Vada pav

Vada Pav is a popular vegetarian fast food dish native to the Indian state of Maharashtra. It consists of a deep-fried potato dumpling placed inside a bread bun (pav) sliced almost in half through the middle. It is generally accompanied by one or more chutneys and a green chili pepper.

History

The dish originated in the streets of Mumbai, Maharashtra. It was first prepared by snack vendor Ashok Vaidya outside Dadar station in 1966. Vada Pav was initially created to provide a cheap and quick nourishment to people of all classes. The dish has since become synonymous with the culture of Maharashtra, and particularly Mumbai.

Preparation

The preparation of Vada Pav involves several steps. The 'vada' is made from boiled potatoes, mashed and seasoned with spices, which are then coated in a batter of gram flour and deep-fried. The 'pav' is a type of Indian bread roll, which is sliced through the middle and spread with chutney. The vada is then placed inside the pav, and the dish is typically served with a side of spicy green chilies.

Variations

There are several variations of Vada Pav, such as the Cheese Vada Pav, Schezwan Vada Pav, and Jain Vada Pav, which is made without onions and garlic. Each variation has its own unique taste and is popular in different regions of Maharashtra.

Cultural Significance

Vada Pav is not just a popular snack, but also a significant part of the cultural identity of Maharashtra. It is often referred to as the "Indian Burger" and is a staple street food in Mumbai. The dish has also been featured in various Bollywood films, further cementing its status as a cultural icon.

See Also

• Pav Bhaji
• Bhelpuri
• Samosa

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