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.

A Light, Flavorful & Comforting Breakfast Favorite

If you’ve ever visited Maharashtra, you know that Kanda Batata Poha is more than just a dish—it’s a morning ritual! This quick, flavorful, and nutritious dish is a staple in many Indian households, loved for its soft, fluffy texture and perfect balance of spices. Whether you’re in a rush on a weekday morning or craving something light yet satisfying, Kanda Batata Poha is the ultimate go-to breakfast.

Made with flattened rice (poha), onions (kanda), potatoes (batata), and a simple tempering of mustard seeds, curry leaves, and green chilies, this dish is easy to prepare and incredibly delicious. And the best part? It’s ready in under 20 minutes!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✔ Super quick & easy – Perfect for busy mornings.
✔ Light yet filling – A great balance of carbs and fiber.
✔ Healthy & nutritious – Packed with iron & energy.
✔ Perfectly spiced – Mild heat with a hint of sweetness.
✔ One-pot recipe – Minimum effort, maximum taste!

Ingredients You’ll Need

🥣 2 cups poha (flattened rice) – The star of the dish.
🧅 1 large onion (finely chopped) – Adds mild sweetness.
🥔 1 small potato (cubed & parboiled) – A delicious bite.
🌿 8-10 curry leaves – Aromatic & flavorful.
🌶️ 2 green chilies (chopped) – Adjust for spice.
🧄 1 tsp mustard seeds – For tempering.
🌻 1 tbsp oil – Preferably peanut or sunflower oil.
🌼 ½ tsp turmeric powder – Gives that golden color.
🧂 Salt to taste – Essential seasoning.
🍋 Juice of ½ lemon – Brightens up the flavors.
🥜 2 tbsp peanuts (roasted) – For crunch.
🌿 2 tbsp coriander leaves (chopped) – Fresh and herby.
🧉 1 tsp sugar – Balances the flavors (optional).

Step-By-Step Recipe

Step 1: Prep the Poha

🥣 Rinse poha in a colander under running water for a few seconds. Drain and let it sit for 5 minutes until soft.
🌼 Add turmeric powder and salt to the poha and mix gently.

Step 2: Cook the Base

🔥 Heat oil in a pan. Add mustard seeds and let them splutter.
🌿 Toss in curry leaves, green chilies, and peanuts. Sauté until peanuts turn crisp.
🧅 Add chopped onions and cook until translucent.
🥔 Stir in parboiled potatoes and sauté for 2-3 minutes.

Step 3: Combine & Serve

🥄 Gently mix in the poha and stir well. Cook for 2-3 minutes on low flame.
🍋 Squeeze fresh lemon juice and mix.
🌿 Garnish with chopped coriander and serve hot!

Pro Tips for the Best Poha

💡 Don’t over-soak poha – Just rinse and drain. It should be soft but not mushy.
💡 Use medium or thick poha – Thin poha tends to get soggy.
💡 For extra crunch – Add fried peanuts and sev before serving.
💡 Customize it! – You can add veggies like peas, carrots, or capsicum for more nutrition.
💡 For a spicy kick – Add a little red chili powder or extra green chilies.

What to Serve with Kanda Batata Poha?

✅ Masala Chai – The ultimate pairing!
✅ Fresh Coconut Chutney – A coastal twist.
✅ Yogurt or Buttermilk – For a cooling effect.
✅ Sev or Farsan – A crunchy garnish.

Healthier Alternatives

🌾 Use red rice poha – A more fiber-rich alternative.
🥜 Reduce oil – Dry roast peanuts instead of frying.
🧂 Skip sugar – If you prefer a completely savory taste.
🍅 Add more veggies – Make it a wholesome meal with more fiber.

Kanda Batata Poha is the perfect balance of simplicity, taste, and nutrition! Try this easy recipe and bring a taste of Mumbai to your home. 🍛🔥

(FAQ's) 

1. Why is my poha turning mushy?

You might be soaking it for too long. Just rinse and drain immediately.

2. Can I make Poha in advance?

Yes! You can prepare the tempering and potatoes in advance and mix with poha when ready to serve.

3. Is Poha gluten-free?

Yes, poha is naturally gluten-free and easy to digest.

4. How can I make it more protein-rich?

Add boiled chickpeas, paneer, or tofu for extra protein.

5. Can I use raw potatoes instead of boiled?

Yes, but you’ll need to cook them longer until tender.

6. How do I store leftover Poha?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 day. Reheat with a splash of water.

7. What’s the best type of Poha to use?

Thick or medium poha works best. Thin poha will become too soggy.