Pav bhaji is a popular Indian street food dish consisting of a spicy vegetable curry served with a soft bread bun. The spelling of this dish may be confusing for those unfamiliar with Indian cuisine. The correct pronunciation is [pɑːv bʌdʒi]. The word "pav" comes from the Portuguese word for bread, "pão", and the word "bhaji" means a vegetable dish. Together, they create a delicious and satisfying meal that is enjoyed by many in India and beyond.
"Pav Bhaji" is a popular Indian street food dish that originated from the Maharashtra region, specifically Mumbai. It consists of two main components: "pav," which refers to a type of bread roll, and "bhaji," which means a spicy and tangy mixed vegetable curry.
The dish is prepared by first boiling a mixture of vegetables like potatoes, peas, cauliflower, carrots, and capsicum until they become soft and mashed. These vegetables are then sautéed with a blend of spices, including turmeric, red chili powder, garam masala, and pav bhaji masala, a specific spice mix used for this dish. Additionally, garlic, onions, and tomatoes are added to enhance the flavor and texture.
The spicy vegetable curry is then served with pav, which is a soft, buttered, and toasted bread roll. The pav is typically sliced in half horizontally and lightly toasted on a griddle with butter for a crispy exterior.
"Pav Bhaji" can be customized with various toppings such as chopped onions, cilantro, lemon juice, and sometimes grated cheese to elevate its taste. It is usually enjoyed as a quick and filling snack or even as a main course.
Known for its vibrant colors, robust flavors, and the perfect combination of heat and tanginess, "pav bhaji" is a favorite among street food enthusiasts and a quintessential dish in Indian cuisine.
The word "pav bhaji" is derived from two different languages: Marathi and Hindi.
The word "pav" in Marathi refers to a small, square-shaped bread roll that is similar to a dinner roll. It is derived from the Portuguese word "pão", which means bread. The term "pav" was introduced to India during the colonial era.
On the other hand, the word "bhaji" in Marathi means a vegetable curry or sabzi. In Hindi, it is known as "bhajiya". The term "bhaji" is derived from the Sanskrit word "bhaj", which means to fry or sauté.
When combined, "pav bhaji" refers to a dish consisting of a spicy vegetable curry (bhaji) served with bread rolls (pav).