Jain Pav Bhaji with Bananas Recipe

Ingredients:

For the Bhaji (Vegetable Mash):

• 1 raw banana, peeled and mashed (for sweetness and creaminess)
• 1 cup boiled peas
• 1 cup boiled cauliflower florets
• 1/2 cup finely chopped capsicum (green bell pepper)
• 1/2 cup finely chopped cucumber
• 1/2 cup finely chopped green beans
• 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
• 1 1/2 tsp red chili powder
• 1 tsp garam masala
• 1/2 tsp cumin powder
• 1/2 tsp coriander powder
• 1/2 tsp ginger paste (optional)
• 2 tbsp fresh coriander leaves, chopped
• Salt to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil or ghee (Jain-friendly)
• 1 tbsp lemon juice

For the Pav (Bread Rolls):

• 8 pav buns (fresh and soft)
• 2 tbsp butter (optional, for those not adhering to strict Jain practices)

Instructions:

Step 1: Preparing the Bhaji (Vegetable Mash)

1. Boil the Vegetables: Start by boiling peas, cauliflower, and green beans in a pot or pressure cooker. Once tender, drain the water and set aside.
2. Cook the Vegetables: Heat oil or ghee in a large pan. Add finely chopped capsicum, cucumber, and other vegetables you prefer (excluding root vegetables). Sauté them for 2-3 minutes until they soften.
3. Spices: Add turmeric powder, red chili powder, garam masala, cumin powder, and coriander powder. Stir well for a minute until the spices release their aroma.
4. Mash the Vegetables: Add the boiled peas, cauliflower, and green beans to the pan. Mash the mixture with a potato masher, breaking down the vegetables until smooth.
5. Incorporate the Banana: Add the mashed banana to the vegetable mixture. The banana will give the bhaji a rich texture and a subtle sweetness, balancing the spices.
6. Add Tomatoes and Season: Stir in the boiled or mashed tomatoes, season with salt, and cook the bhaji for an additional 5-7 minutes until the flavors meld together.
7. Final Touches: Garnish with fresh coriander leaves, squeeze lemon juice, and mix well.

Step 2: Preparing the Pav (Bread Rolls)

1. Toast the Pav: Cut the pav buns horizontally (leave one side intact). Toast them in a pan with a little butter or ghee until golden and crispy on both sides.

Step 3: Serving

1. Serve the piping hot bhaji in a bowl, garnished with coriander and a dollop of ghee or butter (optional).
2. Place the toasted pav buns on the side. Serve with lemon wedges for a tangy kick.

Tips and Variation

• Banana Ripeness: Use a ripe banana for the best flavor and texture. It will blend more easily into the bhaji, giving it a creamy finish.
• Vegetable Choice: Feel free to experiment with other non-root vegetables like bottle gourd or zucchini for variety.
• Make It Vegan: Skip the butter or ghee to make the dish completely vegan and still delicious!

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