Masala Bread Recipe – Indian Street Food with Tomato Ketchup

Last Updated on 4 months by Neha Deshmukh

Masala Bread Recipe – Indian Street Food with Tomato Ketchup

Introduction

Oh, Masala Bread! This one takes me right back to rainy afternoons spent wandering the streets of Mumbai. It’s the kind of snack that just hits different – crispy, spicy, tangy, and utterly addictive. I first made this at home trying to recreate those street-side flavors, and honestly, it’s become a family favorite. It’s so quick and easy, perfect for a last-minute craving or a fun little treat. You won’t believe how something so simple can taste so incredible!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Masala Bread isn’t your average snack. It’s a delightful fusion of flavors and textures. The soft bread soaks up all the spicy, tangy masala, creating a burst of taste in every bite. Plus, it’s ready in under 20 minutes! It’s a fantastic way to use up leftover bread and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Seriously, who can resist?

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this deliciousness:

• 4 bread slices (slices)
• 1 tablespoon oil (tablespoon)
• ½ teaspoon cumin seeds (teaspoon)
• 2 small green chilies
• Few curry leaves
• 1 teaspoon ginger garlic paste (teaspoon)
• 1 medium onion, sliced
• 1 small tomato, chopped
• ¼ teaspoon turmeric powder (teaspoon)
• 1 teaspoon Kashmiri red chili powder (teaspoon)
• ½ teaspoon coriander powder (teaspoon)
• ½ teaspoon garam masala powder (teaspoon)
• ¼ cup water (cup)
• 1 tablespoon tomato ketchup (tablespoon)
• 2 teaspoon coriander leaves (teaspoon)
• Salt to taste

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk ingredients! A few things make this recipe special.

• Kashmiri Red Chili Powder: Don’t skip this if you can help it! It gives the masala a beautiful, vibrant red color without adding too much heat. If you can’t find it, regular chili powder will work, but you might want to reduce the amount.
• Garam Masala: This is the heart and soul of Indian cooking. It’s a blend of warming spices that adds a lovely depth of flavor. Every brand is a little different, so feel free to use your favorite!
• Tomato Ketchup: Yes, you read that right! This is a bit of a quirky addition, but it’s what gives this Masala Bread its unique street food vibe. It adds a lovely tanginess that balances the spices perfectly. Trust me on this one!

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get cooking!

1. First, cut your 4 bread slices into small squares. Just bite-sized pieces are perfect. Set them aside for now.
2. Heat the 1 tablespoon of oil in a pan over medium heat. Once it’s hot, add the ½ teaspoon of cumin seeds. Let them crackle – you’ll know they’re ready when they start to sizzle and release their aroma.
3. Toss in a few curry leaves and the 2 small green chilies. Sauté for just a few seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the chilies!
4. Now, add the sliced 1 medium onion and 1 teaspoon of ginger garlic paste. Add a pinch of salt to help the onions soften. Sauté until the onions turn translucent and slightly golden.
5. Add the 1 small chopped tomato and cook until it softens and the raw smell disappears. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes.
6. Time for the spices! Add the ¼ teaspoon turmeric powder, 1 teaspoon Kashmiri red chili powder, ½ teaspoon coriander powder, and ½ teaspoon garam masala powder. Sauté for about 30 seconds, stirring constantly, to prevent burning.
7. Pour in the ¼ cup of water and the 1 tablespoon of tomato ketchup. Bring the mixture to a boil and let it simmer for about a minute.
8. Gently toss the bread squares into the masala, making sure each piece is well coated. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the bread is heated through and slightly crispy.
9. Finally, garnish with 2 teaspoons of fresh coriander leaves and serve hot!

Expert Tips

• Don’t overcrowd the pan! If you’re making a large batch, work in batches to ensure the bread gets properly coated and crispy.
• For extra flavor, you can add a squeeze of lemon juice at the end.
• If the masala gets too dry, add a splash of water.

Variations

• Spice Level Adjustment:
  • Mild: Reduce the green chilies to 1 or omit them altogether. Use less Kashmiri red chili powder.
  • Medium: Follow the recipe as written.
  • Hot: Add an extra green chili or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
• Festival Adaptations – Rainy Day Snack: This is perfect for a cozy rainy day! Pair it with a hot cup of chai. My family loves it during the monsoon season.
• Bread Type Variations:
  • Brown Bread: Adds a slightly nutty flavor.
  • Whole Wheat Bread: A healthier option, but it might be a little denser.

Serving Suggestions

Masala Bread is fantastic on its own as a snack. But it also pairs well with a cup of hot chai or a side of yogurt. It’s also a great addition to a larger Indian meal.

Storage Instructions

This is best enjoyed fresh! However, if you have any leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a day. Reheat in a pan or microwave before serving. They won’t be as crispy, but still tasty!

FAQs

• Is this recipe suitable for kids? You can definitely make it kid-friendly by reducing or omitting the green chilies.
• Can I make this ahead of time? It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the masala base ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just add the bread when you’re ready to serve.
• What type of bread works best? White bread is traditional, but you can experiment with other types.
• Can I use dried spices instead of fresh green chilies? Yes, you can use a pinch of chili flakes or cayenne pepper as a substitute.
• What is Kashmiri Red Chili Powder and can I substitute it? It’s a type of chili powder known for its vibrant color and mild heat. If you can’t find it, regular chili powder will work, but you might want to use less.