" How to Make Pav Bhaji" by Shayan K

 

The first thing you’re probably thinking after reading the title is, “What in the world is Pav Bhaji?” “Pav” just refers to the bread, and “bhaji” refers to the vegetables that are cooked with spice. Trust me, I know, those are two very funny words that you have probably never even heard of. Although those two words literally translate to, bread and vegetables, it is way more delicious and appealing than what it seems like. Pav Bhaji is a very famous street food in India. I clearly remember seeing people in little carts selling this dish on almost every street when I visited India for the second time. The great thing about Pav Bhaji is that it is a vegetarian dish, which means a larger amount of people are able to appreciate this dish and not be restricted by any strict diets. In addition, you can’t really feel guilty by eating this dish because like I said earlier, it’s literally spiced vegetables and bread.

Well let me go ahead and tell you that this is one of my most favorite Indian dishes out there. I am always astonished over the fact that you can create such an amazing dish by only using these very simple ingredients that are readily available. The first time I had pav bhaji is when I was about 7 or 8, and my grandmother had made it for the family. I was so opposed to trying it at first. It reminded me of those mysterious school lunches that we always saw on television that everyone hated. But after some time, she finally convinced me to try and I instantly fell in love. So I am here to share this amazing recipe with you guys as well! It is so easy!

Ingredients:

●      2 tablespoon of Butter

●     3 or 4 finely chopped tomatoes

●     ½ cup of peas

●     1 finely chopped capsicum (also called a bell pepper)

●     3 boiled and mashed potatoes

●     1 teaspoon salt

●     1 cup water

●     1 tablespoon chili powder

●     ¼ teaspoon turmeric

●     3 tablespoons of finely chopped coriander

●     1 teaspoon ginger-garlic paste

●     1 finely chopped red onion

●     Half a lemon

●     Dinner rolls or sliced bread

Directions for Bhaji (spiced vegetables):

1.    Place a saucepan on stove on medium heat.

2.   Place 1 tbsp butter, the chopped tomatoes, peas, bell peppers, and potatoes into the pan.

a.    Make sure to slowly place the ingredients on the pan.

3.   Next, add a half cup of water, cover the saucepan, and let it boil for about ten minutes.

a.    *Pro tip!!!* Periodically stir the contents!

4.   After the ten minutes have passed, mash all of the ingredients together.

a.    You can stop mashing once it reaches a smooth texture.

5.   Now you will add chili powder, turmeric, and coriander.

a.    Let this sauté for about 2-3 minutes.

6.   Place another tablespoon of butter, your ginger-garlic paste, the finely chopped onions, and squeeze your lemon into the pan.

a.    Sauté for 1-2 minutes.

b.   Also, this is where you can add your optional three drops of red food coloring (this gives it that traditional street food look, similar to what you would find in India).

7.   After adding another half cup of water, boil and mash the contents for another five minutes.

8.   Your Bhaji is now complete!

Directions for Pav:

1.        Place a griddle or a normal pan on medium-high heat.

2.   Cut your dinner rolls in half and spread butter on the inside.

a.    If you don’t have rolls, you can also use normal sliced bread!

3.   Place the butter coated bread on the griddle until it is toasted.

4.   Your Pav is now complete!

Now that is all it takes to make authentic Pav Bhaji! The proper way to eat this delicious meal is to dip your toasted bread into the Bhaji and eat it like that! Personally, I tear pieces of the bread into the bowl and eat it with a spoon, but it is totally up to you on how you want to enjoy this delicious dish from India. I really hope you enjoy this dish as it is one of my favorite things to eat!