Street Style Bombay Pav Bhaji

Pav bhaji is a popular Indian street food that consists of a hearty, spiced mixed-vegetable mash (bhaji) served with soft, butter-toasted bread rolls (pav). Originating in Mumbai, it is a flavorful and satisfying meal or snack known for its rich, bold taste.
Key Components
Bhaji (Vegetable Mash): The core of the dish is a thick, spicy, and savory curry made from a medley of boiled and mashed vegetables, typically including potatoes, cauliflower, peas, carrots, and bell peppers. The vegetables are cooked in a tomato and onion-based gravy with a special blend of spices called “pav bhaji masala” and a generous amount of butter, giving the curry a smooth, yet slightly chunky, texture.
Pav (Bread Rolls): The bhaji is served alongside soft, fluffy dinner rolls that are sliced, buttered, and pan-toasted until golden brown.
Accompaniments: The dish is traditionally presented piping hot and garnished with fresh chopped onions, a sprinkle of cilantro, and a wedge of lemon or lime for a burst of freshness and tanginess.
Flavor Profile and Experience
Pav bhaji offers a complex blend of spicy, savory, and slightly tangy flavors. The liberal use of butter adds a creamy richness that is central to the authentic street-style taste. The contrasting textures of the warm, soft pav and the hearty bhaji, complemented by the crunch of raw onions and the zing of citrus, make it a dynamic and immensely gratifying culinary experience. It is often described as an Indian version of “sloppy joes” due to its mash consistency and hearty nature.