– 10 pavs
Pavs are a source of carbohydrates and provide energy through refined wheat flour; they contain modest amounts of protein and are typically enriched with milk and butter, adding fat-soluble vitamins and fat content.
About
Pavs, also known as pav or pau, is a soft, pillowy Indian bread roll that originated in Goa during the Portuguese colonial period. The word derives from the Portuguese "pão" (bread). These small, oval-shaped rolls are made from a simple yeast dough enriched with milk and butter, resulting in a tender crumb and golden-brown exterior. The dough is typically leavened with commercial yeast and allowed to rise, creating the characteristic light, airy texture. Pavs range from 2-3 inches in length and are often topped with sesame seeds or left plain. The bread is closely associated with Goan cuisine but is now consumed throughout India and in Indian diaspora communities worldwide.
Culinary Uses
Pavs are most famously paired with pav bhaji, a spiced vegetable curry served with generous amounts of butter and a squeeze of lime. The soft bread is ideal for dunking, scooping, and soaking up the flavorful bhaji. Beyond pav bhaji, pavs serve as versatile accompaniments to curries, chutneys, and gravies. They can be toasted and buttered as a breakfast item, used as sandwich bases for Indian street food preparations, or simply enjoyed warm with pickles and chutneys. The neutral flavor and absorbent texture make pavs excellent vehicles for various Indian preparations, particularly in coastal and urban Indian cooking.