Pav Bhaji
Pav Bhaji is a popular street food from India, combining a spicy, vegetable-based mash with soft buttered bread rolls. This dish is hearty, flavorful, and perfect for sharing!
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Illustrated cooking guide
Step-by-step visual method
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Written method
Instructions
Read through once, then cook at your own pace with the illustrated guide above.
- 1
Boil the mixed vegetables until tender, then drain and mash them.
- 2
In a large pan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they turn translucent.
- 3
Stir in the ginger-garlic paste and chopped green chilies, cooking until fragrant.
- 4
Add the chopped tomatoes, cooking until they soften. Stir in the pav bhaji masala and mix well, allowing it to cook for a minute or two.
- 5
Fold the mashed vegetables into the tomato mixture, add salt to taste, and cook everything together for an additional 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- 6
Meanwhile, slice the pav in half and toast them on a separate pan with a bit of butter until golden brown.
- 7
Serve the bhaji hot with the toasted pav, garnished with fresh cilantro, and alongside lemon wedges.
Cook notes
Tips
Ensure the vegetables are boiled until very soft for a smoother bhaji.
Adjust the number of green chilies based on your spice preference.
Cook smarter
Helpful notes
Practical storage, serving, swap, and troubleshooting notes for a better first try.
Storage Tips
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheat on the stove, adding a splash of water if it thickens too much.
Substitutions
- Use frozen mixed vegetables instead of fresh ones for convenience.
- Swap pav for soft hamburger buns if unavailable.
What to Serve With
- Chaat masala sprinkled on top for extra flavor.
- A side of cucumber salad for freshness.
Common Mistakes
- Not mashing the vegetables finely enough can affect the texture.
- Overcooking the toasted pav can make them too hard.
Recipe FAQ
What can I use instead of pav bhaji masala?
You can use a blend of garam masala and cumin powder as a substitute.
What vegetables work best for Pav Bhaji?
Potatoes, peas, carrots, and bell peppers are traditional, but you can add cauliflower or green beans too.
Can I make Pav Bhaji in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the bhaji ahead of time and reheat it before serving.
Kitchen tools
Helpful Tools for This Recipe
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Blender
Helpful for smooth sauces, soups, marinades, and purees.
Chef knife
A basic prep tool for vegetables, herbs, aromatics, and proteins.
Cutting board
Keeps prep organized for chopping, slicing, and staging ingredients.
Measuring spoons
Useful for balancing spices, salt, acids, and sauces.
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