Pav Bhaji Recipe – Mumbai Street Style

If there’s one dish that perfectly captures the essence of Mumbai’s vibrant street food culture, it’s Pav Bhaji. A symphony of flavors, colors, and textures, this spicy, buttery dish is beloved by food lovers across the globe. Pav Bhaji, with its iconic blend of mashed vegetables simmered in spices and paired with soft, butter-soaked pavs, isn’t just a meal—it’s an experience that transports you to the heart of Mumbai’s bustling streets, where vendors whip up this delicious comfort food with unparalleled passion.

In this article, I will share the authentic recipe for Mumbai street-style Pav Bhaji, detailing each step so that you can recreate that same magic right at home. Let’s dive in and decode the secrets of making a perfectly spiced, buttery Pav Bhaji!

What is Pav Bhaji?

It is a popular street food dish that originated in Mumbai, India. It consists of a spicy, flavorful vegetable mash called “bhaji,” served with buttered, toasted buns known as “pav.” The bhaji is made from a medley of mashed vegetables—like potatoes, tomatoes, peas, and bell peppers—simmered in a fragrant blend of spices, including the essential Pav Bhaji masala. The pav, soft buns typically toasted with butter, acts as the perfect vehicle to scoop up the rich, savory bhaji.

The dish has humble origins. It was first created as a quick and affordable meal for Mumbai’s textile mill workers in the mid-19th century. Over time, its irresistible flavor, versatility, and ability to feed large groups made it a beloved street food across India. Today, Pav Bhaji is not just a quick meal—it’s a cultural icon that showcases Mumbai’s vibrant food scene.

Why is Pav Bhaji so Popular?

Pav Bhaji is much more than just another street food dish. Originating from Mumbai’s textile mill workers, it was initially a quick-fix meal that could be whipped up with whatever vegetables were on hand, making it filling, nutritious, and affordable. Over time, it gained widespread popularity, and today it’s a must-try delicacy in every Mumbai street food tour.

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The real magic of Pav Bhaji lies in its tangy, spicy, and deeply aromatic gravy made from a medley of vegetables like potatoes, tomatoes, peas, and bell peppers, all cooked together in a heady mix of spices. When served with butter-toasted pavs and topped with a dollop of butter, chopped onions, and a squeeze of lemon, it’s pure indulgence.

Detailed Recipe of Mumbai Street-Style Pav Bhaji at Home

Craving the bold, buttery flavors of Mumbai’s famous street-style Pav Bhaji? You don’t have to hit the streets to enjoy this iconic dish. With a few key ingredients and easy steps, you can recreate the same vibrant, spicy bhaji and perfectly toasted pav right in your kitchen. Let’s dive into the recipe and bring the essence of Mumbai street food home!

Pav Bhaji – Mumbai’s Famous Street Style

Pav Bhaji is a popular Indian street food snack featuring a spicy, mashed vegetable curry (bhaji) served with buttered pav buns. This flavorful, comforting dish is enjoyed as a quick snack or meal, loved for its bold spices and buttery richness.

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Course Breakfast, Snack

Cuisine Indian

Servings 2 People

Calories 500 kcal

Ingredients

  

For Bhaji

• 2 medium-sized potatoes (boiled and mashed)
• ½ cup cauliflower florets
• ½ cup green peas (fresh or frozen)
• ½ green bell pepper (chopped)
• 2 large tomatoes (finely chopped)
• 1 medium onion (finely chopped)
• 1 green chili (slit)
• 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
• 1½ tablespoon Pav Bhaji masala
• ½ teaspoon turmeric powder
• ½ teaspoon red chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 2 tablespoons butter (more for serving)
• 1 tablespoon oil
• Salt to taste
• Fresh coriander leaves for garnishing
• Lemon wedges and finely chopped onions for serving

For Pav

• 4 pav buns
• 2 tablespoons Butter for toasting

Instructions

 

Step 1: Prepare and Boil the Vegetables

• Boil the potatoes, cauliflower, green peas, and bell pepper in water until soft and tender. Drain the water and mash the vegetables together until smooth. Set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Bhaji

• Heat 1 tbsp oil and 1 tbsp butter in a pan over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and allow them to crackle.
• Add chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
• Add the ginger-garlic paste and slit green chili. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the raw smell disappears.
• Add chopped tomatoes and cook until they become soft and start releasing oil.
• Stir in turmeric powder, red chili powder, and Pav Bhaji masala. Mix well and let the spices cook for a minute.
• Add the mashed vegetables to the pan and mix thoroughly with the spice base. Add salt to taste.
• Adjust the consistency by adding a little water if needed. Let the bhaji simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally to avoid sticking.

Step 3: Toast the Pav

• While the bhaji simmers, heat a tawa or flat pan. Add butter and toast the pav buns until golden and crispy on both sides.

Step 4: Serve Hot

• Once the bhaji is cooked, add 1 tbsp of butter on top, and garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves.
• Serve the bhaji hot with butter-toasted pav, chopped onions, and lemon wedges on the side.

Notes

• Use fresh butter for a richer, more authentic taste.
• Mash the vegetables well to achieve a smooth consistency, as this gives the bhaji its signature texture.
• Adjust the spice level to your taste by adding more or less Pav Bhaji masala or chili powder.
• For an extra indulgent version, you can top the bhaji with a dollop of butter before serving!

Serving Suggestions for Pav Bhaji

It is best enjoyed when served hot and fresh, with a few classic accompaniments that elevate its flavors to the next level. Here’s how to serve it for an authentic Mumbai street food experience:

1. Butter-Toasted Pav Buns: The soft, fluffy pav buns are traditionally slathered with butter and toasted to golden perfection. Serve them warm and crisp, as they provide the perfect contrast to the rich and spicy bhaji.
2. Chopped Onions and Lemon Wedges: Add finely chopped onions on the side for a crunchy bite. A squeeze of lemon juice over the bhaji before eating adds a burst of tanginess, balancing the spicy flavors.
3. Fresh Coriander Garnish: Sprinkle freshly chopped coriander leaves over the bhaji for a pop of color and a refreshing herbal note.
4. Extra Butter for Indulgence: For a more authentic street-style experience, place a small dollop of butter on the bhaji just before serving. The melted butter adds a rich, indulgent flavor that complements the spices.
5. Accompaniments: You can also pair with a refreshing side like cucumber salad or a cooling yogurt-based dip (raita) to balance out the spice.

By serving with these classic additions, you can recreate the vibrant flavors of Mumbai’s street food scene right in your own home.

With this easy-to-follow recipe, you can now enjoy the authentic taste of Mumbai’s favorite street food right in your kitchen. Whether it’s a cozy dinner, a weekend gathering, or a casual snack, Pav Bhaji is sure to delight everyone at the table.

You can also try Poha, Samosa, Aloo Paratha for quick snacks.

So, gather your ingredients, fire up your stove, and embark on this delicious adventure. Don’t forget to share your creations and experiences with us! Your kitchen is now the gateway to the bustling streets of Mumbai—enjoy every moment and every mouthful!

Happy Cooking, Recipe Rahasya.

FAQS About Pav Bhaji

What vegetables are used in Pav Bhaji?

The traditional bhaji includes a mix of vegetables such as potatoes, tomatoes, peas, bell peppers, and cauliflower. You can customize the recipe by adding other veggies like carrots or beans based on your preference.

How spicy is Pav Bhaji?

The spice level can vary based on personal preference. The dish typically includes green chilies and red chili powder, making it moderately spicy. You can adjust the amount of spices to suit your taste.

Can I make Pav Bhaji in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the bhaji ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat it before serving. However, it’s best to toast the pav just before serving to maintain their crispness.

Is Pav Bhaji vegetarian?

Absolutely! Pav Bhaji is a vegetarian dish made primarily from vegetables, making it a perfect option for vegetarians and vegans. Just ensure the butter used for the pav is dairy-free if you’re vegan.

What can I serve with Pav Bhaji?

Pav Bhaji is best enjoyed with finely chopped onions, lemon wedges, and a sprinkle of fresh coriander. You can also serve it with a side of cucumber salad or raita for a refreshing contrast.

How can I make Pav Bhaji healthier?

To make a healthier version of Pav Bhaji, you can reduce the amount of butter, use whole wheat pav instead of white buns, and increase the proportion of vegetables. You can also add more fiber-rich ingredients like peas and carrots.

Can I freeze Pav Bhaji?

Yes, you can freeze Pav Bhaji. Store it in an airtight container and it will last up to a month. Thaw and reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.