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Pav Bhaji Masala
West Indian • All Foods
How to Make Pav Bhaji Masala (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Pav Bhaji Masala is a beloved street food snack that hails from the bustling streets of Mumbai, West India. This vibrant vegetarian dish combines a medley of mashed vegetables simmered in a tangy, aromatic tomato gravy, generously seasoned with a special blend of pav bhaji masala. Served with lightly toasted 'pav' (soft bread rolls), it is an iconic comfort food enjoyed by all age groups. The popularity of Pav Bhaji Masala has grown beyond Maharashtra, now gracing kitchens and festivals across India. The irresistible aroma of spices, the colorful appearance, and the blend of flavors make Pav Bhaji Masala a treat for the senses. Traditionally enjoyed at gatherings, family get-togethers, and popular during festivals like Ganesh Chaturthi and Diwali, this dish is both hearty and satisfying. By focusing on minimal oil, fresh vegetables, and whole spices, this version keeps it authentic yet health-conscious, making it perfect for calorie trackers and fitness enthusiasts alike.
Ingredients(for 2 medium pav with 1 cup bhaji)
- 2 medium Potatoes (aloo)
- 1 cup Cauliflower (gobi, chopped)
- 1/2 cup Green peas (matar, fresh or frozen)
- 1/2 cup Carrot (gajar, chopped)
- 1/2 cup Capsicum (shimla mirch, finely chopped)
- 1 medium Onion (pyaaz, finely chopped)
- 2 medium Tomatoes (tamatar, finely chopped)
- 2 tsp Pav bhaji masala (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 tsp Red chilli powder (lal mirch)
- 1/4 tsp Turmeric powder (haldi)
- to taste Salt (namak)
- 1 tbsp Oil (preferably mustard or vegetable oil)
- 1 tsp Butter (makhan, optional for serving) - optional
- 2 tbsp Fresh coriander (hara dhania, finely chopped)
- 2 Lemon wedges (nimbu) - optional
- 4 pieces Pav (Indian bread rolls, whole wheat preferred)
Instructions
- 1
Boil potatoes, cauliflower, green peas, and carrots until soft. Drain and mash well using a masher or the back of a spoon.
7 minutes
Mash veggies while hot for a smoother texture.
- 2
Heat oil in a large tawa or deep pan. Add chopped onions and sauté until translucent.
3 minutes
Cook onions on medium flame for natural sweetness.
- 3
Add chopped capsicum and sauté for 2 minutes. Stir in the tomatoes and cook until they turn soft and mushy.
5 minutes
Cover the pan to soften tomatoes faster.
- 4
Mix in turmeric, red chilli powder, and pav bhaji masala. Sauté the spices until aromatic.
2 minutes
Dry-roasting spices enhances flavor.
Why This Dish is Healthy
This healthy Pav Bhaji recipe is a smart choice for calorie-conscious eaters. It uses a variety of fresh, seasonal vegetables, reduces saturated fat by limiting butter, and incorporates whole wheat pav for additional fiber. With balanced macros, low cholesterol, and antioxidant-rich ingredients, this dish supports immunity and digestion while keeping you full and satisfied.
Pav Bhaji Masala is rich in dietary fiber, vitamins A and C from vegetables like carrots, peas, and capsicum. Potatoes and cauliflower offer energy and essential minerals such as potassium and magnesium. Using minimal oil and opting for whole wheat pav makes this dish lighter on calories, while still providing ample protein and complex carbohydrates for sustained energy. The addition of spices like turmeric and coriander boosts anti-inflammatory properties.
Pro Tips
- 💡Tip 1: Prepare pav bhaji masala at home for a fresher, more aromatic flavor.
- 💡Tip 2: Mash vegetables thoroughly for the classic Mumbai street-style texture.
- 💡Tip 3: Add a pinch of kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves) for enhanced aroma.
Storage & Serving
Store leftover bhaji in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving. Pav is best consumed fresh but can be lightly toasted before reuse.
Best served: Breakfast or Lunch
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per 100g |
|---|---|
| Energy | 320.0 kcal |
