Homemade Pav Bhaji

A Flavourful Indian Street Food Classic

Welcome to our kitchen, where today we’re bringing a beloved Indian street food right to your home: Pav Bhaji! This vibrant and spicy vegetable mash served with buttered pav (bread rolls) is a hit at any gathering. It’s comforting, easy to make, and bursting with flavours. Let’s dive into the recipe!

Ingredients:

For the Bhaji (Vegetable Mash):

• 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 cup cauliflower florets
• 1 cup peas (fresh or frozen)
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 1 bell pepper (capsicum), finely chopped
• 2 large tomatoes, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
• 2 green chilies, slit (adjust to taste)
• 2 tablespoons Pav Bhaji masala (available in Indian stores or homemade)
• 1 teaspoon red chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 2 tablespoons butter or oil
• Salt to taste
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
• Lemon wedges (for serving)

For the Pav (Bread Rolls):

• 8-10 pav buns (or any soft bread rolls)
• 2 tablespoons butter

Instructions:

1. Cook the Vegetables:

1. In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add the diced potatoes, cauliflower, and peas. Cook until the vegetables are tender (about 10-15 minutes). Drain and set aside.
2. Mash the cooked vegetables using a potato masher or fork. Set aside.

2. Prepare the Bhaji Base:

1. Heat butter or oil in a large pan over medium heat.
2. Add cumin seeds and let them sizzle for a few seconds.
3. Add the chopped onions and green chilies. Sauté until the onions turn golden brown.
4. Stir in the ginger-garlic paste and cook for 1-2 minutes until the raw smell disappears.
5. Add the chopped bell pepper and cook for another 3-4 minutes.

3. Add Tomatoes and Spices:

1. Stir in the chopped tomatoes and cook until they soften and blend into the mixture (about 5 minutes).
2. Add the Pav Bhaji masala, red chili powder, turmeric powder, and salt. Mix well and cook for another 2 minutes.

4. Combine with Mashed Vegetables:

1. Add the mashed vegetables to the pan. Mix everything thoroughly and cook for 5-7 minutes, letting the flavours meld together. If the bhaji is too thick, you can add a little water to reach your desired consistency.
2. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.

5. Finish with Butter:

1. Stir in a tablespoon of butter and let it melt into the bhaji. Garnish with fresh cilantro.

6. Prepare the Pav:

1. Heat a griddle or skillet over medium heat.
2. Spread butter on each pav bun and place them on the griddle. Toast until golden brown and crispy on both sides.

Serving:

Serve the hot bhaji topped with a dollop of butter, accompanied by toasted pav buns. Garnish with extra chopped cilantro and a wedge of lemon for a zesty kick. You can also serve it with a side of sliced onions and chopped tomatoes for added freshness.

Tips:

• Adjust the spice levels according to your preference. If you like it extra spicy, add more green chilies or red chili powder or with NE CRAFTERS Bhut Jolokia Chilli Oil.
• For an authentic touch, you can also add a teaspoon of amchur (dry mango powder) to the bhaji for a tangy flavor.

Enjoy your homemade Pav Bhaji, a dish that’s not just a meal but an experience of Indian street food magic. Perfect for a hearty lunch, dinner, or even a festive gathering. Bon appétit!

• -NE CRAFTERS