Pav Bhaji Recipe: Quick & Delicious Street Style Flavor at Home

Pav Bhaji Recipe: If you’re a fan of street food, Pav Bhaji is a name that needs no introduction. A spicy, flavorful vegetable mash paired with buttery pav bread, this iconic dish hails from the streets of Mumbai but has captured hearts across the globe.

Whether it’s a quick snack or a hearty meal, Pav Bhaji fits every occasion. Let’s dive into how you can recreate this magic at home.


Ingredients for Pav Bhaji Recipe

Essential Ingredients for the Bhaji

  • Tomatoes (3 large, finely chopped)
  • Onions (2 medium-sized, finely chopped)
  • Potatoes (3 medium-sized)
  • Cauliflower (1 cup, chopped)
  • Capsicum (1 medium-sized, finely chopped)
  • Green peas (1 cup, boiled)
  • Pav Bhaji Masala (2 tbsp)
  • Red chili powder (1 tsp)
  • Turmeric powder (½ tsp)
  • Garlic paste (1 tsp)
  • Salt to taste
  • Butter (4 tbsp)

Ingredients for Pav

  • Pav bread (8 pieces)
  • Butter (as needed)

Also Read: Akkha Masoor Dal Recipe: Step-By-Step Guide


Optional Toppings and Garnishes

  • Fresh coriander leaves (finely chopped)
  • Finely chopped onions
  • Lemon wedges
  • Grated cheese (optional)

Tools Needed

  • Potato masher
  • Large pan or kadhai
  • Knife and chopping board
  • Spatula
  • Blender (optional)

Also Read: Paneer Tikka Masala vs Shahi Paneer: Which is Better?


How to Make Delicious Pav Bhaji

Preparing the Vegetables

  1. Boiling the Vegetables: In a pressure cooker, add potatoes, green peas, cauliflower, and a little water. Cook until the vegetables are soft.
  2. Mashing the Vegetables: Once boiled, mash the vegetables using a potato masher. Keep it slightly chunky for a better texture.

Cooking the Bhaji

  1. Sautéing the Spices: In a large pan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add garlic paste and onions, and sauté until golden.
  2. Adding Tomatoes: Add chopped tomatoes and cook until they turn soft and mushy.
  3. Mixing Spices: Add red chili powder, turmeric, and Pav Bhaji Masala. Mix well.
  4. Combining Vegetables: Add the mashed vegetables to the pan. Stir to combine the spices and vegetables thoroughly.
  5. Adjusting Consistency: Add water gradually to get a thick yet spreadable consistency. Let it simmer for 10-15 minutes.

Toasting the Pav

  1. Butter the Pav: Slice the Pav horizontally and spread butter on each side.
  2. Toast: On a flat pan or tawa, toast the pav until golden brown.

Pro Tips for the Best Pav Bhaji

  1. Use fresh, seasonal vegetables for a richer flavor.
  2. Adjust the spice level according to your preference.
  3. Add a dollop of butter just before serving for an authentic street-style taste.

Also Read: Saag Paneer vs Palak Paneer: Which is Better?


Variations of Pav Bhaji

  1. Jain Pav Bhaji: Made without onions, garlic, or potatoes.
  2. Cheese Pav Bhaji: Topped with grated cheese for a gooey twist.
  3. Paneer Pav Bhaji: Includes paneer cubes for added protein.
  4. Street-style Pav Bhaji: Cooked on a large tawa for an authentic taste.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  1. Overcooking Vegetables: This can make the bhaji lose its texture.
  2. Using Too Much Water: It dilutes the flavor.
  3. Skipping the Mashing Step: Properly mashed vegetables are key to the dish’s texture.

Conclusion: Pav Bhaji Recipe

Pav Bhaji is not just food; it’s an emotion. With its rich blend of spices and vegetables, it brings people together, one plate at a time. Try this recipe at home, and let your kitchen be filled with the irresistible aroma of Mumbai’s favorite street food.


FAQs: Pav Bhaji Recipe

  1. What vegetables can I use in Pav Bhaji?

    You can use carrots, beans, and even sweet corn along with the standard ingredients for added flavor.

  2. Can I make Pav Bhaji without butter?

    Yes, replace butter with oil for a healthier version, but butter adds authentic richness.

  3. How can I store leftover Pav Bhaji?

    It can be kept in the fridge for up to two days in an airtight container. Reheat with a splash of water before serving.

  4. What is the best alternative to pav?

    You can use burger buns, toasted bread slices, or even chapati as an alternative.

  5. Can I freeze Pav Bhaji?

    Yes, you can freeze it in portions. Thaw and reheat when needed, ensuring the flavors remain intact.