Pav Bhaji – The Ultimate Indian Street Food with Homemade Masala Twist
Pav Bhaji, one of India’s most beloved street foods, is a burst of flavor, spice, and comfort on a plate. Originating in Mumbai, Maharashtra, it has spread across India and even internationally, becoming a favorite in countries like the USA, UK, UAE, Singapore, and Canada. Traditionally served with soft buttered pav (bread rolls) and a vibrant vegetable bhaji (mashed spiced veggies), Pav Bhaji is enjoyed by people of all ages — from kids to elders, in morning breakfasts, evening snacks, and even late-night cravings.
I personally have fond memories of Pav Bhaji from my childhood. My mother would often make it at home, and the aroma of homemade masala and buttered bread would fill the kitchen. On days when she was busy, we would head out to local street stalls. The taste outside is always amazing, and the price in India usually ranges from ₹50–₹150, depending on location. Abroad, in restaurants or cafes, Pav Bhaji can cost anywhere from $5–$10, often slightly higher due to imported ingredients.
Why Pav Bhaji is Popular Across India
Pav Bhaji is universally loved because it’s:
Quick and filling -perfect for busy city life
Customizable – spice levels and veggies can be adjusted
Vibrant and colorful – visually appealing and perfect for Instagram photos!
While it started in Mumbai, today you can find Pav Bhaji in Delhi, Bengaluru, Kolkata, Punjab, and more. Even outside India, Indian restaurants and street food cafes serve it, making it a global favorite.
Ingredients You Need for Homemade Pav Bhaji Masala
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| Fresh vegetables, spices, and butter coming together to begin the authentic Pav Bhaji cooking process 🍅🧈 |
Vegetables
3–4 medium potatoes
1 cup cauliflower
1/2 cup green peas
1 large carrot
1 bell pepper (capsicum)
2–3 medium tomatoes
Spices & Masala
2 tbsp butter
1 tsp cumin seeds
2 tsp Pav Bhaji masala (store-bought or homemade)
1/2 tsp turmeric powder
1 tsp red chili powder
Salt to taste
Extras
Fresh coriander for garnish
Lemon wedges
Soft pav buns
How to Make Pav Bhaji – Step by Step
Boil and Mash Vegetables
Boil potatoes, cauliflower, peas, carrot until soft. Mash them lightly to create a creamy texture.
Prepare the Masala
In a heavy-bottom pan, heat butter, add cumin seeds, sauté until aromatic. Add chopped tomatoes, cook until soft, and mix in pav bhaji masala, turmeric, chili powder, and salt.
Cook the Bhaji
Add mashed vegetables to the pan. Mix well and simmer for 10–15 minutes. Adjust water for desired consistency. Add extra butter if you like a rich flavor.
Toast the Pav
Slice the pav buns horizontally. Heat a pan, melt butter, and toast each pav until golden brown.
Serve Hot
Garnish the bhaji with chopped coriander and serve with buttered pav, lemon wedges, and optional onion slices.
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| A hot, buttery plate of Pav Bhaji topped with fresh coriander and served with soft pav buns – street-style comfort food at its best 😋🔥 |
When and How People Eat Pav Bhaji
Pav Bhaji is enjoyed at any time of day:
Morning breakfast – a hearty start
Evening snacks – perfect with tea
Late-night cravings – quick, satisfying, and filling
It’s loved by all ages — children, teenagers, and adults. Its rich taste, buttery pav, and spicy-sweet bhaji make it an all-time comfort food.
Personal Memories – Human Touch
I remember those days when my mother made Pav Bhaji at home. The kitchen would fill with the aroma of homemade masala, and the family would gather around to enjoy the meal. Sometimes, when she was busy, we’d go outside to our favorite local stall. The taste outside is unique, and the experience of eating freshly made Pav Bhaji from a street vendor is something I will never forget.
These memories inspire me to share this recipe on my blog, combining the authentic taste of homemade masala with a modern twist.
Tips and Variations
For extra flavor, add a dash of garlic butter while cooking the bhaji.
Use different seasonal vegetables like pumpkin or zucchini for a twist.
Adjust spice levels for kids or people sensitive to chili.
Serve with cheese on top for a fusion modern style.
Call-to-Action & Blog Reminder
If you loved this recipe and story, follow our blog “Gurfateh Punjab Taste of India” for more authentic Indian recipes, street food secrets, and homemade delights. Share this recipe with your family and friends — and bring a little taste of India to your kitchen.
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Final Thought / Conclusion:
Pav Bhaji is more than just a dish — it’s a comfort food, a street food delight, and a memory of home. Whether you make it at home with your own homemade masala twist or enjoy it from your favorite street vendor, it brings flavor, joy, and togetherness to your table.
Follow us at “Gurfateh Punjab Taste of India” for more authentic Indian recipes, street food secrets, and delicious culinary stories. Share this recipe with your friends and family, and bring a little taste of India into your home.
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