Pav Bhaji is a beloved Indian street food dish originating from Mumbai, known for its vibrant flavors and comforting texture. This spicy, buttery mashed vegetable curry, or bhaji, is made with a medley of boiled vegetables like potatoes, cauliflower, and peas, blended with a rich tomato-based sauce and aromatic pav bhaji masala. Served with soft, butter-toasted pav buns, it’s garnished with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lemon for a zesty kick. Perfect for a quick meal or a festive gathering, Pav Bhaji is a crowd-pleaser that brings the essence of Mumbai’s bustling streets to your plate.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (potatoes, cauliflower, carrots, peas), boiled and mashed
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, finely chopped
- 2 tomatoes, pureed
- 2 tbsp pav bhaji masala
- 1 tsp red chili powder
- 1 tsp ginger-garlic paste
- 2 tbsp butter
- Salt to taste
- 4 pav buns
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
Instructions:
- Heat 1 tbsp butter in a pan. Add ginger-garlic paste and sauté for 30 seconds.
- Add onions and bell pepper. Cook until onions are golden.
- Stir in tomato puree, pav bhaji masala, red chili powder, and salt. Cook until oil separates.
- Add mashed vegetables and ½ cup water. Mix well, mashing as you stir. Simmer for 5-7 minutes.
- Adjust consistency with more water if needed. Add 1 tbsp butter and cilantro.
- Toast pav buns with butter on a separate pan until golden.
- Serve hot bhaji with toasted pav, a dollop of butter, cilantro, and lemon wedges.
Serves: 2-3
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins