Pav Bhaji
Indian

Pav Bhaji

Mumbai street food of mashed mixed vegetables in a spicy butter-tomato curry, served with toasted bread rolls.

PotatoPotato
CauliflowerCauliflower
PeasPeas
TomatoTomato
OnionOnion
ButterButter
Medium32 min

Where it comes from

Pav Bhaji has its roots in the bustling streets of Mumbai, emerging as a popular street food in the 1960s. This vibrant dish combines mashed vegetables with a spicy, buttery tomato gravy, served with soft, toasted bread rolls known as pav. Interestingly, it was initially created to feed textile mill workers, evolving into a beloved culinary staple that represents the spirit of Mumbai's street food culture.

Mumbai's vibrant street food that wraps comfort and spice in every bite, with butter melting into a sea of mashed vegetables.

On the Palate

HeatRichnessComplexityFermentFreshness

How it's made

6 steps · Show
32 min active
  1. 1
    10 min

    Boil potatoes, cauliflower, and peas until tender. Drain and mash them together until smooth, about 10 minutes.

  2. 2
    5 min

    Heat butter in a large tava or skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until they turn translucent and soft, about 5 minutes.

  3. 3
    2 min

    Add garlic, ginger, and chili pepper to the pan, stirring until fragrant, about 2 minutes. The mixture should sizzle and release a spicy aroma.

  4. 4
    8 min

    Add chopped tomatoes and cook until they break down into a thick sauce, about 8 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

  5. 5
    5 min

    Stir in the mashed vegetables, season with salt and pav bhaji masala, and cook for another 5 minutes. The bhaji should be thick and well-mixed.

  6. 6
    2 min

    Serve hot with buttered bread rolls, garnished with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lemon.

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