Few dishes capture the spirit of Indian street food quite like keema pav. This flavorful combination of spicy minced meat served with soft buttery buns has become a beloved meal across cities, homes, and restaurants. Known for its rich aroma, comforting texture, and satisfying taste, this dish is perfect for breakfast, lunch, dinner, or even a late-night snack.
At Saagar, we celebrate dishes that bring warmth, nostalgia, and bold flavors to the table. This recipe reflects that philosophy — simple ingredients transformed into a hearty and memorable experience.
What is Keema Pav?
This popular dish consists of minced meat cooked in a spiced onion-tomato gravy and served alongside toasted pav (soft bread rolls). Originating from street food culture, it gained popularity because of its affordability, quick preparation, and rich taste.
Traditionally, lamb or goat mince is used, but modern variations include chicken and vegetarian adaptations. The magic lies in the masala base, where slow cooking allows spices to blend deeply with the meat, creating a thick, flavorful curry that pairs beautifully with buttered bread.
Why Keema Pav is So Popular
There are several reasons why this dish has earned a permanent place in restaurant menus and home kitchens:
1. Rich Flavor Profile
The combination of whole spices, caramelized onions, and tomatoes creates a bold, comforting taste.
2. Quick Yet Satisfying
Despite its depth of flavor, the recipe is relatively quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy days.
3. Versatile Serving Options
It can be served as a snack, main course, or party dish with minimal adjustments.
4. Crowd-Pleaser
Soft bread and savory minced curry appeal to both adults and children.
At Saagar, this dish represents the perfect balance between simplicity and indulgence.
Ingredients for Keema Pav Recipe
For the Keema
- 500 g minced meat (mutton or chicken)
- 2 medium onions (finely chopped)
- 2 tomatoes (chopped)
- 2 green chilies (slit)
- 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
- ½ cup green peas (optional)
- 2 tbsp cooking oil
- Fresh coriander leaves
Spice Mix
- 1 tsp cumin seeds
- 1 tsp turmeric powder
- 1 tsp red chili powder
- 1 tsp coriander powder
- ½ tsp garam masala
- Salt to taste
For Serving
- Soft pav buns
- Butter
- Lemon wedges
- Sliced onions
How to Make Keema Pav
Step 1: Prepare the Base
Heat oil in a pan and add cumin seeds. Once aromatic, sauté chopped onions until golden brown. This step builds the foundation of flavor.
Step 2: Add Aromatics
Stir in ginger-garlic paste and cook until the raw smell disappears. Add green chilies for mild heat.
Step 3: Cook Tomatoes and Spices
Add tomatoes and cook until soft and oil begins to separate. Mix in turmeric, chili powder, coriander powder, and salt.
Step 4: Cook the Minced Meat
Add the minced meat and cook on medium heat, breaking lumps while stirring. The meat releases moisture and absorbs the masala gradually.
Step 5: Simmer
Add green peas and a little water, cover, and simmer until the meat is tender and the gravy thickens.
Step 6: Finish and Garnish
Sprinkle garam masala and fresh coriander. Squeeze a little lemon for brightness.
Step 7: Toast the Pav
Slice pav buns and toast with butter on a hot pan until lightly crisp.
Serve hot with sliced onions and lemon wedges for a complete experience.
Tips for Restaurant-Style Flavor
- Slow cooking enhances taste: Allow the meat to simmer so spices infuse fully.
- Butter elevates richness: Toasting pav in butter adds aroma and texture.
- Balance spice and tanginess: Lemon juice at the end lifts flavors.
- Fresh garnish matters: Coriander and onions provide freshness and crunch.
These small details help recreate restaurant-style results at home.
For a lighter alternative, chicken mince works beautifully. The preparation remains identical, but cooking time is shorter since chicken cooks faster. The result is a milder yet equally delicious dish that many diners prefer for its lighter texture.
This dish can be enjoyed in multiple ways:
- As a hearty breakfast with buttered buns
- As a lunch paired with salad
- As a dinner alongside rice or flatbread
- As a party appetizer served in mini buns
Its adaptability makes it suitable for casual dining as well as special gatherings.
Keema Pav at Saagar
Minced meat provides protein and essential nutrients, while the bread offers carbohydrates for energy. The addition of peas and onions contributes fiber and vitamins. Portion control and moderate butter use can help maintain balance while still enjoying the dish’s indulgent nature.
At Saagar, we focus on authentic preparation, fresh ingredients, and consistent flavor. Our version reflects street-style charm combined with restaurant-level quality. Every serving is cooked to deliver warmth, spice, and comfort in every bite, making it a favorite among guests seeking satisfying meals.
FAQs
What is keema pav?
It is a dish made with spiced minced meat curry served with soft buttered bread rolls. It is widely enjoyed as street food and comfort food.
How to make chicken keema pav?
Simply replace mutton mince with chicken mince and follow the same cooking steps. Chicken cooks faster and creates a lighter yet flavorful variation.