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Street Style Pav Bhaji Recipe

Pav Bhaji is an iconic street food dish that originates from Mumbai, India. Recognized for its vibrant flavors and hearty texture, it’s a favorite among locals and visitors alike. This dish combines buttery, toasted pav (bread rolls) with a spicy vegetable mash known as bhaji. While it’s often enjoyed by the roadside, making it at home can be just as delightful. Here’s a simple yet authentic recipe for Street Style Pav Bhaji that will transport you to the bustling streets of Mumbai.

Ingredients

For the Bhaji:

• Mixed vegetables: 2 cups (potatoes, carrots, peas, bell peppers, and cauliflower)
• Onion: 1 large, finely chopped
• Tomatoes: 2 medium, pureed
• Green chilies: 2, finely chopped (adjust to taste)
• Ginger-garlic paste: 1 tablespoon
• Pav Bhaji masala: 2 tablespoons (available in Indian grocery stores)
• Turmeric powder: ½ teaspoon
• Red chili powder: 1 teaspoon (adjust to taste)
• Butter: 3-4 tablespoons (plus more for toasting pav)
• Salt: to taste
• Coriander leaves: for garnish
• Lemon wedges: for serving

For the Pav:

• Pav bread: 6-8 soft rolls
• Butter: for toasting

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

1. Boil and Mash: Start by boiling the mixed vegetables until they are soft. This usually takes about 10-15 minutes. Drain and mash the vegetables coarsely using a potato masher.

Step 2: Make the Bhaji

1. Sauté Onions: In a large pan, heat 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onions and sauté until they turn translucent. This enhances the flavor and adds sweetness.
2. Add Spices: Stir in the ginger-garlic paste and green chilies, and sauté for another minute until fragrant. Then add the pureed tomatoes. Cook until the mixture reduces and the oil starts to separate from the masala.
3. Incorporate Mashed Vegetables: Add the mashed vegetables to the pan. Mix well and cook for a few minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
4. Season: Sprinkle in the pav bhaji masala, turmeric powder, red chili powder, and salt. Combine well, adding a splash of water if needed for consistency. Let it simmer for about 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Finish with Butter: Add the remaining butter and mix it into the bhaji for a rich, creamy texture. Adjust seasoning to taste.

Step 3: Toast the Pav

1. Butter the Pav: In a separate pan, melt some butter over medium heat. Slice the pav rolls horizontally and toast them on the pan until golden brown and crisp. Make sure both sides are evenly toasted.

Step 4: Serve

1. Plating: Serve the hot bhaji in a bowl, garnished with chopped coriander leaves. Accompany with the toasted pav rolls, lemon wedges, and some thinly sliced onions on the side.

Tips for the Perfect Pav Bhaji:

• Veggie Variety: Feel free to add or substitute vegetables based on personal preferences or seasonal availability.
• Pav Bhaji Masala: For the best flavor, use homemade pav bhaji masala if you have it, or choose a high-quality store brand.
• Butter: Don’t shy away from using generous amounts of butter for that authentic street-style taste.
• Toppings: Additional toppings such as a dollop of butter, chopped onions, and coriander can elevate the dish further.

Conclusion

Pav Bhaji is more than just a meal; it’s an experience filled with bold flavors and delightful textures. This street-style recipe captures the lively spirit of Mumbai’s street food culture, making it perfect for gatherings or a cozy family dinner. So fire up your stove, gather your ingredients, and enjoy a plate of this vibrant, mouth-watering dish!