Popular Indian street meal called pav bhaji was first produced in Mumbai, Maharashtra. It is a delicious and spicy vegetable curry, served with soft bread rolls called pav. Pav Bhaji is a perfect combination of different vegetables and spices, making it an ideal dish for vegetarians. In this article, we will learn how to prepare the mouthwatering Pav Bhaji recipe step-by-step.
Ingredients For Pav Bhaji Recipe

The following ingredients are required to make Pav Bhaji:
● 3 medium-sized potatoes
● 1 large onion
● 1 green bell pepper
● 2 medium-sized tomatoes
● 1 cup of green peas
● 1 cup of cauliflower florets
● 1 cup of finely chopped carrots
● 4-5 garlic cloves
● 1-inch ginger
● 1 teaspoon of cumin seeds
● 1 teaspoon of mustard seeds
● 1 teaspoon of red chili powder
● 1 tablespoon of Pav Bhaji masala
● 1 tablespoon of butter
● Salt to taste
● 1 tablespoon of oil
● 8-10 Pav (bread rolls)
● Freshly chopped coriander leaves
Step-by-Step Method

Step 1: Preparing the Vegetables

1) The potatoes, onions, and tomatoes should all be peeled and finely chopped.

2) Finely chop the green bell pepper, garlic cloves, and ginger.

3) Steam or boil the cauliflower florets, green peas, and carrots until they become tender.

Step 2: Preparing the Masala

1) Add butter to a pan. pan is optional you can use Tawa for better taste.

2) Now add finely chopped garlic, ginger, and green bell pepper.

3) Cook for 2-3 minutes until the chili pepper becomes soft.

4) Add the chopped onions and cook them until they are transparent.

5) Cook the chopped tomatoes after adding them until they are mushy and tender.

6) Salt, red chilli flakes, and Pav Bhaji masala should be added.

7) Mix well and cook for 2-3 minutes.

Step 3: Mashing the Vegetables

1) Add boiled potatoes, steamed cauliflower florets, green peas, and carrots to the masala.

2) Mash the vegetables using a potato masher or back of a spoon.

3) Add water as required and mix well.

4) On low heat, cook for 5 to 10 minutes while stirring occasionally.

5) Add a tablespoon of butter and mix well.

Step 4: Preparing the Pav

1) Cut the Pav in half horizontally.

2) Heat a griddle or tawa and add butter.

3) Place the Pav on the griddle and cook until they become slightly golden brown.

4) Serve hot with the prepared Pav Bhaji and chopped coriander leaves.

Now Final Foam

Tips for Making the Perfect Pav Bhaji

● Use fresh and seasonal vegetables for better taste.
● Adjust the spice level according to your preference.
● Adding butter gives a rich flavor to the dish.
● Mash the vegetables well to get the desired consistency.
● Serve the Pav Bhaji hot with buttered Pav.
● Serving Suggestions
Serving Suggestions

Serving Suggestions for Pav Bhaji:
● Buttered Pav – Serve the Pav Bhaji with toasted and buttered Pav bread for a classic combination.
● Chopped Onions and Coriander – Top the Pav Bhaji with some chopped onions and coriander leaves for added freshness and crunch.
● Lemon Wedges – Serve some lemon wedges on the side to squeeze over the Pav Bhaji for a tangy kick.
● Pickles – Serve some pickles, such as mango pickle or lemon pickle, on the side to complement the spicy and tangy flavors of the Pav Bhaji.
● Raita – Serve some cucumber raita or onion raita on the side to cool down the palate and balance the flavors.
● Sev – Top the Pav Bhaji with some crunchy sev or bhujia for an extra texture and flavor.
These serving suggestions can enhance the overall taste and presentation of the Pav Bhaji, making it a more satisfying and enjoyable meal.
Health Benefits of Pav Bhaji

Health Benefits of Pav Bhaji:
● Nutrient-dense Vegetables – Pav Bhaji is made with a variety of vegetables, such as potatoes, tomatoes, capsicum, peas, and carrots, which are rich in vitamins, minerals, and fiber. These nutrients can support overall health and wellbeing, and may reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
● Antioxidants – Pav Bhaji contains spices, such as turmeric, cumin, and coriander, which are rich in antioxidants. These compounds can protect the body against oxidative stress and inflammation, which are associated with many health problems.
● Protein – Pav Bhaji can be a source of protein, especially if made with paneer or eggs. Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues, and for maintaining strong muscles and bones.
● Low in Fat – Pav Bhaji is typically low in fat, especially if made without adding extra butter or oil. This can be beneficial for those who are watching their weight or cholesterol levels.
● Energy Boost – Pav Bhaji is a high-carbohydrate dish, which can provide a quick and sustained source of energy. This can be helpful for those who are physically active or need a boost of energy throughout the day.
While Pav Bhaji can be a tasty and satisfying meal, it should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. It is important to keep the portion sizes in check and balance it out with other nutrient-dense foods.
FAQs
How to make Pav Bhaji at home?
To make Pav Bhaji at home, boil and mash vegetables such as potatoes, peas, and carrots, and cook them with spices and tomatoes. Serve with buttered Pav bread.
How many calories are in Pav Bhaji?
The calorie content of Pav Bhaji can vary depending on the ingredients and portion size, but a serving of Pav Bhaji can range from 300 to 500 calories.
What are the main ingredients in Pav Bhaji?
The main ingredients in Pav Bhaji are potatoes, tomatoes, peas, carrots, capsicum, onions, garlic, and a blend of spices.
What are the best Pav Bhaji masala brands?
Some popular brands of Pav Bhaji masala include Everest, MDH, and Badshah.
What can I substitute for Pav bread?
If you cannot find Pav bread, you can substitute it with any soft bread, such as burger buns or dinner rolls.
Can I make Pav Bhaji without butter?
Yes, you can make Pav Bhaji without butter by using oil instead. However, the butter adds a rich and creamy flavor to the dish.
How to store leftover Pav Bhaji?
Leftover Pav Bhaji can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or in the freezer for up to a month.
What are the best side dishes to serve with Pav Bhaji?
Some popular side dishes to serve with Pav Bhaji include raita, salad, and pickle.
How to make Pav Bhaji in a slow cooker?
To make Pav Bhaji in a slow cooker, add the mashed vegetables, spices, and tomatoes to the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours.
How to make Pav Bhaji for a large crowd?
To make Pav Bhaji for a large crowd, increase the recipe quantities and use a large pot or pressure cooker. You can also prepare the Pav Bhaji ahead of time and reheat before serving.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Pav Bhaji recipe is a beloved dish that originated in Mumbai and has now become popular across India and even worldwide. It is a flavorful and nutritious vegetarian dish that is easy to make and can be customized to suit individual tastes.
Whether you are looking for a quick snack or a hearty meal, Pav Bhaji is a great choice. It’s also a great way to sneak in some veggies into your diet, and with the many variations and health benefits, it’s no wonder that it’s a favorite of many. So go ahead and try this delectable dish; your taste buds will appreciate it!