Pav Bhaji's connection with the civil war and its story of reaching India

When we talk about the famous food of Mumbai, there is only one thing that comes out of our mouths and it's none other than the delicious Pav Bhaji. It’s a dish made with mashed potatoes and lots of other vegetables topped with loads of butter and served with a Maharashtrian bread called Pav. It is arguably one of the most popular street foods in India and can be enjoyed any time of the day. However, there is one thing about this dish that many people do not know, it is not Indian. Here’s all you need to know about this popular Maharashtrian dish. (Images courtesy: iStock)

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You will be surprised to know that the history of Pav Bhaji is related to the American Civil War. This war lasted from 1861 to 1865 between the United States and 11 southern states. According to reports, the southern United States was completely cut off from the global market during the war. The main crop of these states was cotton. The British issued an order to increase the production of cotton mills in Mumbai. To fulfil the orders of the British Government, the labourers were forced to work day and night in the mills one by one. The food of the workers was also arranged outside the mills. Food had to be made here which was not only cheap but also easy to make. The cooks took advantage of the opportunity and invented a new dish. At these stalls, Bhaji was made from the leftover vegetables and after baking the bread left over from the bakery, it was served to the labourers with butter and it became Pav Bhaji.

Some food historians also argue that the dish is connected with the Portuguese. The Portuguese used to make bhaji by mixing all the vegetables together and used to eat pav i.e. seven pieces of bread. Bread is called 'Pao' in Portuguese and it is also called Pav in India. It is believed that when the Portuguese gave Mumbai as a dowry to the British government, Pav Bhaji also became a part of Mumbai.

If you are also intrigued by Pav Bhaji’s history, click here to know its authentic recipe and do try it at home.