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Pav Bhaji Recipe: Easy Mumbai Street Style | Lockdown Special

Introduction

During the lockdown, many of us turned to the kitchen for comfort and creativity, and what better dish to try than the iconic Pav Bhaji? This Mumbai street food classic is a delightful blend of mashed vegetables cooked in spicy tomato gravy, paired with buttery pav (bread rolls). It’s not only easy to prepare but also incredibly satisfying. Let’s dive into this flavorful world and recreate a street-style Pav Bhaji that will make your taste buds dance!

Ingredients

For the Bhaji:

• Mixed Vegetables:
  • 1 cup cauliflower, finely chopped
  • 1 cup potatoes, boiled and mashed
  • 1 cup green peas (fresh or frozen)
  • 1 cup capsicum (bell pepper), finely chopped
  • 1 medium carrot, finely chopped
• Onion: 1 large, finely chopped
• Tomatoes: 2 large, pureed
• Garlic: 4-5 cloves, minced
• Ginger: 1-inch piece, grated
• Green Chilies: 1-2, finely chopped (adjust to your spice preference)
• Pav Bhaji Masala: 2 tablespoons (available in stores or homemade)
• Turmeric Powder: 1/2 teaspoon
• Red Chili Powder: 1 teaspoon (adjust as needed)
• Salt: to taste
• Butter: 3-4 tablespoons
• Fresh Coriander: for garnish
• Lemon Wedges: for serving

For the Pav:

• Pav Breads: 8-10
• Butter: for toasting

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Bhaji

1. Boil the Vegetables: In a large pot, add water and bring it to a boil. Add chopped cauliflower, peas, and carrots. Cook until tender, then drain and set aside.

2. Sauté the Base: In a heavy-bottomed pan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter on medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until translucent. Then add ginger, garlic, and green chilies, cooking for a couple more minutes until fragrant.

3. Add Tomato Puree: Incorporate the tomato puree into the mixture. Cook until the oil separates from the tomatoes, about 5-7 minutes.

4. Spice it Up: Sprinkle in the turmeric, red chili powder, and pav bhaji masala. Stir well for another minute to coat the vegetables with the spices.

5. Combine Vegetables: Add the boiled mixed vegetables and mashed potatoes to the pan. Use a potato masher to blend everything together, creating a smooth, thick mixture. Add salt to taste and adjust spices if needed. Let it simmer for 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

6. Finish with Butter and Coriander: Add the remaining butter and chopped coriander. Let it melt into the bhaji for a rich flavor.

Step 2: Toast the Pav

1. Heat Butter: In a separate pan or griddle, add butter and let it melt on medium heat.

2. Toast the Pav: Place the pav breads on the pan, cut-side down, until they become golden and crispy. Flip them to toast the other side for a minute.

Step 3: Serve

1. Plating: Serve the hot bhaji in a bowl, garnished with chopped coriander and a dollop of butter on top.

2. Accompaniments: Pair with the toasted pav, onion slices, and lemon wedges.

Tips and Variations

• Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add or substitute vegetables such as zucchini or green beans based on availability and preference.
• Make it Extra Creamy: For an indulgent twist, add a splash of cream or a dollop of yogurt when serving.
• Spice Level: Adjust the chili powder or pav bhaji masala according to your spice tolerance.

Conclusion

Pav Bhaji is a beloved dish that brings the taste of Mumbai’s bustling streets right to your kitchen. Whether you’re gearing up for a cozy family dinner or craving a midnight snack, this recipe is sure to satisfy. Enjoy the essence of street food magic, and remember, each bite is a delicious taste of nostalgia. Happy cooking!