🇮🇳 Indian Cuisine · Street Food

Pav Bhaji

Prep

15 mins

Cook

30 mins

Serves

4

Difficulty

Easy

A buttery spiced vegetable mash served with soft bread rolls griddled in a generous slick of butter.

Ingredients

  • 600g paneer cubes
  • 300g idli batter
  • 2 tbsp curry leaves
  • a pinch of mustard seeds
  • 1/4 cup neutral vegetable oil
  • a generous handful of cauliflower florets
  • a handful of fresh cilantro, chopped
  • a generous spoonful of tamarind paste
  • 500ml whole milk
  • 2 tsp red chili powder
  • 200g fresh spinach

Instructions

  1. 1

    Prepare the naan bread base and set it aside to rest while you get the filling ready.

  2. 2

    In a bowl, combine the red lentils, potatoes, grated fresh ginger, and ground cumin, mixing well so everything is evenly seasoned.

  3. 3

    Heat neutral vegetable oil in a skillet, wok, or on a griddle over medium-high heat until shimmering.

  4. 4

    Cook the naan bread until lightly golden on each side, then transfer to a warm plate.

  5. 5

    Fry, grill, or steam the red lentils mixture until cooked through and lightly charred at the edges, about 30 mins.

  6. 6

    Assemble by layering the naan bread with the filling, a spoonful of roasted cashews, and a scattering of cilantro.

Tips

Serve immediately for the best contrast between a crisp exterior and a warm, tender filling.

Double the roasted cashews so you have plenty for dipping — it tends to disappear fast.

Keep the neutral vegetable oil hot but not smoking — a thermometer helps you nail the perfect frying or grilling temperature.