Brioche Cheese Sandwich Recipe – Chaat Masala & Chutney Toastie

Last Updated on 2 months by Neha Deshmukh

Brioche Cheese Sandwich Recipe – Chaat Masala & Chutney Toastie

Okay, let’s be real. Sometimes you just need a really good sandwich. And not just any sandwich, but one that’s a little bit special, a little bit unexpected, and totally comforting. This Brioche Cheese Sandwich with Chaat Masala and Chutney is exactly that. I first made this when I was craving something savory, tangy, and a little bit spicy, and honestly, it’s been a regular in my kitchen ever since! It’s quick, easy, and the flavor combination is seriously addictive.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This isn’t your average grilled cheese. The soft, buttery brioche bread takes things up a notch, while the chaat masala adds a delightful zing. Then you’ve got the sweet and tangy chutneys, and of course, the melty, gooey cheese. It’s a flavor explosion in every bite! Plus, it comes together in under 15 minutes – perfect for a quick lunch, a satisfying snack, or even a light dinner.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this amazing sandwich:

• 2 slices brioche bread
• ¼ cup shredded mozzarella cheese (about 30g)
• 1-2 tbsp cilantro-mint chutney (adjust to your spice preference)
• 1-2 tbsp mango chutney (adjust to your sweetness preference)
• ¼ tsp ghee (about 1.5ml)
• ¼ tsp chaat masala

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk about a few key ingredients to make sure you get the best results:

• Brioche Bread: This is key for the texture. It’s soft, slightly sweet, and toasts up beautifully. If you can’t find brioche, challah bread is a good substitute, though it won’t have quite the same richness.
• Chaat Masala: This is a quintessential Indian spice blend – tangy, savory, and slightly fruity. It’s what gives this sandwich its unique kick! You can find it at most Indian grocery stores, or online.
• Cilantro-Mint Chutney: Fresh is best! Homemade is amazing, but a good quality store-bought chutney works too. The freshness really brightens up the sandwich.
• Ghee: Ghee (clarified butter) adds a lovely nutty flavor and helps the bread get beautifully golden brown. If you don’t have ghee, you can use butter, but ghee really elevates the taste. In India, ghee is considered sacred and is used in many traditional dishes and ceremonies.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get cooking!

1. Heat a cast iron pan (or any heavy-bottomed skillet) over medium-low heat. Add the ghee and let it melt.
2. Sprinkle the chaat masala evenly on one side of each slice of brioche bread. This is where the magic happens!
3. Now for the layering. On the non-spiced side of one bread slice, spread a generous layer of mozzarella cheese. Then, dollop on the cilantro-mint chutney and mango chutney. Add another layer of cheese on top.
4. Top with the second slice of bread, spiced side facing out.
5. Carefully place the sandwich in the heated pan. Cover with a lid and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and crispy.
6. Flip the sandwich carefully using a spatula. Cook uncovered for another 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and gooey.
7. Remove from the heat, slice diagonally, and serve immediately. I love serving this with a warm bowl of tomato soup!

Expert Tips

• Don’t overcrowd the pan! Cook one sandwich at a time for even browning.
• Keep the heat on medium-low. This ensures the cheese melts completely without burning the bread.
• A lid is your friend! It traps the heat and helps the cheese melt faster.

Variations

Want to switch things up? Here are a few ideas:

• Spice Level Adjustment: If you like it extra spicy, add a pinch of red chili powder to the chaat masala. My friend, Priya, always adds a dash of cayenne pepper!
• Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses! Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even a little bit of paneer would be delicious.
• Bread Alternatives: While brioche is my go-to, you can use sourdough, whole wheat, or even a good quality white bread.
• Festival/Brunch Adaptations: Cut the sandwich into smaller triangles and serve as an appetizer at a party. It’s always a hit!
• Vegan Option: Use plant-based mozzarella cheese and vegan butter instead of ghee. It’s just as tasty!

Serving Suggestions

This sandwich is fantastic on its own, but here are a few ideas to complete the meal:

• Tomato soup (a classic pairing!)
• A side salad with a light vinaigrette
• A cup of masala chai

Storage Instructions

This sandwich is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.

FAQs

Let’s answer some common questions:

• Is brioche bread necessary for this recipe? While brioche is highly recommended for its flavor and texture, you can substitute with challah or another soft bread.
• Can I make this sandwich ahead of time? It’s best to assemble and cook the sandwich right before serving. Assembling ahead of time can make the bread soggy.
• What is chaat masala and where can I find it? Chaat masala is a tangy and savory spice blend commonly used in Indian cuisine. You can find it at Indian grocery stores or online retailers.
• Can I use a different type of chutney? Absolutely! Tamarind chutney or even a spicy garlic chutney would be delicious.
• How can I adjust the spice level of this sandwich? Add a pinch of red chili powder or cayenne pepper to the chaat masala for extra heat.
• What is the best way to reheat leftover sandwich? Reheat in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few minutes, or in a toaster oven until warmed through and crispy.