10 Mouth-Watering Pav Bhaji Recipes to Try at Home

Pav Bhaji is a popular street food dish in India, especially in the state of Maharashtra. It consists of a spiced vegetable mash served with buttered bread rolls. While it is commonly enjoyed at food stalls and restaurants, making Pav Bhaji at home can be a rewarding experience. Here are 10 mouth-watering Pav Bhaji recipes to try at home:

Classic Pav Bhaji Recipe:

Ingredients: Potatoes, cauliflower, peas, onions, tomatoes, bell peppers, Pav Bhaji masala, butter, pav buns.
Instructions: Boil and mash the vegetables, sauté onions, tomatoes, and bell peppers, add Pav Bhaji masala and mashed vegetables, cook until well combined, serve with buttered buns.

Cheese Pav Bhaji Recipe:

Ingredients: Same as classic Pav Bhaji with the addition of grated cheese.
Instructions: Prepare the Pav Bhaji as usual, sprinkle grated cheese on top before serving for a cheesy twist.

Paneer Pav Bhaji Recipe:

Ingredients: Same as classic Pav Bhaji with the addition of crumbled paneer (Indian cottage cheese).
Instructions: Cook the Pav Bhaji and mix in crumbled paneer before serving for a creamy and rich variation.

Jain Pav Bhaji Recipe:

Ingredients: Exclude potatoes, onions, and garlic. Use raw bananas and asafoetida for flavor.
Instructions: Follow the classic recipe, replacing restricted ingredients with suitable alternatives for a Jain-friendly version.

Butter Pav Bhaji Recipe:

Ingredients: Classic Pav Bhaji ingredients with extra butter for a rich flavor.
Instructions: Enhance the richness by adding more butter while cooking and serving the Pav Bhaji with generously buttered buns.

Mumbai Pav Bhaji Recipe:

Ingredients: Follow the classic recipe using authentic Mumbai Pav Bhaji masala.
Instructions: The key to this recipe is the use of Mumbai Pav Bhaji masala for an authentic taste reminiscent of the bustling streets of Mumbai.

Tawa Pav Bhaji Recipe:

Ingredients: Classic Pav Bhaji ingredients cooked on a flat griddle (tawa) for a smoky flavor.
Instructions: Instead of a regular pot, cook the Pav Bhaji on a tawa to infuse a unique smoky essence to the dish.

Khada Pav Bhaji Recipe:

Ingredients: Grated vegetables like carrots, cabbage, and beetroot, along with peas and capsicum.
Instructions: Rather than mashing the vegetables completely, keep them chunky for a more textured Pav Bhaji experience.

Spinach Pav Bhaji Recipe:

Ingredients: Blend spinach with tomatoes and onions for the base, then add mixed vegetables and Pav Bhaji masala.
Instructions: Incorporate the goodness of spinach into the Pav Bhaji by using it as the base for a nutritious twist on the classic recipe.

Street-Style Pav Bhaji Recipe:

Ingredients: Pav Bhaji masala, loads of butter, and generous toppings of onions, coriander, and a squeeze of lemon.
Instructions: Capture the essence of street-style Pav Bhaji by generously topping the dish with onions, coriander, and a tangy squeeze of lemon.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Pav Bhaji:

Can I make Pav Bhaji without butter?
Yes, you can make Pav Bhaji with minimal or no butter for a healthier version. You can use oil or ghee as a substitute.
Is Pav Bhaji gluten-free?
The traditional Pav Bhaji is gluten-free, but you need to ensure that the pav buns you serve with it are gluten-free as well.
Can I make Pav Bhaji without onions and garlic?
Yes, you can omit onions and garlic in your Pav Bhaji recipe to suit dietary restrictions or preferences without compromising too much on flavor.
What can I serve with Pav Bhaji other than pav buns?
Pav Bhaji pairs well with toasted bread, naan, roti, or even rice. You can experiment with different accompaniments for a unique serving style.
How to make Pav Bhaji spicier?
To make your Pav Bhaji spicier, you can increase the quantity of red chili powder, green chilies, or Pav Bhaji masala according to your preference for heat.
Can I make Pav Bhaji in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the Pav Bhaji masala in advance and refrigerate it. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the masala, add vegetables, and cook fresh for best results.
Is Pav Bhaji a healthy dish?
While Pav Bhaji is nutritious due to the variety of vegetables used, the addition of butter or ghee may increase the calorie content. You can make it healthier by using less fat and incorporating more vegetables.
Can I freeze Pav Bhaji for later use?
Pav Bhaji can be frozen for up to a month. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. Thaw and reheat on the stove when ready to consume.
What is the origin of Pav Bhaji?
Pav Bhaji originated as a quick lunch dish for textile mill workers in Mumbai. It has now evolved into a beloved street food enjoyed by people of all ages across India.
How can I customize my Pav Bhaji recipe?
You can customize your Pav Bhaji with additional ingredients like mushrooms, corn, or beans. Experiment with different spices, herbs, or even meat options to create a unique version to suit your taste preferences.