French-inspired Pav Bhaji

Ingredients

In this French-inspired version of Pav Bhaji, we incorporate the traditional French cooking techniques and flavors. The original Indian dish is typically spicier and uses a different combination of spices like garam masala and turmeric. We have adapted the recipe to include French spices such as cumin, coriander, and paprika, which add a subtle and aromatic flavor profile. Additionally, we serve the Pav Bhaji with a crusty baguette instead of the traditional buttered buns, giving it a French touch. We alse have the original recipe for Pav bhaji, so you can check it out.

• 2 tablespoons (30ml) olive oil 2 tablespoons (30ml) olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 potatoes, peeled and diced 2 potatoes, peeled and diced
• 2 carrots, peeled and diced 2 carrots, peeled and diced
• 1 bell pepper, diced 1 bell pepper, diced
• 1 cup (150g) green peas 1 cup (150g) green peas
• 4 tomatoes, chopped 4 tomatoes, chopped
• 1 tablespoon (15g) tomato paste 1 tablespoon (15g) tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon (5g) cumin powder 1 teaspoon (5g) cumin powder
• 1 teaspoon (5g) coriander powder 1 teaspoon (5g) coriander powder
• 1 teaspoon (5g) paprika 1 teaspoon (5g) paprika
• Salt, to taste Salt, to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon (15g) butter 1 tablespoon (15g) butter
• Fresh coriander leaves, for garnish Fresh coriander leaves, for garnish
• Baguette, sliced, for serving Baguette, sliced, for serving

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 8g, 2g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 40g, 8g
• Protein: 6g
• Fiber: 8g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion turns translucent.
2. 2.
   Add the diced potatoes, carrots, bell pepper, and green peas to the pan. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. 3.
   Add the chopped tomatoes and tomato paste to the pan. Mix well.
4. 4.
   Sprinkle cumin powder, coriander powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper over the vegetables. Stir to combine.
5. 5.
   Cover the pan and let the vegetables cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are tender.
6. 6.
   Using a potato masher or the back of a spoon, mash the cooked vegetables until they form a thick stew-like consistency.
7. 7.
   Stir in the butter to add richness to the stew.
8. 8.
   Garnish with fresh coriander leaves.
9. 9.
   Serve the French-inspired Pav Bhaji hot with sliced baguette.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Potatoes — Make sure to dice the potatoes into small, uniform pieces to ensure even cooking.
• Baguette — Choose a crusty baguette with a soft interior for the best texture when dipping into the stew.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier version, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes.
• Customize the vegetable combination based on your preference and seasonal availability.
• Serve the Pav Bhaji with a side of pickled onions or cucumber salad for added freshness.
• If you prefer a smoother texture, use a blender or immersion blender to puree the stew.
• Leftover Pav Bhaji can be used as a filling for sandwiches or wraps.

Serving advice

Serve the French-inspired Pav Bhaji hot, garnished with fresh coriander leaves. Place the sliced baguette on a platter alongside the stew for dipping.

Presentation advice

Present the French-inspired Pav Bhaji in a rustic-style serving dish, highlighting the vibrant colors of the stew. Arrange the sliced baguette on a separate plate or in a bread basket for an inviting presentation.