- close
01/3The story of Pav Bhaji
Shop Similar Look
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) ALSO READ: Why a pizza got named after Queen Margherita
02/3How it is related to the American Civil War?
Shop Similar Look
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.
03/3The Portugal connection
Shop Similar Look
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.
End of Story
TRENDING ARTICLES
Radhika Merchant stuns in Sabyasachi
5 superstitions and their logical explanations
8 ways to incorporate ghee in your beauty routine
WHO defines physical inactivity: Know more
5 ways a full moon is believed to impact health
10 GK questions for today (26.06.24)
Meet Maye Musk, who raised Elon Musk
Fruits to eat and apply for glowing-youthful skin
Visual Stories
Right arrow
TV
Mushy pics of telly couple Arjun Bijlani and Neha Swami
Life Style
10 habits highly obedient kids are taught early
Entertainment
Sreeleela impresses with classic elegance in traditional outfits
Life Style
Preity Zinta takes Paris by storm with her breathtaking look in an ombre gown
Entertainment
Preity Zinta stuns in timeless fashion looking ever-youthful
Entertainment
In Pics: Elegant looks of Shriya Saran
Entertainment
From Sonakshi-Zaheer to Dharmendra-Hema: Bollywood celebs who chose registered marriages
TV
In pics: Elegant and charming looks of Nimeshika Radhakrishnan
Entertainment
Sneak peek into Reenu Mathews’ travel diaries
Entertainment
Tamannaah Bhatia's purple bodycon gown is a sight to sore eyes