Pav Bhaji is a popular street food dish from India that has gained worldwide popularity for its unique combination of flavors and simplicity. This spicy and flavorful vegetable mash served with soft buttery buns, known as pav, is a favorite among people of all ages.
Preparing a delicious pav bhaji at home is easier than you might think. With a few simple ingredients and a step-by-step process, you can recreate this beloved dish in your own kitchen. Let’s dive into the recipe and make your taste buds dance with joy!
Here’s a simple pav bhaji recipe:
Ingredients:
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as potatoes, cauliflower, carrots, peas)
– 2 large onions, finely chopped
– 4 tomatoes, finely chopped
– 1 green bell pepper, finely chopped
– 4 tablespoons butter
– 2 tablespoons oil
– 2 teaspoons pav bhaji masala
– 1 teaspoon red chili powder
– 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
– Salt to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
– Lemon wedges for serving
– Pav (buns) – 8 pieces
Instructions:
1. Start by boiling the mixed vegetables in a pressure cooker or a pot until they are soft and cooked through. Once cooked, drain the water and set aside.
2. In a large pan, heat the butter and oil over medium heat. Add the cumin seeds and let them splutter.
3. Add the finely chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown.
4. Now, add the finely chopped tomatoes and cook until they become soft and mushy. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking to the pan.
5. Once the tomatoes are well cooked, add the chopped bell pepper and cook for a few more minutes until it becomes tender.
6. Add the pav bhaji masala, red chili powder, turmeric powder, and salt to the pan. Stir well to combine all the spices with the vegetables.
7. Next, add the boiled and mashed vegetables to the pan. Using a potato masher or the back of a spoon, mash the vegetables until they are well blended with the spices.
8. Mix everything together and let the pav bhaji simmer on low heat for 10-15 minutes. This allows all the flavors to blend together, creating a rich and delicious taste.
9. While the pav bhaji is simmering, heat a griddle or tawa and lightly toast the pav buns with some butter until they turn golden brown. Set aside.
10. Garnish the pav bhaji with freshly chopped cilantro leaves for an extra burst of freshness.
11. Serve the hot pav bhaji with the toasted buns (pav), a side of chopped onions, and lemon wedges. Squeeze some lemon juice on top for a tangy kick.
Pav bhaji is a versatile dish, and you can also customize it by adding additional toppings and garnishes. Some popular choices include grated cheese, chopped green chilies, and a dollop of butter on top.
This simple pav bhaji recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering with friends and family. The combination of spicy vegetable curry and soft buttery buns is sure to leave everyone satisfied and asking for more.
So, put on your apron and get ready to recreate the magic of pav bhaji right in your own kitchen. It’s a delightful dish that brings people together and captures the essence of Indian street food culture. Enjoy!