Pav bhaji

Pav Bhaji is a popular Indian street food that originated in the Maharashtrian region. It consists of a thick, spicy vegetable curry (bhaji) served with a soft bread roll (pav).

History

The dish was created in the mid-19th century in Mumbai, Maharashtra. It was initially prepared as a quick lunchtime dish for textile mill workers. Over time, it gained popularity and became a beloved street food across India.

Preparation

The bhaji is a mix of mashed vegetables cooked with a special blend of spices known as pav bhaji masala. The vegetables used typically include potatoes, tomatoes, onions, peas, and bell peppers. The pav is a type of Indian bread roll, which is usually buttered on all sides and lightly toasted on a pan before serving.

Variations

There are several variations of pav bhaji, including cheese pav bhaji, paneer pav bhaji, and jain pav bhaji. The cheese pav bhaji includes grated cheese on top of the bhaji, while the paneer pav bhaji includes chunks of paneer (Indian cottage cheese). The jain pav bhaji is a version made without onions and garlic, catering to the dietary restrictions of the Jain community.

Serving

Pav bhaji is typically served with a side of chopped onions and a slice of lemon. The pav is usually buttered and served warm. The bhaji is garnished with fresh coriander and a dollop of butter.

See Also

• Indian cuisine
• Street food
• Maharashtra
• Mumbai