Pav Bhaji, A Buttery Vegetable Curry with Buttered Pav Rolls

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cooking Time: 30 minutes Serves: 4

Ingredients

For the Bhaji (Vegetable Curry)

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, finely chopped
• 1 medium-sized carrot, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup green peas
• 2 medium-sized tomatoes, finely chopped
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1-inch piece of ginger, grated
• 2 teaspoons pav bhaji masala
• 1 teaspoon red chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• Salt to taste
• Water (as needed)
• Fresh coriander leaves, chopped (for garnish)

For the Pav

• 8 pav (bread rolls)
• Butter for toasting the pav

Instructions

For the Bhaji (Vegetable Curry)

1. Heat butter in a large pan or kadai over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onions and sauté until they turn translucent.
2. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger. Sauté for a minute until the raw aroma disappears.
3. Add the finely chopped bell pepper, carrot, and green peas. Mix well and cook for about 5 minutes until the vegetables soften.
4. Add the finely chopped tomatoes to the pan. Cook until they become mushy and blend well with the vegetables.
5. Add pav bhaji masala, red chili powder, turmeric powder, and salt. Mix everything together, ensuring that the spices coat the vegetables evenly.
6. Add a little water to the pan, cover it, and simmer for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld together and the vegetables to become tender.
7. Mash the cooked vegetables using a potato masher or the back of a spoon, until you get a smooth and creamy consistency. Add more water if needed to achieve the desired consistency.
8. Cook the bhaji for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to develop. Adjust the seasoning according to your taste.

For the Pav

1. Slice each pav horizontally, but not all the way through.
2. Heat a pan or griddle over medium heat. Spread some butter on the cut sides of the pav.
3. Place the pav on the pan, buttered side down, and toast until lightly golden and crispy.

To Serve

1. Transfer the hot and buttery Pav Bhaji to a serving plate.
2. Garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves.
3. Serve the Pav Bhaji with the toasted pav on the side.
4. Squeeze a bit of lemon juice over the bhaji for added tanginess, if desired.

Enjoy the rich and flavorful Pav Bhaji, a classic Indian street food favorite that brings together a medley of vegetables and aromatic spices. The buttery curry, when paired with the buttered and toasted pav, creates a delectable combination that will satisfy your cravings. It’s a perfect dish to enjoy with family and friends, and it’s sure to be a hit at any gathering or mealtime.