Ashk Bombay Pav Bhaji 280g

Ashk Bombay Pav Bhaji is a beloved street food from Mumbai, known for its spicy and tangy vegetable mash served with buttery pav (bread rolls). The term „Ashk“ refers to the caramelized onions used in the preparation, which add a rich, sweet flavor to the dish. Here’s how you can make this flavorful dish:
Ingredients:
For the Bhaji (Vegetable Mash):
4-5 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
1 cup cauliflower florets
1 cup peas (fresh or frozen)
1 large onion, finely chopped
2 large tomatoes, finely chopped or pureed
1 bell pepper (capsicum), finely chopped
1-inch piece of ginger, finely chopped
4-5 cloves of garlic, finely chopped
2-3 green chilies, slit (adjust to taste)
2 tbsp pav bhaji masala (store-bought or homemade)
1 tsp turmeric powder
1 tsp red chili powder (adjust to taste)
1 tsp cumin seeds
1/2 tsp garam masala
1/2 tsp coriander powder
2 tbsp butter (for cooking)
2 tbsp oil
Salt to taste
Fresh coriander leaves for garnishing
Lemon wedges for serving
For the Pav (Bread Rolls):
6-8 pav (bread rolls)
2-3 tbsp butter (for toasting)
Instructions:
Cook the Vegetables:
Boil the potatoes, cauliflower, and peas in a pot of salted water until tender. Drain and set aside.
Mash the boiled vegetables using a masher or a fork. Set aside.
Prepare the Bhaji Base:
Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a large pan. Add cumin seeds and let them splutter.
Add the finely chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown and caramelized. This process adds sweetness and depth to the bhaji.
Add the ginger, garlic, and green chilies. Cook until the raw smell disappears.
Add the bell pepper and cook for a couple of minutes until it softens.
Add Tomatoes and Spices:
Add the chopped or pureed tomatoes to the pan. Cook until the oil starts to separate from the mixture.
Stir in turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, and pav bhaji masala. Cook for a minute to allow the spices to bloom.
Incorporate the Vegetables:
Add the mashed vegetables to the tomato-onion mixture. Mix well to combine everything.
Add salt to taste and cook on medium heat for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. The bhaji should be thick and the flavors well blended.
Stir in the garam masala and adjust seasoning as needed.
Finish with Butter:
Add 2 tablespoons of butter to the bhaji and mix well. This adds a rich flavor and makes the bhaji creamy.
Toast the Pav:
Heat a griddle or pan over medium heat. Slice the pav horizontally.
Spread butter on the cut sides of the pav and toast until golden brown and crispy.
Garnishing:
Garnish the bhaji with freshly chopped coriander leaves.
Serve with lemon wedges on the side.
Serving:
Serve the hot Ashk Bombay Pav Bhaji with the toasted pav rolls. Squeeze lemon juice over the bhaji just before eating for an extra zing. You can also serve it with sliced onions, chopped coriander, and a dollop of butter on the side.
Enjoy the delicious and iconic Mumbai street food experience!