Authentic Pav Bhaji Recipe: A Step-by-Step Guide to Mumbai’s Favorite Street Food

Pav Bhaji, one of the most beloved street foods in India, originated in Mumbai and has become a household favorite across the country. Its rich, buttery flavor and spicy vegetable mash paired with soft pav make it an irresistible treat for all. Here, we’ll guide you on how to make authentic Pav Bhaji at home.

Ingredients For Bhaji (Vegetable Mix):

- Potatoes: 4 medium-sized (boiled and mashed)

- Cauliflower: 1 cup (chopped)

- Green Peas: 1/2 cup (boiled)

- Carrots: 1/2 cup (chopped)

- Capsicum: 1/2 cup (chopped)

- Tomatoes: 4 large (finely chopped)

- Onions: 2 large (finely chopped)

- Ginger-Garlic Paste: 2 tsp

- Pav Bhaji Masala: 2 tbsp

- Kashmiri Red Chili Powder: 1 tsp

- Turmeric Powder: 1/2 tsp

- Butter: 3 tbsp

- Oil: 2 tbsp

- Salt: To taste

- Lemon Juice: 1 tbsp

- Fresh Coriander Leaves: For garnish

For Pav (Bread):

- Pav Buns: 8-10

- Butter: For toasting

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

1. Boil potatoes, cauliflower, carrots, and peas until soft. Mash them coarsely and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Bhaji

1. Heat butter and oil in a large pan. Add finely chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.

2. Add ginger-garlic paste and cook until the raw aroma disappears.

3. Add chopped tomatoes and cook until they turn soft and mushy.

4. Add pav bhaji masala, chili powder, and turmeric. Mix well and cook for 2 minutes.

5. Add the mashed vegetables and mix thoroughly. Add water to adjust the consistency. Simmer for 10 minutes.

6. Add salt and lemon juice. Garnish with coriander leaves.

Step 3: Toast the Pav

1. Heat butter on a tawa (flat pan). Slice the pav buns and toast them until golden.

Step 4: Serve

Serve the hot bhaji with buttered pav, a dollop of butter on top, and chopped onions and lemon wedges on the side.

Quick Tips:

1. For an extra buttery flavor, add a dollop of butter to the bhaji while serving.

2. Use Kashmiri chili powder for a rich red color without making it too spicy.

3. Customize the vegetable mix according to your preference.

FAQs

1. What is Pav Bhaji Masala?

Pav Bhaji Masala is a special spice blend made with roasted and ground spices like coriander, cumin, fennel, and garam masala, giving Pav Bhaji its unique flavor.

2. Can I make Pav Bhaji without butter?

Yes, you can replace butter with oil for a healthier version, but butter enhances the authentic taste.

3. How to store leftover Bhaji?

Store the bhaji in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat it on low heat before serving.

Authentic Pav Bhaji Recipe: A Step-by-Step Guide to Mumbai’s Favorite Street Food