The Best Homemade Pav Bhaji Recipe
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
Making Pav Bhaji at home is a fun and rewarding experience that brings the flavors of Mumbai’s streets right to your kitchen. You’ll love how it’s both simple and bursting with flavor.
- Customizable Spice Level: You can make it as mild or spicy as you like, perfect for every taste bud.
- Healthy and Balanced: Packed with veggies, it’s a filling meal that doesn’t skimp on nutrition.
- Crowd-Pleasing: Whether it’s a family dinner or a party, this dish always wins hearts.
Recipe

Pav Bhaji, a popular Indian street food, is a spicy and flavorful vegetable mash served with buttered bread rolls. This dish originates from Maharashtra and has become a favorite across India due to its rich taste and simplicity.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (potatoes, carrots, peas, cauliflower, beans)
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 tomatoes, finely chopped
- 1 capsicum (green bell pepper), finely chopped
- 3-4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1-inch ginger, minced
- 2-3 green chilies, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 2 tablespoons pav bhaji masala
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder
- Salt to taste
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon oil
- Fresh coriander leaves, chopped
- Lemon wedges, for serving
- Pav (bread rolls), for serving
Instructions:
- Boil the mixed vegetables until tender. Mash them well and set aside.
- Heat oil and butter in a pan. Add onions and sauté until golden brown.
- Add ginger, garlic, and green chilies. Sauté for a minute.
- Add tomatoes and cook until they turn soft and mushy.
- Stir in capsicum and cook for 2-3 minutes.
- Add turmeric powder, pav bhaji masala, red chili powder, and salt. Mix well.
- Add the mashed vegetables and mix thoroughly. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add water as needed to adjust the consistency. Simmer for 2-3 minutes.
- Garnish with chopped coriander leaves.
- Serve hot with buttered pav and lemon wedges.
Notes:
- Adjust spices according to taste.
- Use freshly prepared pav bhaji masala for best flavor.
Equipment:
- Pressure cooker or pot for boiling vegetables
- Large pan or skillet
Time:
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Cuisine:
Indian
Serving:
4-6 people
Nutrition
Pav Bhaji is a flavorful Indian street food dish packed with vegetables and spices. Here is the nutritional information for one serving of Pav Bhaji.
| Nutrient | Amount per serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 45 g |
| Protein | 10 g |
| Fat | 15 g |
| Fiber | 6 g |
| Sodium | 850 mg |
What To Serve With It
I love serving my homemade pav bhaji with crispy onion rings or a fresh cucumber salad—they add a nice crunch to every bite. A cold glass of masala chaas or a sweet mango lassi balances the spices perfectly, making the meal even more satisfying. Trust me, these pairings turn a simple dish into something extra special.
Side Dishes Options
Though pav bhaji is delicious on its own, pairing it with the right sides can turn a simple meal into something special. I love serving it with crispy onion pakoras or a tangy mango pickle for extra crunch and flavor. A fresh cucumber-tomato salad adds a cool contrast, while a side of garlic chutney kicks up the heat. If you’re feeling indulgent, buttery pav toasted with extra garlic is a must. For something lighter, try steamed rice or a simple raita. These sides balance the richness of the bhaji, making every bite even more satisfying.
Perfect Beverage Pairings
There’s nothing like a hot plate of pav bhaji, but the right drink can make it even better. I always reach for a chilled glass of masala chaas—it’s cooling, tangy, and balances the spices perfectly. If I’m feeling fancy, I’ll make a fresh mango lassi; its sweetness complements the savory bhaji beautifully. Sometimes, I opt for a simple lemon soda—it’s fizzy, invigorating, and cuts through the richness. Hot chai works wonders too, especially on chilly evenings. Personally, I love these pairings because they enhance the meal without overpowering it. What’s your go-to drink with pav bhaji?