What is Pav Bhaji?
Pav Bhaji’s origins trace back to the 1850s during the industrial revolution in Mumbai. As textile mill workers toiled through long hours, they craved a quick, nutritious meal that was both affordable and satisfying. Street vendors, ever ingenious, devised Pav Bhaji to meet this demand. They mashed a medley of vegetables with a rich blend of spices and served it with buttered pav, a type of bread roll. This ingenious creation not only provided the necessary sustenance but also catered to the diverse palates of Mumbai’s working class.
What are the ingredients of Pav Bhaji?
- Potatoes – 3-4 medium, boiled and mashed
- Tomatoes – 3-4 medium, finely chopped
- Onions – 2 medium, finely chopped
- Green Bell Peppers (Capsicum) – 1 medium, finely chopped
- Green Peas – 1 cup, boiled (fresh or frozen)
- Cauliflower – 1 cup, finely chopped (optional)
- Carrots – 1 cup, finely chopped (optional)
- Butter – 3-4 tablespoons
- Oil – 2 tablespoons
- Ginger-Garlic Paste – 2 teaspoons
- Green Chilies – 2-3, finely chopped (adjust to taste)
- Pav Bhaji Masala – 2-3 tablespoons (available in Indian grocery stores or homemade)
- Turmeric Powder – 1/2 teaspoon
- Red Chili Powder – 1 teaspoon (adjust to taste)
- Salt – to taste
- Water – as needed to adjust consistency
- Fresh Lemon Juice – 1-2 tablespoons
- Fresh Coriander Leaves (Cilantro) – for garnish, finely chopped
For the Pav (Bread Rolls):
- Pav (Bread Rolls) – 8-10
- Butter – for toasting the pav
Accompaniments:
- Chopped Onions – for garnish
- Lemon Wedges – for garnish
- Fresh Coriander Leaves (Cilantro) – for garnish
- Butter – a dollop on top (optional, but recommended for authenticity and flavor)
Click here to check out the top 10 Pav Bhaji Joints in Navi Mumbai
1. Jai Maharashtra Pav Bhaji Central
Shop Number 6 Plot jay Bhavani Market, Sector 10, Nerul, Navi Mumbai
2. Sharda Pav Bhaji Centre
Nakhwa Chowk, near flyover, Sector 48-A, Seawoods, Navi Mumbai
3. RAJESH PAV BHAJI
Shop Number 7, Ekveera Darshan CHS, near Arihant Photo Studio, Sector 8, Airoli
4. Shiv Pav Bhaji
Sector 3, Ghansoli, Navi Mumbai, Maharashtra 400701
5. Navaratna Veg Restaurant
Vashi Railway Station Rd, Sector 17, Vashi, Navi Mumbai, Maharashtra 400703
6. Shree Ram Pav Bhaji
Shivaji Rd, opp. S.T. Stand, near Dwarka Hotel, Line Ali, Old Panvel, Navi Mumbai
7. Waghe’s Pav Bhaji Centre
Shivaji Rd, Old Panvel, Panvel, Navi Mumbai, Maharashtra 410206
8. Amar Fast Food & Restaurant
Satra Plaza, 19, Palm Beach Rd, next to Palm Beach Galleria Mall, Sector 19D, Vashi
9. Tirupati Dosa Centre
Plot No:15, Krushi Plaza, APMC, Sector 19, Vashi, Navi Mumbai
10. Health Juice & Fast Food
Sector 18A, Nerul, Navi Mumbai
Conclusion
Pav Bhaji, with its humble beginnings and widespread appeal, is a testament to the magic that happens when simplicity meets creativity. It’s a dish that not only fills the stomach but also warms the heart, capturing the essence of Mumbai in every bite. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or a curious traveler, a plate of Pav Bhaji is an invitation to experience the rich, vibrant flavors of one of India’s most beloved culinary traditions.
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