding paneer, grated cheese, or even mushrooms for unique twists.
5. Cook on Tawa for Street-Style Feel: Cooking on a large tawa enhances the taste and aroma.

Popular Variations

1. Cheese Pav Bhaji: Grate cheese on hot bhaji just before serving.
2. Jain Pav Bhaji: Skip onions, garlic, and potatoes. Use raw bananas instead.
3. Masala Pav: Cook the pav directly with bhaji for a spicier version.
4. Healthy Pav Bhaji: Use less butter and replace pav buns with whole wheat or multigrain bread.