Pav Bhaji is a delicious and flavorful mashed vegetable curry served with butter-toasted soft bread rolls, known as pav. This beloved Mumbai street food is rich, spicy, and perfect for a quick snack or a hearty meal. Here’s a step-by-step guide to making authentic Pav Bhaji at home.

Part 1: Ingredients for Pav BhajiFor the Bhaji (Vegetable Curry):3 large potatoes, peeled and diced1 cup cauliflower, chopped1/2 cup green peas1/2 cup carrots, chopped1 green bell pepper, chopped2 large tomatoes, finely chopped1 large onion, finely chopped1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste2-3 green chilies, chopped (optional for heat)1 teaspoon cumin seeds2 tablespoons Pav Bhaji masala1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder1 teaspoon red chili powderSalt to taste2 tablespoons butter2 tablespoons oil2 tablespoons coriander leaves, chopped (for garnish)1 lemon, cut into wedgesWater as neededFor the Pav (Bread Rolls):6-8 pav (dinner rolls)2-3 tablespoons butterA pinch of Pav Bhaji masala for sprinkling

Part 2: Preparing the BhajiStep 1: Boil the VegetablesIn a large pot, boil the potatoes, cauliflower, green peas, and carrots with a pinch of salt until they are soft. You can also pressure cook the vegetables for about 2-3 whistles.Once boiled, drain any excess water and mash the vegetables roughly. Set aside.Step 2: Sauté the Onions and SpicesIn a large pan or kadhai, heat oil and butter together. Add cumin seeds and let them splutter.Add the chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown.Stir in the ginger-garlic paste and cook for 1-2 minutes until the raw smell disappears.Step 3: Add Tomatoes and SpicesAdd the chopped tomatoes and cook until they become soft and mushy, and the oil starts to separate from the mixture.Add turmeric powder, red chili powder, and Pav Bhaji masala. Mix well and cook for 2-3 minutes.Step 4: Add Bell PepperAdd the chopped green bell pepper to the pan and sauté for another 3-4 minutes until the peppers soften slightly.

Part 3: Combining the Vegetables and SpicesStep 5: Mix the Mashed VegetablesAdd the mashed vegetables (potatoes, cauliflower, peas, and carrots) into the onion-tomato mixture.Mix well and cook on medium heat, mashing the vegetables further with a potato masher to achieve a smooth consistency.Step 6: Adjust ConsistencyAdd water in small amounts, stirring continuously, until you reach the desired consistency. Pav Bhaji should be slightly thick but spreadable.Add salt to taste and simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent it from sticking.Part 4: Toasting the PavStep 7: Toast the PavHeat a tawa (griddle) on medium heat and melt a generous amount of butter on it.Place the pav buns on the tawa and toast them until both sides are golden and crispy. Sprinkle a little Pav Bhaji masala on the buns while toasting for extra flavor.

Part 5: Serving Pav BhajiStep 8: Garnish and ServeGarnish the hot bhaji with chopped coriander leaves and a generous knob of butter.Serve with toasted pav, lemon wedges, and finely chopped onions on the side.Cooking Tips for Perfect Pav Bhaji:Pav Bhaji Masala: Using a good-quality Pav Bhaji masala is key to getting that authentic street food flavor. You can easily find it in Indian grocery stores or make your own.Butter Makes It Better: Don’t skimp on the butter—it gives Pav Bhaji its signature richness and flavor.Spice Level: Adjust the red chili powder and green chilies according to your heat preference.ConclusionPav Bhaji is a delicious, easy-to-make dish that is perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a weekend treat or a special dinner. With its spicy, buttery bhaji and perfectly toasted pav, this dish will transport you straight to the streets of Mumbai!