How to Make Butter Pav (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Butter Pav is a beloved street food from the vibrant streets of Mumbai, Maharashtra. The dish consists of soft, fluffy pav (bread rolls) enriched with a touch of butter and often served alongside flavorful accompaniments like Pav Bhaji or enjoyed solo as a satisfying lunch. Butter Pav holds a special place in Indian cuisine, especially in Western India, where it’s enjoyed by people of all ages. The pav is traditionally baked using 'maida' (refined flour), but health-conscious versions incorporate 'atta' (whole wheat flour) for added nutrition and fiber. The buttery aroma, tender crumb, and golden crust make Butter Pav irresistible, perfect for festive gatherings or a quick meal during busy weekdays. On festive occasions like Ganesh Chaturthi and Diwali, families in Maharashtra and Gujarat prepare Butter Pav as part of their celebration spreads. Its simple ingredients and comforting taste make it a versatile dish, whether paired with spicy sabzi or eaten plain. Butter Pav is a staple in Indian lunchboxes and tiffins, loved for its soft texture and mild flavor. With easy-to-find ingredients and minimal preparation, Butter Pav is a go-to lunch option for anyone seeking authentic Indian flavors in a health-conscious way.
Ingredients
- 1 cup Whole wheat flour (atta) (Atta)
- 1/2 cup Low-fat milk (Doodh)
- 1 tsp Active dry yeast (Khameer)
- 1 tsp Sugar (Cheeni)
- 1/2 tsp Salt (Namak)
- 1 tbsp Butter (Makkhan, preferably low-fat)
- 1/4 cup Warm water (Gunguna paani)
- 1 tsp Sesame seeds (Til, for garnish)
- 1 tsp Oil (Tel, for greasing)
Step-by-step instructions
Step 1 · Activate yeast by mixing active dry yeast
Activate yeast by mixing active dry yeast, sugar, and warm water in a bowl. Let it sit for 5-7 minutes until frothy.
Step 2 · In a large mixing bowl
In a large mixing bowl, combine atta, salt, and the activated yeast. Add low-fat milk gradually and knead into a soft dough.
Step 3 · Grease the bowl with oil and cover the dough
Grease the bowl with oil and cover the dough. Allow it to rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled.
Step 4 · Divide the dough into equal portions
Divide the dough into equal portions, shape into oval pav rolls, and place them on a greased baking tray. Optionally, sprinkle sesame seeds on top.
Step 5 · Preheat the oven to 180°C (356°F) or heat a tawa on medium
Preheat the oven to 180°C (356°F) or heat a tawa on medium. Bake pav for 15-20 minutes until golden. For tawa, cover and cook, turning occasionally for even color.
Step 6 · Remove from oven/tawa and brush pav with melted butter while still ...
Remove from oven/tawa and brush pav with melted butter while still warm for flavor and shine.
Step 7 · Serve warm Butter Pav with chutney
Serve warm Butter Pav with chutney, sabzi, or enjoy as is.
Why this recipe is healthy
By choosing whole wheat flour and low-fat dairy, Butter Pav becomes a healthier lunch option, suitable for calorie tracking diets. It supports digestive health, helps regulate blood sugar, and keeps you fuller for longer. The recipe avoids excessive butter and sugar, making it heart-friendly while retaining traditional taste. This healthy Butter Pav recipe is ideal for those seeking authentic Indian flavors without compromising on nutrition.
A note on tradition
Butter Pav is a signature element of Mumbai’s street food culture, often enjoyed with Pav Bhaji, Vada Pav, or Misal. Traditionally baked in local bakeries and sold fresh, pav is a staple in Maharashtrian households, especially during festivals like Ganesh Chaturthi and Diwali. The recipe has regional variations, with Gujarat favoring slightly sweeter pav. Butter Pav is versatile, served at lunches, parties, and family gatherings across West India.