Pao Bhajji - Indian Street Food

Pav Bhaji originated in the state of Maharashtra, India, and has become immensely popular across the country. It is a beloved street food dish that is known for its vibrant flavors and the combination of soft bread rolls and a spicy vegetable curry.

The preparation of Pav Bhaji typically involves two main components: the bhaji (vegetable curry) and the pav (bread rolls).

The bhaji is made by boiling and mashing a variety of vegetables such as potatoes, cauliflower, peas, carrots, and bell peppers. Each vegetable adds its unique flavor and texture to the dish. Sometimes, additional vegetables like beans and tomatoes are also included. The vegetables are cooked until they become tender and are then mashed or coarsely pureed.

In a large flat griddle or a shallow pan, butter or oil is heated. Finely chopped onions are sautéed until they turn translucent and slightly golden. Then, minced garlic and ginger are added, imparting their aromatic flavors to the dish.

Next, a blend of spices is added to the pan. This typically includes red chili powder (for heat), turmeric powder (for color), cumin powder, coriander powder, and garam masala (a spice blend). These spices lend a robust and flavorful profile to the bhaji. The mixture is cooked for a few minutes to allow the spices to infuse into the onions and oil.

Now, the mashed vegetables are added to the pan, and everything is thoroughly mixed together. The bhaji is cooked on medium heat, allowing the flavors to meld and intensify. Some recipes call for the addition of a dollop of butter on top of the bhaji, which adds richness and enhances the taste.

While the bhaji is cooking, the pav (bread rolls) are prepared. The pav is a soft and fluffy bread roll similar to a dinner roll or bun. The rolls are typically sliced in half horizontally and toasted on a griddle with butter. This toasting process adds a slight crispness to the outside of the pav while keeping the inside soft.

Once the bhaji is ready and the pav is toasted, the dish is assembled for serving. A generous spoonful of bhaji is placed on a plate, accompanied by a portion of buttered and toasted pav rolls. Some people prefer to dip the pav in the bhaji, while others choose to spread the bhaji on the pav. It is common to garnish the dish with finely chopped onions, fresh cilantro leaves, and a squeeze of lime or lemon juice. These toppings add freshness and a tangy twist to the dish.

Pav Bhaji is enjoyed as a hearty and satisfying meal. It is often served with additional sides like a lemon wedge, pickles, or a side salad. The combination of the flavorful and spicy vegetable bhaji with the soft and buttery pav rolls creates a delightful culinary experience that is loved by people of all ages.