Introduction
Pav Bhaji is a vibrant and flavorful dish from India, renowned for its unique blend of spices and textures. This dish consists of a hearty vegetable mash served alongside soft, buttered bread rolls known as pav. Perfect as a snack or a main course, Pav Bhaji brings the essence of Indian street food right to your table.
Ingredients
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (potatoes, peas, carrots, bell peppers)
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 tomatoes, chopped
- 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
- 2-3 green chilies, chopped
- 2 teaspoons Pav Bhaji masala
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Salt to taste
- Fresh coriander leaves, chopped (for garnish)
- Pav (bread rolls)
Instructions
-
Prep the Vegetables:
- Start by peeling and chopping the potatoes, carrots, and bell peppers into small pieces. Cook them in boiling water for about 10-15 minutes until they are tender. Add the peas in the last few minutes of cooking. Drain and set aside.
-
Sauté Aromatics:
- In a large, heavy-bottomed pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown, ensuring they caramelize slightly for a richer flavor.
-
Add Spices and Tomatoes:
- Stir in the ginger-garlic paste and chopped green chilies. Sauté for a minute until fragrant. Add the chopped tomatoes, cooking until they break down and become mushy, which should take about 5-7 minutes.
-
Combine with Mashed Vegetables:
- Once the tomatoes are softened, add the boiled and mashed vegetables to the pan. Mix well, ensuring the spices and aromatics are thoroughly combined with the vegetables.
-
Season and Simmer:
- Sprinkle in the Pav Bhaji masala, red chili powder, turmeric powder, and salt. Stir to combine and cook for an additional 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Mash the mixture lightly with a potato masher for a smoother consistency, but leave some chunks for texture.
-
Final Touches:
- Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Garnish with chopped coriander leaves before serving.
-
Prepare the Pav:
- Slice the pav rolls in half and toast them in a separate pan with a little butter until golden and crisp.
Health Notes
- While Pav Bhaji is delicious, it is essential to moderate the use of butter and salt for a healthier version. Opt for whole-grain pav to increase fiber content.
How to Enjoy
- Serve Pav Bhaji hot with a dollop of butter on top, along with sliced onions, lemon wedges, and additional coriander for freshness.
Tips
- For an extra burst of flavor, grill the pav rolls with a little butter until crispy before serving.
