Pav Bhaji is a popular street food from Mumbai, India, consisting of a spicy and flavorful vegetable mash (the “bhaji”) served with buttered and toasted pav (soft bread rolls). It’s a perfect comfort food that’s both hearty and satisfying. The bhaji is a rich, spicy vegetable curry, made with a mix of vegetables like potatoes, peas, carrots, and bell peppers, and it’s flavored with aromatic spices, including garam masala, coriander, and amchur (dry mango powder).

Pav Bhaji Recipe | What Is The Recipe Of Pav Bhaji
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp Butter
- 1 tbsp Oil
- 2-3 Garlic cloves
- 1/4 cup Onion finely chopped
- 1/2 cup Mixed vegetable Peas, Carrot, Beans steamed
- Salt to taste
- 1 tbsp Pav Bhaji Masala
- 1 tsp Red chili paste optional
- 1/4 cup Potatoes boiled and mashed
- 1/2 cup Tomato puree
- 2 tbsp Cream optional
- Water as needed
- 1/2 cup Cheese processed or mozzarella
- Onion and coriander to sprinkle
Instructions
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Heat butter and oil in a pan, add garlic cloves. Fry for a minute.
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Now add onion and fry until translucent.
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Add mixed vegetables, salt, pav bhaji masala, red chili paste and saute for a few minutes.
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Now add potatoes and mix well.
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Add tomato puree and mix for another couple of minutes. Now, at this point you can chose to grind the bhaji in a mixer (pulse it one or two times) to make a coarse mixture and not too smooth.
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Place the bhaji back into the pan and add water to thin the bhaji out a bit. Add cream and cheese and mix well until the cheese melts.
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Serve with toasted butter pav on the side or crackers.
Tips:
- Vegetable Variations: You can add or substitute other vegetables like pumpkin, green beans, or mushrooms to the bhaji.
- Adjust Spice Levels: If you prefer a milder bhaji, reduce the amount of red chili powder or green chilies. For a spicier version, increase the chili powder and add more chilies.
- Pav Bhaji Masala: You can buy pav bhaji masala from the store, or make your own by combining garam masala, coriander powder, cumin powder, turmeric, and a pinch of dry mango powder. The masala gives the bhaji its distinct flavor.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the bhaji ahead of time and store it in the fridge for 1-2 days. Reheat it before serving and adjust the consistency by adding a little water if needed.
Serving Suggestions:
- Toppings: Serve the bhaji with finely chopped onions, a squeeze of lime, and extra butter.
- Side Dishes: You can serve pav bhaji with a side of raita, pickle, or papad for a complete meal.
- Drink Pairing: Pair with a refreshing buttermilk or lemon soda to balance the spices.
Healthier Variations:
- Reduce Butter: If you want a healthier version, reduce the amount of butter used in both the bhaji and for toasting the pav. You can use olive oil or a light spread for the pav.
- Whole Wheat Pav: Use whole wheat pav instead of white bread for added fiber and nutrients.
Health Benefits:
- Vegetables: The mixed vegetables in the bhaji provide fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making it a nutritious dish.
- Pav: While pav is traditionally made from refined flour, you can make your own whole wheat pav for a healthier alternative.
Pav Bhaji is the ultimate comfort food, bursting with flavors and textures. It’s a perfect balance of spicy, tangy, and buttery goodness. Whether you’re enjoying it as a quick meal or a special treat, this iconic Mumbai street food is always a crowd-pleaser! Enjoy!