Authentic Pav Bhaji Recipe
Pav Bhaji is a popular street food from Mumbai, India, known for its rich, spicy flavor and comforting taste. It’s a mix of mashed vegetables cooked in a blend of spices, served with buttered toasted buns called pav. This recipe will guide you to make authentic pav bhaji that brings the vibrant flavors of Indian street food right to your kitchen!
Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons butter (divided)
- 1 tablespoon oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 medium tomatoes, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 cup cauliflower florets
- 2 medium potatoes, boiled and mashed
- 1 cup green peas
- 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
- 2 teaspoons pav bhaji masala
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- Salt, to taste
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Fresh coriander leaves, chopped for garnish
- 8 pav buns
- Extra butter for toasting buns
Instructions
- Heat 2 tablespoons of butter and 1 tablespoon of oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until golden brown.
- Add the ginger-garlic paste and sauté for another minute. Add the tomatoes and cook until they are soft and mushy.
- Add the green bell pepper, cauliflower, boiled potatoes, and green peas. Stir well and cook for 5-6 minutes.
- Add the pav bhaji masala, chili powder, turmeric powder, and salt. Use a masher to mash the vegetables thoroughly while they cook, until everything is well combined and almost smooth.
- Add a cup of water and let the bhaji simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add more water if needed to reach your desired consistency.
- Stir in the lemon juice and the remaining tablespoon of butter. Garnish with chopped coriander leaves.
- To serve, heat a separate pan and add some butter. Slice the pav buns in half and toast them until golden and crisp.
- Serve the bhaji hot, garnished with coriander and a dollop of butter, along with the toasted pav buns and lemon wedges.
Tips
You can adjust the level of spice by adding more or less chili powder. For extra richness, you can add a dollop of butter while serving the bhaji. Serve with some chopped onions and lemon wedges on the side for extra flavor.
FAQs
- Can I make pav bhaji ahead of time? Yes, the bhaji can be prepared ahead of time and reheated just before serving. The flavors tend to develop even better when reheated.
- What vegetables can I add to pav bhaji? You can add any vegetables like carrots, beans, or even spinach for added nutrition.
- Is pav bhaji spicy? Pav bhaji is moderately spicy, but you can adjust the chili powder to make it more or less spicy as per your preference.
- How do I store leftovers? Store the bhaji in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pan over low heat.
Conclusion
This authentic pav bhaji recipe is perfect for those who crave the vibrant, spicy flavors of Mumbai street food. It’s easy to make, comforting, and delicious, ideal for a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends. Serve it with buttery toasted buns, and enjoy a taste of India right at home!
