Pav Bhaji is a popular street food dish from Mumbai, India. It consists of a flavorful vegetable curry (bhaji) served with soft buttered pav buns. This delicious and satisfying dish is loved by people of all ages. In this article, we will guide you through the process of making authentic Mumbai-style Pav Bhaji right in your own kitchen.

Ingredients:

• 4 medium-sized potatoes, boiled and mashed
• 1 cup cauliflower florets, boiled and mashed
• 1/2 cup green peas, boiled and mashed
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 1 medium-sized bell pepper (capsicum), finely chopped
• 2 medium-sized tomatoes, finely chopped
• 4-5 garlic cloves, minced
• 1-inch piece of ginger, grated
• 2 tablespoons Pav Bhaji masala
• 1 teaspoon red chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• Salt to taste
• Butter for cooking
• Chopped coriander leaves for garnishing
• 8 pav buns
• Lemon wedges

Instructions:

• Heat a large pan or a flat griddle (tawa) on medium heat. Add a generous amount of butter to the pan and let it melt.

• Add the finely chopped onions to the pan and sauté until they turn translucent.

• Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the pan. Sauté for a minute until the raw smell disappears.

• Now, add the finely chopped bell pepper (capsicum) to the pan and cook for a couple of minutes until it becomes slightly tender.

• Add the finely chopped tomatoes to the pan and cook until they turn mushy and blend well with the other ingredients.

• Once the tomatoes are cooked, add the Pav Bhaji masala, red chili powder, turmeric powder, and salt to taste. Mix well to combine all the spices.

• Now, add the boiled and mashed potatoes, cauliflower, and green peas to the pan. Mix everything together until the vegetables and spices are well-incorporated.

• Using a potato masher or the back of a spoon, mash the vegetables while stirring continuously. Continue mashing and stirring until you achieve a smooth and creamy consistency.

• Add a little water if the bhaji appears too dry. Mix well and let the bhaji simmer for 5-10 minutes on low heat to allow the flavors to blend together.

• In the meantime, split the pav buns horizontally and lightly toast them on a griddle with a little butter until they turn golden brown.

• Once the Pav Bhaji is ready, remove it from heat and garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves.

• Serve the hot and flavorful bhaji with the buttered pav buns. Squeeze some fresh lemon juice over the bhaji for an extra tangy kick.

Mumbai-style Pav Bhaji is best enjoyed by spreading a dollop of butter over the bhaji and pairing it with the soft and buttery pav buns.

Conclusion:

Now you can prepare the authentic and delicious Mumbai-style Pav Bhaji in the comfort of your own home. This flavorful and satisfying dish is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. Enjoy the tangy and spicy bhaji with the soft pav buns, and savor the taste of Mumbai street food right at your dining table.

FAQs

Q: Can I customize the vegetables in the Pav Bhaji recipe?

A: Yes, you can add or omit vegetables according to your preference. Some variations include carrots, beans, and beetroot.

Q: Is Pav Bhaji a vegetarian dish?

A: Yes, Pav Bhaji is a vegetarian dish. It is made with a medley of vegetables and spices.

Q: What is Pav Bhaji masala?

A: Pav Bhaji Masala is a blend of various spices like coriander, cumin, fennel, cinnamon, and cloves. It adds a unique and flavorful taste to the dish.

Q: Can I use store-bought Pav Bhaji masala?

A: Yes, you can use store-bought Pav Bhaji masala if you don't have the individual spices. However, freshly ground spices will enhance the taste.

Q: Can I make Pav Bhaji ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can prepare the bhaji in advance and reheat it when serving. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.