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Written by Shikha   |   Last updated: February 24, 2026

 

Pav Bhaji

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Pav Bhaji is a type of fast food/street food from Mumbai. “Pav” means bread and “bhaji” means vegetables, so it’s a dish of mashed-up vegetables with bread. It’s usually loaded with fat and salt and is generally cooked in butter and served with butter, but my guilt-free, plant-based version tastes just as delicious and even has some greens!
Servings: 6
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes

Ingredients 

  • 1 head cauliflower
  • 1 potato, (large, chopped)
  • 2 tablespoons coconut oil
  • 1 tablespoon cumin seeds
  • 1 red onion, (chopped, divided)
  • 1 cup carrots, (diced)
  • 2 tomatoes, (chopped)
  • 1 green bell pepper, (chopped)
  • 1 cup green beans, (chopped)
  • 1 tablespoon ginger, (grated)
  • 2 teaspoons pav bhaji masala
  • 1 cup kale leaves, (chopped)
  • 1 tablespoon cilantro or coriander, (chopped)
  • Salt, (to taste)
  • 1/2 lime
  • 6 burger buns, (whole wheat)

Instructions 

  • In large pot, bring water to a boil. 
  • Cut cauliflower into small pieces and add to boiling water, then boil until cauliflower is tender (about 5 minutes). Drain and set aside.  
  • Peel and cube potatoes then set them in a large saucepan or pot. Add enough water to cover the tops of potatoes and 1/2 to 1 teaspoon salt to water. Bring to a boil.
  • Reduce heat to medium-low. Cover pot with lid and cook potatoes until tender (about 15 minutes, use a fork to test). Drain potatoes in a colander and set aside.  
  • In a large pan, heat coconut oil, then add cumin seeds and let crackle. 
  • Add chopped onion, saving 1 tablespoon for garnish. Once the onion is translucent, add carrots and cook for 5 minutes.  
  • Add tomatoes, green bell peppers, green beans, ginger, 2 teaspoons pav bhaji masala, and salt to taste. Mix well and cook for another 5-10 minutes.  
  • Add boiled cauliflower and potato. Using a potato masher, mash everything into a mushy paste and cook until all water dries out.  
  • Turn the heat off. Add the kale leaves, and lime juice, and mix well. Cover the pan with a lid and cook for 5 minutes.  
  • Serve with whole wheat buns and garnish with chopped raw onions, cilantro, and lime wedge.

BON APPÉTIT!

    Note: Here is a link to the pav bhaji masala I like to use. 

    Shikha - Veggiecurean founder and recipe creator
    Shikha

    Shikha, creator of Veggiecurean, develops accessible vegetarian and vegan recipes with global influences. With training from the Institute for Integrative Nutrition and culinary schools, she combines technical expertise with practical plant-based cooking. Every recipe is thoroughly tested in her home kitchen to ensure success for home cooks.

    Nutrition Disclaimer

    Nutrition information is an estimate provided as a courtesy and may vary depending on ingredients used. This content is not intended as medical or dietary advice.