By Devi Poojari
November 4, 2025
Savoury-spicy bhaji served with fluffy pav dripping in butter is a delightful experience that is worth being subject to at least once in a lifetime. For those who wish to mimic the joys and flavours of the pav bhaji within the comfort of their home, this foolproof recipe is sure to be a repeat feature for dinner or Sunday lunches.
2 onions, chopped 2-3 green chillies, chopped 4 tomatoes, chopped 2 boiled potatoes 1 cup green peas, boiled ½ cup chopped green beans, steamed 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste 1 teaspoon red chilli paste ½ teaspoon turmeric powder 1 teaspoon pav bhaji masala
1 teaspoon garam masala 1 teaspoon cumin seeds 1 tablespoon vegetable oil 1 + 1 tablespoons butter Salt, to taste 2 pav 1 wedge lemon 1 tablespoon chopped onion, for garnish 1 tablespoon chopped coriander, for garnish
Heat the oil in a wide-bottomed saucepan, temper the cumin seeds and sauté the onions and green chillies for 2-3 minutes.
Add the ginger-garlic paste to cook for a minute followed by the spice powders until they lose their raw aroma and bloom in the oil.
Tip in the tomatoes, along with some salt and cook for 10-12 minutes, until they turn mushy and begin to release oil from the sides.
Add the boiled potatoes, green peas, steamed beans while adjusting the seasoning along with some water.
Using the back of a spoon, mash the mixture to leave small chunks of vegetables but a predominantly semi-solid mixture which simmers for 4-5 minutes.
Meanwhile, apply some butter to the pav and toast it in a pan until slightly browned and crisp.
Serve the bhaji hot with a dollop of butter, sprinkle of chopped onion and coriander, squeeze of lime juice and the toasted pav on the side.