Craving a hearty street food favorite? This Pav Bhaji Recipe delivers the classic Mumbai-style flavor with a buttery vegetable mash served alongside toasted buns. It’s the perfect mix of nostalgia and nourishment.

Whether for a cozy family dinner or a weekend snack, this vibrant, spicy, and wholesome mixed vegetable curry promises satisfaction. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies while keeping things fun and flavorful.

Ingredients

Vegetable Bhaji (Curry):

• 3 medium potatoes, peeled & chopped
• 1 cup cauliflower florets
• 1 cup chopped carrots
• 1 cup green peas (fresh/frozen)
• ⅓ cup chopped French beans
• ½ cup chopped capsicum
• 2–3 tbsp butter
• 1 tsp cumin seeds
• ½ cup chopped onions
• 2 tsp ginger–garlic paste
• 1–2 green chilies, chopped
• 2 cups chopped tomatoes
• 1 tsp turmeric powder
• 1 tsp Kashmiri red chili powder
• 2–3 tbsp pav bhaji masala
• Salt to taste
• 1–1½ cups water or vegetable stock
• 1 tsp kasuri methi
• 2 tbsp chopped coriander
• Extra butter to garnish

Pav (Buns):

• 6 pav buns or dinner rolls
• 3–4 tbsp butter
• Optional: whisked pav bhaji masala for brushing

For Serving:

• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• Lemon wedges
• Fresh coriander leaves

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the vegetables – Add potatoes, cauliflower, carrots, peas, beans into a pressure cooker with 2¼ cups water. Cook 5–6 whistles until soft.
2. Mash the veggies – Drain excess liquid, reserve stock. Lightly mash vegetables to a chunky consistency.
3. Make the masala base – Heat butter in pan, add cumin seeds, then onion. Sauté till translucent.
4. Add aromatics – Stir in ginger–garlic paste and green chilies; sauté 1 minute.
5. Tomato & spices – Add tomatoes, cook until mushy and oil separates. Then add turmeric, chili powder, and pav bhaji masala.
6. Combine with vegetables – Add mashed veggies and cooking stock. Mix thoroughly.
7. Simmer for flavor – Cook 8–10 minutes. Add water if needed. Mash more for smoother texture.
8. Finish the bhaji – Sprinkle kasuri methi, garnish with coriander and a knob of butter. Mix well.
9. Toast the pav – Split buns, brush with butter (with optional masala), and toast until golden.
10. Serve piping hot – Plate bhaji in bowl, top with butter & coriander. Serve with pav, chopped onions, and lemon wedges.

Tips and Tricks

• For How to make Pav Bhaji at home, use fresh veggies and butter generously.
• Add a splash of milk or cream for ultra-creaminess.
• To create Jain Pav Bhaji recipe no onion no garlic, skip onion and ginger–garlic; use hing and cashew paste instead.
• Don’t over-mash—keep some texture for a rustic feel.
• Make ahead? Cook the bhaji, then reheat gently. Toast pav fresh just before serving.

Nutritional Benefits

• Rich in fiber & vitamins: Potatoes, carrots, cauliflower, peas, capsicum.
• Plant-based protein: Peas add a protein boost.
• Healthy fats: Butter provides flavor and fat-soluble nutrients; use in moderation.
• Low sugar, nutrient-rich carb source: Buns offer energy; pair with salads for balance.

FAQ Section

Q1. Can I make pav bhaji without butter?
Yes, substitute oil or vegan butter. It won’t taste as rich, but still flavorful.

Q2. What’s the best side dish with pav bhaji?
Chopped onions, lemon wedges, cucumber raita, or tomato & cucumber salad work beautifully.

Q3. Is there a pressure cooker or Instant Pot version?
Yes! Pressure cook mashed veggies then sauté masala, combine and simmer. Quick and easy.

Q4. How to store leftovers?
Store bhaji in an airtight container for 2–3 days in the fridge. Toast buns fresh when serving again.

Q5. Can I make Jain Pav Bhaji (no onion garlic)?
Absolutely—omit onions/garlic, use hing, ginger, and extra spices. For creaminess, add cashew paste.

Best Side Dish with Pav Bhaji

Pair your Pav Bhaji Recipe with crunchy salad, buttery garlic bread, or even cheesy paneer cubes for a delightful meal.

Conclusion

This Pav Bhaji Recipe brings Mumbai’s signature street food into your kitchen—simple, satisfying, and utterly delicious. Loaded with vegetables, rich butter, and aromatic spices, it’s a crowd-pleaser for all ages.

Serve it up hot with toasted buns, crisp onions, and lemon for a homemade street-style experience. Visit KitchenWhisper.in for more cozy yet exciting Indian meal ideas.

Enjoy, and happy cooking!

Also Read – Crispy Cheese Pakoda Recipe