So, Pav Bhaji is like a party on a plate. It’s rich, messy, and oh-so-tasty! We all have that friend who can eat an entire serving of bhaji in one go, right? Well, it’s that good.
Side dishes can turn a solid meal into a feast. Think crispy, spicy, and downright delicious! We’re talking about the perfect things to scoop up with that buttery pav. From crunchy pickles to fresh salads, it’s about enhancing those vibrant flavors.
Remember those times when we made it a contest to see who could eat the most? Good times! Now, let’s chat about the best side dishes to serve with Pav Bhaji that’ll make us want seconds—no, thirds!
Top 13 Side Dishes for Pav Bhaji
Here’s our list of the best dishes to serve with Pav Bhaji, which will have you dreaming of a trip to Mumbai.
1 – Onion and Tomato Salad
Onion and tomato salad is our go-to sidekick for Pav Bhaji. It’s fresh, zesty, and downright crowd-pleasing. The crunch of onions meets the juiciness of tomatoes perfectly.
We can toss in some lemon juice and sprinkle salt for that extra zing. The combo cuts through the richness of bhaji. Just chop, mix, and voila! A bright, punchy salad that balances the dish like a champ.
2 – Masala Pulao
Masala pulao is the life of the party. It’s a fragrant, spiced rice dish that makes everything better.
We load it up with peas and crispy onions for good measure. The hint of cumin and cardamom really set it apart.
We love how the flavors blend together. It’s hearty and satisfying, perfect with Pav Bhaji.
Don’t skimp on the ghee; it adds a rich touch. A sprinkle of fresh coriander on top? Yes, please!
3 – Garlic Naan
Garlic naan is like that friend who shows up with snacks. It’s soft, fluffy, and bursting with garlicky goodness. We love how warm it feels right out of the oven.
The buttery crust goes perfectly with all that bhaji. Dip it or scoop it—either way, it’s pure joy. A sprinkle of fresh coriander on top brings a pop of colour and freshness.
If we’re feeling cheeky, we hit it with some extra garlic. It makes every bite even better!
4 – Cucumber Raita
Cucumber raita is our cooling buddy on spicy days. It’s creamy, tangy, and refreshingly crunchy.
The cucumbers add a delightful crunch and color. Mix in some yogurt and a hint of cumin for extra flavor.
A dash of mint or coriander really brings it all together.
We love how it calms any fiery dish, making it perfect with Pav Bhaji.
Plus, it’s super easy to whip up. Just chop, stir, and chill!
5 – Mumbai Sandwich
Mumbai sandwich is a total winner. It’s stacked with layers of spicy, tangy, and crunchy goodness.
We load it up with veggies like potatoes, cucumbers, and tomatoes. The chutneys add a nice kick.
Each bite has that awesome blend of spices and freshness. Toasting it makes the bread crispy, adding another dimension.
We love how it’s perfect for any meal or snack. Just grab it and munch away!
6 – Kachori
Kachori is that crispy little gem we all crave sometimes. These deep-fried pastries are stuffed with spicy lentils and herbs. The crunchy skin gives way to a flavorful filling that dances with spices.
They are great as a snack or paired with some tangy chutney. We love how the spices bring warmth, while the fried exterior offers a nice crunch. Perfect for a cozy evening or as a fun party treat.
7 – Spicy Potato Wedges
Spicy potato wedges are our go-to for a crispy, flavorful side. They’ve got that perfect kick with a hint of heat.
We season them well with paprika, garlic powder, and a touch of cayenne.
The outside is perfectly crunchy, while the inside stays soft and fluffy.
Pair them with tangy dips like ranch or chipotle mayo for an extra zing. These wedges are perfect for snacking or as a tasty side to any meal.
8 – Vegetable Seekh Kebabs
Ah, spicy potato wedges—our go-to crunchy goodness! These wedges are simple yet so satisfying. They’re seasoned with paprika, garlic powder, and a hint of cayenne.
We love the crispy exterior and fluffy interior. Each bite delivers a kick of flavor. Pair them with ranch or chipotle mayo for a tangy twist.
Perfect for munching on the couch or as a side with Pav Bhaji. These wedges are a definite crowd-pleaser!
9 – Kachumber Salad
Kachumber salad is a fresh and crunchy side that we can’t get enough of. It’s a mix of diced cucumbers, tomatoes, and onions. The zing of lemon juice and a sprinkle of chaat masala really wakes up the flavors.
It’s light and vibrantly colourful. Each bite feels refreshing. We love it served chilled. Perfect alongside spicy dishes, it balances everything beautifully. Just chop, toss, and enjoy a burst of freshness on your plate!
10 – Paneer Tikka
Paneer tikka hits the spot! This dish features marinated paneer grilled to perfection, bursting with smoky flavors.
We love how the spices mingle together. The tangy yogurt marinade makes the paneer so juicy. Each bite offers a delightful char that brings warmth to our palates.
Pair it with mint chutney for a fresh kick. It’s super versatile. Enjoy it as an appetizer or a fun side with pav bhaji. Seriously, it’s a must-try!
11 – Mini Samosas
Mini samosas are our little crispy buddies that steal the show. They come packed with spicy potato goodness, and that crunch? Perfect.
We love the blend of spices like cumin and coriander. Each bite offers a flaky shell that gives way to a flavorful filling.
They’re awesome as appetizers or snacks. Pair them with mint chutney or tamarind sauce for a touch of sweetness. Perfect for any gathering or movie night with friends.
12 – Beetroot Salad
Beetroot salad is a tasty surprise on our plates. It’s earthy and slightly sweet, bringing a lovely contrast to spicy dishes.
We like to add fresh herbs for brightness. A squeeze of lemon juice gives it a refreshing zing.
Chop up some onions for crunch, and toss it all together. It’s vibrant and packed with nutrients. We enjoy it chilled, making it perfect for warm days. Just remember to wear an apron—beetroot can stain!
13 – Pappadums
Pappadums are our crunchy obsession. They’re super crispy and bring a nice texture to our meals.
We love how they’re typically made from lentil flour. The flavour is toasty and slightly nutty.
Serve them plain or spice them up with some chat masala for a kick. They’re perfect for munching with dips or just by themselves.
A quick roast or fry makes them even more addictive. These little guys are a must-have at our table!
Andrew Gray is a seasoned food writer and blogger with a wealth of experience in the restaurant and catering industries. With a passion for all things delicious, Andrew has honed his culinary expertise through his work as a personal chef and caterer.
His love for food led him to venture into food writing, where he has contributed to various online publications, sharing his knowledge and insights on the culinary world. As the proud owner of CooksCrafter.com, Andrew covers a wide range of topics, including recipes, restaurant reviews, product recommendations, and culinary tips.
Through his website, he aims to inspire and educate fellow food enthusiasts, offering a comprehensive resource for all things food-related.