Masala Pav is a popular street food from Mumbai, India, consisting of buttery, spicy tomato-based vegetable masala served with pav (soft bread rolls). It’s a quick, flavorful snack that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare.
Masala Pav Recipe
Masala Pav is a popular Indian street food that originated in the bustling streets of Mumbai. It's a flavorful and spicy dish made by generously spicing up pav (soft bread rolls) with a savory and tangy masala mixture. Masala Pav is known for its bold flavors and is a favorite among street food enthusiasts and locals alike.
Ingredients
- 4-6 Pav (bread rolls)
- 2 medium Onions finely chopped
- 3 medium Tomatoes finely chopped
- 1 Green bell pepper (capsicum) finely chopped
- 2 Green chilies chopped
- 1 teaspoon Garlic paste
- 1 teaspoon Ginger paste
- 2 tablespoons Pav bhaji masala
- 1 teaspoon Red chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon Turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon Cumin seeds (jeera)
- 3 tablespoons Butter
- Fresh coriander leaves for garnish
- 1 tablespoon Lemon juice
- to taste Salt
- 1 tablespoon Oil
Instructions
Prepare the Masala:
- Heat oil in a pan. Add cumin seeds and let them sizzle.
- Add chopped onions and sauté until they turn translucent.
- Stir in ginger and garlic paste, and sauté for a minute.
- Add chopped tomatoes, green bell pepper, and green chilies. Cook until the tomatoes soften.
- Sprinkle pav bhaji masala, red chili powder, turmeric powder, and salt. Cook until the masala releases oil.
- Mash the mixture slightly with a potato masher for a smoother consistency. If the masala is too dry, add a little water.
- Finish by adding a tablespoon of butter and lemon juice. Mix well and turn off the heat.
Prepare the Pav:
- Slit the pav horizontally leaving one edge intact.
- Heat a pan and add butter. Once the butter melts, open the pav and place it on the pan, cut side down. Toast the pav until it is lightly crispy and golden brown.
Assemble Masala Pav:
- Place the toasted pav on a plate. Spoon a generous amount of the prepared masala on the pav, ensuring it is well stuffed.
- Garnish with chopped coriander leaves.
Tips and Information
Conclusion:
Masala Pav is a spicy and flavorful street food delicacy that captures the essence of Mumbai’s vibrant food culture. Its spicy and tangy masala mixture, combined with the softness of pav, creates a taste sensation that is both indulgent and satisfying. Whether savored as a quick snack or as part of a larger meal, Masala Pav continues to be a beloved and iconic dish in Indian street food cuisine.Tips and Overview
- Pav Bhaji Masala: This spice blend is key to the dish’s flavor. It’s readily available in Indian grocery stores.
- Consistency of Masala: The masala should be moist but not too watery, as it will make the pav soggy.
- Butter: Using butter adds richness and authentic flavor to the dish. However, you can use oil for a vegan version.
- Serving Temperature: Masala Pav is best served hot and fresh.
- Variations: You can add vegetables like peas or carrots to the masala for added nutrition.