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If you're looking to bring the vibrant flavors of Mumbai street food to your kitchen, these 9 Instant Pot Pav Bhaji recipes are a great starting point. Each recipe offers a unique twist on the classic dish, catering to various tastes and dietary preferences. Whether you're in the mood for something spicy, cheesy, or even vegan, there's a version for you. Let's explore how to elevate your cooking with these delectable options.
Key Takeaways
- Explore classic Pav Bhaji recipes focusing on the authentic blend of spices and vegetables for a true street food experience.
- Try variations like Spicy Paneer and Vegan Pav Bhaji, catering to different dietary preferences while maintaining flavor.
- Discover kid-friendly versions that use colorful vegetables and milder spices to appeal to younger tastes.
- Utilize the Instant Pot for quicker cooking times, enhancing flavors while ensuring a perfect texture for the vegetable mash.
- Experiment with customizations, including lemon juice, toasted pav, or creamy additions for a personalized touch to your Pav Bhaji.
Classic Pav Bhaji Recipe
Pav Bhaji is a vibrant and flavorful street food from India that has captured the hearts of many. This dish consists of a spicy vegetable mash served with buttered bread rolls, known as pav. Cooking Pav Bhaji in an Instant Pot not only simplifies the process but also enhances the flavors, allowing the vegetables to blend beautifully while saving time.
Whether you're hosting a party or just enjoying a cozy meal at home, this classic recipe is sure to delight your taste buds.
Using an Instant Pot for this recipe means you can achieve tender vegetables and a rich, creamy bhaji in a fraction of the time it would take on the stovetop. This method also means less mess and easier cleanup. Gather your ingredients and get ready to whip up this delicious Pav Bhaji that's perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (potatoes, carrots, peas, bell peppers)
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 tomatoes, pureed
- 2-3 green chilies, slit
- 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
- 2 tablespoons Pav Bhaji masala
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Salt to taste
- Fresh coriander leaves, chopped (for garnish)
- 6-8 pav (bread rolls)
- Additional butter (for toasting pav)
Cooking Instructions:
- Start by setting your Instant Pot to sauté mode. Add butter and let it melt. Once melted, add the chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent.
- Then, stir in the ginger-garlic paste and green chilies, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Add the pureed tomatoes, turmeric powder, and Pav Bhaji masala. Mix well and let it cook for a few minutes until the oil starts to separate from the mixture.
- Now, add the mixed vegetables and salt. Stir to combine, then add about a cup of water.
- Close the lid of the Instant Pot, set the valve to sealing, and cook on high pressure for 8 minutes.
- Once done, allow for natural pressure release for about 5 minutes, then perform a quick release for any remaining pressure.
- Open the lid and mash the vegetables using a potato masher or a hand blender to achieve a smooth consistency.
Extra Tips:
To enhance the flavor of your Pav Bhaji, consider adding a squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving.
You can also customize the spiciness by adjusting the number of green chilies according to your taste.
For an extra indulgent experience, toast the pav in butter until golden brown and serve alongside the bhaji with chopped onions and coriander for garnishing.
Enjoy your delicious, home-cooked Pav Bhaji!
Spicy Paneer Pav Bhaji
To make Spicy Paneer Pav Bhaji, you'll need a selection of fresh vegetables, spices, and paneer. The Instant Pot allows for quick pressure cooking, which helps to meld the flavors beautifully, creating a luscious bhaji that pairs perfectly with buttered pav. Serve it hot with a squeeze of lemon and a sprinkle of chopped onions for an authentic experience.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (potatoes, carrots, peas, bell peppers)
- 1 cup paneer, cubed
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 tomatoes, pureed
- 2 tablespoons ginger-garlic paste
- 2-3 green chilies, slit
- 2 teaspoons pav bhaji masala
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Salt to taste
- Fresh coriander leaves, chopped (for garnish)
- Pav (bread rolls), for serving
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
Cooking Instructions:
- Begin by setting your Instant Pot to sauté mode. Melt the butter and add the chopped onions, cooking until they turn translucent.
- Add the ginger-garlic paste and green chilies, sautéing for another couple of minutes until fragrant. Stir in the pureed tomatoes, pav bhaji masala, red chili powder, turmeric powder, and salt. Cook the mixture for 5-7 minutes until the oil starts to separate from the masala.
- Add the mixed vegetables and paneer cubes to the pot, stirring well to coat them with the masala.
- Pour in enough water to cover the vegetables (about 1-2 cups) and then close the lid. Set the Instant Pot to manual high pressure for 10 minutes.
- Once done, allow for a natural pressure release for about 5 minutes before performing a quick release to let out the remaining steam. Open the lid and mash the bhaji to your desired consistency using a potato masher.
- Garnish with chopped coriander leaves and serve hot with buttered pav and lemon wedges.
Extra Tips:
For an extra kick, you can add a dash of garam masala or a sprinkle of chaat masala before serving.
If you prefer a creamier texture, add a splash of cream or milk to the bhaji after mashing. Adjust the spice levels according to your taste by modifying the number of green chilies or the amount of red chili powder.
Enjoy your Spicy Paneer Pav Bhaji with a side of crispy fried green chilies for an authentic street food experience!
Vegan Pav Bhaji
Pav Bhaji is a beloved street food from India, known for its vibrant colors and rich flavors. It's a spicy vegetable mash served with soft bread rolls, and it can be easily made vegan by using plant-based ingredients. The Instant Pot simplifies the cooking process, ensuring that the vegetables are cooked to perfection while retaining their nutrients and flavors. This recipe will guide you through creating a delicious vegan Pav Bhaji that's sure to impress your friends and family.
To make this dish, you'll need a variety of vegetables and spices that come together to create a hearty and satisfying meal. The Instant Pot not only reduces cooking time but also enhances the flavors as everything cooks together under pressure. This vegan version isn't only healthy but also packed with protein and fiber, making it a great choice for anyone looking for a nutritious meal.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (potatoes, carrots, peas, bell peppers)
- 1 cup cauliflower florets
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 tomatoes, chopped
- 2 green chilies, slit
- 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
- 2 tablespoons pav bhaji masala
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 tablespoon oil
- Salt to taste
- Fresh coriander for garnish
- 8 pav (bread rolls)
- Lemon wedges for serving
To start, set your Instant Pot to the sauté mode and heat the oil. Add the chopped onions and green chilies, sautéing until the onions become translucent. Then, stir in the ginger-garlic paste and cook for another minute.
Add the chopped tomatoes, turmeric powder, and pav bhaji masala, cooking until the tomatoes soften. Next, add the mixed vegetables and cauliflower florets, along with a cup of water and salt to taste. Close the lid and set the Instant Pot to manual mode for 10 minutes. Once cooking is complete, use the quick release function to release the steam.
After opening the lid, use a masher or the back of a spoon to mash the cooked vegetables to your desired consistency. Adjust the seasoning if necessary and let it simmer for a few minutes on the sauté mode to blend the flavors.
Serve hot, garnished with fresh coriander and accompanied by buttery toasted pav rolls and lemon wedges.
Extra Tips:
For a richer flavor, consider adding a tablespoon of vegan butter while mashing the bhaji. You can also customize the spice level by adjusting the number of green chilies or adding a pinch of red chili powder if you like it spicier.
Don't forget to serve with a side of pickles or a tangy chutney for an extra burst of flavor. Enjoy your homemade vegan Pav Bhaji!
Kids-Friendly Pav Bhaji
Pav Bhaji is a beloved street food from India, known for its rich and flavorful vegetable mix served with buttery bread rolls. This dish isn't only delicious but also highly nutritious, making it an excellent option for kids. The Instant Pot simplifies the cooking process, allowing you to whip up this delightful meal in no time.
In this kid-friendly version, we'll incorporate a variety of colorful vegetables that are sure to appeal to young palates. The spices are kept mild to guarantee it's suitable for children while still retaining the essence of traditional Pav Bhaji. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a fun family meal, where the kids can even help with the toppings!
Ingredients:
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (potatoes, carrots, peas, bell peppers)
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 tomatoes, pureed
- 2 tablespoons Pav Bhaji masala
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon oil
- Salt to taste
- Fresh coriander leaves, chopped (for garnish)
- Pav (bread rolls)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
Instructions:
- Start by setting your Instant Pot to sauté mode. Add oil and butter, and once hot, toss in the chopped onions. Sauté until the onions become translucent. Add the ginger-garlic paste and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Next, add the pureed tomatoes and cook until the mixture thickens. Stir in the Pav Bhaji masala and turmeric powder, followed by the mixed vegetables. Pour in enough water to cover the veggies, season with salt, and close the Instant Pot lid. Cook on high pressure for 10 minutes. Once done, do a quick release.
- Use a potato masher to mash the cooked vegetables to your desired consistency. Adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot with buttered Pav and garnish with fresh coriander and lemon wedges.
Extra Tips:
To make Pav Bhaji even more appealing to kids, consider adding a bit of grated cheese on top when serving. You can also serve the dish with a side of crispy papad or chips for added crunch.
Encourage kids to customize their toppings by offering options like chopped onions, diced tomatoes, or even a dollop of yogurt for a creamier texture. Finally, if your kids enjoy spice, you can gradually introduce more Pav Bhaji masala to their portions as they become accustomed to the flavors!
Mumbai Street Style Pav Bhaji
Mumbai Street Style Pav Bhaji is a beloved dish that captures the essence of the bustling streets of Mumbai. With its rich blend of vegetables and spices, this dish is a perfect comfort food that can be enjoyed by everyone.
The Pav, soft bread rolls, perfectly complements the spicy bhaji, creating a delicious combination that's hard to resist. Cooking it in an Instant Pot not only saves time but also enhances the flavors, making it a quick yet authentic experience.
The beauty of Pav Bhaji lies in its versatility; you can adjust the spice levels according to your taste preferences. This recipe brings you the traditional Mumbai street style bhaji, packed with flavors and topped with a dollop of butter, fresh coriander, and a squeeze of lemon. Serve it with soft pav rolls, and you're in for a treat that will transport you straight to the vibrant streets of Mumbai.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (potatoes, peas, carrots, bell peppers)
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 large tomatoes, pureed
- 1 green chili, chopped
- 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
- 2 tablespoons pav bhaji masala
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder
- Salt to taste
- 2 tablespoons butter (plus extra for serving)
- 2 tablespoons oil
- Fresh coriander leaves, chopped
- Lemon wedges
- 8 pav (bread rolls)
Cooking Instructions:
- Start by setting your Instant Pot to sauté mode. Add oil and butter, and once melted, add the chopped onions. Sauté the onions until they turn translucent.
- Then, add the ginger-garlic paste and green chili, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
- Next, add the pureed tomatoes, turmeric powder, red chili powder, and salt. Cook until the oil separates from the mixture.
- Stir in the mixed vegetables and pav bhaji masala, mixing well to coat the vegetables with the spices. Add a cup of water, close the lid, and set the Instant Pot to manual mode for 10 minutes.
- Once done, allow for natural pressure release.
- Open the lid, mash the cooked vegetables with a potato masher directly in the pot until it reaches a smooth consistency. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Serve hot with a generous dollop of butter, garnished with fresh coriander and lemon wedges alongside the soft pav rolls.
Extra Tips:
For an added depth of flavor, try roasting your vegetables before adding them to the Instant Pot. This will enhance their sweetness and provide a smoky undertone to your bhaji.
Additionally, feel free to customize the spice levels by adding more or less red chili powder and pav bhaji masala. Ultimately, to achieve the perfect pav, lightly toast them in butter before serving for an irresistible crunch.
Enjoy your homemade Mumbai Street Style Pav Bhaji!
Masala Pav Bhaji
Masala Pav Bhaji is a popular Indian street food that offers a delicious medley of vegetables cooked with aromatic spices and served with buttery bread rolls known as pav. This dish isn't only flavorful but also nutritious, making it an excellent choice for family dinners or gatherings. The Instant Pot takes the hassle out of cooking Pav Bhaji, allowing you to achieve the perfect consistency and flavor without standing over the stove for hours.
In this recipe, you'll learn how to prepare Masala Pav Bhaji effortlessly using your Instant Pot. The key to a great Pav Bhaji lies in the blend of spices and the right combination of vegetables, which come together to create a rich and satisfying dish. Serve it with some chopped onions, fresh coriander, and a squeeze of lime for an extra burst of flavor.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (potatoes, peas, carrots, bell peppers)
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 tomatoes, pureed
- 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
- 2 tablespoons Pav Bhaji masala
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 4 tablespoons butter
- Salt to taste
- 8 pav (bread rolls)
- Fresh coriander, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
To prepare Masala Pav Bhaji in your Instant Pot, start by selecting the sauté mode and melting 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they turn translucent.
Next, stir in the ginger-garlic paste and cook for another minute until the raw smell dissipates. Add the pureed tomatoes, Pav Bhaji masala, red chili powder, turmeric powder, and salt. Mix well and let it cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the spices to combine and the mixture to thicken slightly.
Now, add the mixed vegetables and approximately 1 cup of water. Close the Instant Pot lid, ensuring the vent is sealed, and set it to high pressure for 10 minutes.
Once the cooking time is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally for about 5 minutes, then perform a quick release for any remaining pressure. Open the lid and mash the vegetables using a potato masher or a spatula until you achieve a smooth consistency.
Finally, stir in the remaining butter and garnish with chopped coriander.
When cooking Masala Pav Bhaji, feel free to experiment with the vegetables based on your preference or what you have on hand. You can also adjust the spice levels according to your taste.
For an even richer flavor, let the Bhaji sit for a while after cooking, as this will allow the spices to meld together. Remember to serve the dish hot with buttered pav and your favorite toppings for the best experience!
Quick and Easy Pav Bhaji
Pav Bhaji is a beloved street food from India that combines a spicy vegetable mash with soft, buttery bread rolls known as pav. This dish isn't only flavorful but also incredibly satisfying, making it a favorite among food lovers.
Preparing Pav Bhaji in an Instant Pot simplifies the cooking process, allowing you to achieve a perfect blend of spices and textures while saving time. Whether you're hosting a party or simply craving a delicious meal, this quick and easy recipe will surely impress.
Using the Instant Pot, you can cook the vegetables and spices together, resulting in a rich and hearty bhaji. The pressure cooking method helps to meld the flavors beautifully, and the best part is that it requires minimal hands-on time. Serve the bhaji hot with toasted pav, and you have a delightful meal that brings the essence of Mumbai street food right to your kitchen.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (potatoes, peas, carrots, bell peppers)
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 tomatoes, chopped
- 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
- 2 tablespoons pav bhaji masala
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Salt to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
- Lemon wedges for serving
- 4-6 pav (bread rolls)
Cooking Instructions:
- Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode and melt the butter. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown. Stir in the ginger-garlic paste and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add the chopped tomatoes, pav bhaji masala, red chili powder, turmeric powder, and salt. Cook until the tomatoes become soft and the oil starts to separate from the mixture.
- Add the mixed vegetables to the pot along with 1 cup of water. Close the lid, set the valve to sealing, and cook on high pressure for 8 minutes.
- Once done, perform a quick release. Use a potato masher to mash the vegetables to your desired consistency. Adjust the seasoning if necessary. Serve hot with toasted pav, garnished with fresh cilantro and lemon wedges.
Extra Tips:
For an even richer flavor, consider adding a dollop of butter on top of the bhaji before serving.
You can also customize the vegetables based on your preference or what you have on hand. If you like your bhaji spicier, feel free to adjust the chili powder or add some finely chopped green chilies during the cooking process.
Enjoy your homemade Pav Bhaji with a side of crispy onions and a sprinkle of chaat masala for an extra kick!
Healthy Quinoa Pav Bhaji
Pav Bhaji is a beloved Indian street food that features a spicy vegetable mash served with buttered bread rolls, known as pav. To give this classic dish a healthy twist, we'll be using quinoa as a nutritious base instead of the traditional potatoes. Quinoa not only adds a great texture but also boosts the protein content of the dish, making it perfect for a wholesome meal.
This recipe leverages the Instant Pot to simplify the cooking process, allowing you to enjoy this delicious dish with minimal effort. In this healthy quinoa pav bhaji recipe, we'll combine various vegetables and spices to create a flavorful mash that pairs perfectly with lightly toasted pav.
The Instant Pot will do all the hard work for you, cooking the quinoa and vegetables to the perfect consistency in no time. Whether you're preparing a quick weeknight dinner or hosting friends for a weekend feast, this dish is sure to impress with its vibrant flavors and healthy ingredients.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
- 1 cup water
- 1 tablespoon oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 tomatoes, chopped
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 1 cup cauliflower florets
- 1 cup green peas (fresh or frozen)
- 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
- 2 teaspoons pav bhaji masala
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder
- Salt to taste
- Fresh coriander leaves, chopped (for garnish)
- Pav (bread rolls), for serving
- Butter (optional, for toasting pav)
Cooking Instructions:
- Set your Instant Pot to sauté mode and heat the oil. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they turn translucent. Stir in the ginger-garlic paste and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add the chopped tomatoes and bell pepper, cooking until the tomatoes soften. Then, add the cauliflower, green peas, pav bhaji masala, red chili powder, and salt. Mix well to combine all the ingredients.
- Pour in the rinsed quinoa and water, stirring gently. Close the Instant Pot lid, seal the vent, and cook on manual high pressure for 6 minutes. Allow for a natural release for 10 minutes, then release any remaining pressure.
- Open the lid and mash the mixture using a potato masher or fork until it reaches your desired consistency. If the bhaji is too thick, you can add a splash of water to loosen it up.
Extra Tips:
When preparing quinoa pav bhaji, feel free to customize the vegetables based on what you have on hand. You can include carrots, zucchini, or even sweet corn for added sweetness.
For a richer flavor, consider adding a dollop of butter to the bhaji just before serving or use ghee for a more traditional taste. Serve the bhaji hot with toasted pav and a sprinkle of fresh coriander for an authentic experience!
Cheesy Pav Bhaji
Cheesy Pav Bhaji is a delightful twist on the classic Mumbai street food that will tantalize your taste buds. This rich and buttery dish is packed with an array of vegetables, combined with a luscious, cheesy topping that melts in your mouth. The Instant Pot makes the cooking process quick and efficient, allowing you to whip up this comfort food favorite in no time.
Whether it's a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends, this Cheesy Pav Bhaji is sure to be a hit. To enhance the flavors, the bhaji is spiced with a special blend of masalas, giving it that authentic street food experience. The creamy texture of the cheese balances the spices perfectly, making every bite irresistible. Serve it with soft buttered pav (bread rolls), and you'll have a crowd-pleaser on your hands!
Ingredients:
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (potatoes, carrots, peas, and bell peppers)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 tomatoes, pureed
- 2-3 green chilies, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
- 2-3 tablespoons pav bhaji masala
- Salt, to taste
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 cup grated cheese (cheddar or processed)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- 6-8 pav (bread rolls)
Instructions:
- Start by adding the mixed vegetables, chopped onion, green chilies, and ginger-garlic paste to the Instant Pot. Add a little water, close the lid, and set it to cook on high pressure for about 5 minutes. Once done, release the pressure manually.
- Mash the cooked vegetables with a potato masher or fork until you achieve a smooth consistency. Stir in the tomato puree, pav bhaji masala, and salt. Let it simmer on the sauté mode for a few minutes.
- Add butter and mix well until it melts into the bhaji. Finally, sprinkle the grated cheese on top and mix until it melts into the bhaji for that cheesy goodness. Serve hot with buttered pav, garnished with cilantro.
Extra Tips:
For an extra layer of flavor, you can add a bit of cream or milk to the bhaji before adding the cheese, which will enhance its richness. Additionally, feel free to customize the vegetables according to your preference, and don't forget to serve it with a squeeze of lemon for a zesty kick!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Frozen Vegetables for Pav Bhaji?
Yes, you can use frozen vegetables for pav bhaji. They save time and still provide great flavor. Just make sure to adjust cooking times slightly, as frozen veggies may cook faster than fresh ones.
How Long Does Pav Bhaji Last in the Fridge?
Pav bhaji lasts about three to four days in the fridge when stored in an airtight container. Just make sure to reheat it thoroughly before serving again, and it'll taste great!
Can I Make Pav Bhaji Without Potatoes?
Imagine a vibrant dish bursting with flavors! You can definitely make pav bhaji without potatoes. Substitute with vegetables like cauliflower or carrots for a unique twist. Your taste buds won't even miss the potatoes!
What Type of Bread Is Best for Pav Bhaji?
For pav bhaji, you'll want to use soft, buttery bread rolls known as pav. They're perfect for scooping up the spicy bhaji and soaking up all the delicious flavors. It's a classic combination you'll love!
How Do I Adjust Pav Bhaji Spice Levels?
To adjust pav bhaji spice levels, you can add more chili powder or green chilies for heat. If it's too spicy, mix in some mashed potatoes or butter to balance the flavors. Taste and tweak as needed!
