Pav Bhaji – The Ultim ate Mumbai Street Food

A Burst of Flavors on Your Plate !

The moment you step onto the streets of Mumbai, you’ll be greeted by the irresistible aroma of buttery, spicy Pav Bhaji sizzling on massive iron tavas (griddles). It’s more than just food—it’s an experience!

Pav Bhaji is the king of Indian street food—a spicy, tangy, and buttery mashed vegetable curry served with soft, toasted pav (bread rolls). Every bite is packed with bold flavors, and it’s the perfect dish to satisfy cravings, whether it’s for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.

Originally created as a quick meal for Mumbai’s textile workers, this dish has now become a beloved comfort food across India. And the best part? You can easily make it at home with simple ingredients!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✔ Authentic street-style taste – Just like Mumbai’s best stalls!
✔ Super easy & quick – Ready in 30 minutes.
✔ Loaded with veggies – Tasty yet wholesome.
✔ Perfect for all ages – Kids and adults love it!
✔ Make it your way – Adjust spice levels and toppings.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Bhaji (Masala Curry):

🥔 3 large potatoes – The base of the bhaji.
🥕 1 carrot (chopped) – Adds sweetness.
🌿 ½ cup green peas – Brings a fresh touch.
🍅 2 large tomatoes (finely chopped or pureed) – The tangy hero!
🧅 1 onion (finely chopped) – For depth of flavor.
🧄 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste – Adds richness.
🌶️ 1 green chili (finely chopped) – Optional, for extra heat.
🥄 1 tsp Kashmiri red chili powder – For color & mild spice.
🍛 2 tsp Pav Bhaji Masala – The secret to authentic flavor!
🧂 Salt to taste – Brings everything together.
🧈 2 tbsp butter – The magic ingredient for ultimate taste!
🌿 Fresh coriander (for garnish) – Because freshness matters.

For the Pav (Bread Rolls):

🍞 8 Pav (soft bread rolls) – Lightly toasted in butter.
🧈 1 tbsp butter – Because more butter = more flavor!

Step-By-Step Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Vegetables

🥔 Boil potatoes, carrots, and peas until soft.
🥄 Mash them slightly and keep aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Bhaji Masala

🔥 Heat butter in a pan and sauté onions until golden.
🧄 Add ginger-garlic paste and green chilies, cook till fragrant.
🍅 Stir in tomatoes, salt, red chili powder, and pav bhaji masala.
🍛 Cook until oil separates (key for deep flavors!).

Step 3: Mash & Simmer

🥄 Add the boiled veggies and mash everything together.
🔥 Simmer for 5-7 minutes, adding water as needed for consistency.
🌿 Finish with a knob of butter & fresh coriander!

Step 4: Toast the Pav

🧈 Heat butter on a tawa, toast the pav until golden and crispy.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!

🍛 Serve hot with chopped onions, lemon wedges, and extra butter.

Pro Tips for the Best Pav Bhaji

💡 Mash well – A smooth bhaji tastes the best!
💡 Use fresh butter – It’s the soul of street-style Pav Bhaji.
💡 Spice it up! – Add extra pav bhaji masala for more kick.
💡 Garnish generously – Coriander and butter make a huge difference.
💡 For extra richness, add a splash of cream at the end.

What to Serve with Pav Bhaji?

✅ Chopped onions & lemon wedges – Balances the richness.
✅ Extra butter – Because you can never have too much!
✅ Chilled lassi or masala chai – The perfect drink pairing.
✅ Crispy papad or fryums – A fun crunchy side!

Healthier Alternatives

🌿 Use less butter – It’ll still taste amazing!
🥦 Add more veggies – Bell peppers, cauliflower, or spinach work great.
🍞 Try whole wheat pav – A slightly healthier option.

This Pav Bhaji recipe brings the Authentic flavors of Mumbai straight to your kitchen! Let me know how it turns out for you. 😍🍛

(FAQ's)

1. Can I make Pav Bhaji without butter?

Yes, but butter adds authentic street-style richness. You can use oil or a mix of butter & oil for balance.

2. What can I use instead of Pav Bhaji Masala?

Mix garam masala, cumin powder, and coriander powder for a similar taste. But store-bought pav bhaji masala gives the best results!

3. How do I make my Pav Bhaji spicier?

Add extra red chili powder, green chilies, or a bit of black pepper.

4. Can I prepare Pav Bhaji in advance?

Yes! Store the bhaji in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just reheat with a little butter before serving.

5. Is Pav Bhaji gluten-free?

The bhaji is naturally gluten-free! Just swap regular pav for gluten-free bread.

6. What’s the best way to mash the vegetables?

Use a potato masher for the right texture—smooth yet slightly chunky.

7. Can I freeze Pav Bhaji?

Yes! Store in an airtight container and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw and reheat before serving.