Description
This Tawa Pulao is a bold and flavorful Mumbai street food classic made with fluffy basmati rice, sautéed vegetables, and pav bhaji masala. Cooked on a flat griddle for that authentic smoky touch, this dish is quick, vibrant, and perfect for weeknight dinners, festive spreads, or meal prep.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Rice:
- 1 cup basmati rice (uncooked) or 3 cups cooked rice
- Water to cook rice
- Salt to taste
For the Tawa Pulao:
- 2 tablespoons butter (or oil)
- 1 teaspoon ginger garlic paste
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 small green capsicum, chopped
- 1 medium tomato, chopped
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)
- 1 1/2 teaspoons pav bhaji masala
- Salt to taste
- 1/2–3/4 cup mixed vegetables (boiled peas, carrots, beans)
- 2–3 tablespoons chopped coriander (cilantro)
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
- Cook the Rice: Rinse and cook basmati rice with salt until al dente. Drain and spread to cool.
- Prepare Vegetables: Boil peas, carrots, and beans until tender. Finely chop onion, tomato, and capsicum.
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat butter on a tawa or skillet. Add ginger garlic paste, sauté until fragrant. Stir in onion and cook until soft.
- Add Vegetables & Tomatoes: Add capsicum and cook 2–3 minutes, then stir in tomatoes and cook until soft.
- Bloom Spices: Mix in pav bhaji masala, chili powder, and salt. Cook 1–2 minutes.
- Combine Rice & Veggies: Add boiled vegetables and cooled rice. Gently toss until rice is coated with masala.
- Finish: Garnish with coriander and lemon juice. Serve hot with raita or salad.
Notes
- Use day-old or cooled rice to prevent stickiness.
- Pav bhaji masala is essential for authentic Mumbai flavor.
- Butter adds street-style richness — mix with oil if preferred.
- Cook briefly on high heat at the end for smoky flavor.
- Add paneer or mushrooms for protein and variety.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Dish / Street Food
- Method: Stovetop / Tawa Cooking
- Cuisine: Indian (Mumbai Street Food)
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
Keywords: Tawa Pulao, Mumbai Street Food, Pav Bhaji Rice, Spicy Indian Rice, Vegetarian Pulao, Easy Rice Recipe, Indian Dinner Ideas, Masala Rice, Street Style Rice, Pav Bhaji Masala Recipes