Masala Bread Recipe – Quick Indian Street Food Toast

Last Updated on 4 months by Neha Deshmukh

Masala Bread Recipe – Quick Indian Street Food Toast

Hey everyone! If you’re anything like me, you’re always on the lookout for a quick, flavorful snack that hits all the right spots. This Masala Bread recipe is exactly that. It’s a total comfort food, inspired by the vibrant street food scene in India, and it comes together in under 10 minutes. Seriously! I first made this when I was craving pav bhaji but didn’t have time to make the full dish – and it’s been a family favorite ever since.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Masala Bread is the perfect blend of spicy, tangy, and buttery goodness. It’s a fantastic way to use up leftover bread, and it’s incredibly satisfying. Plus, it’s super customizable – you can adjust the spice level to your liking and add your favorite veggies. It’s a little slice of Indian street food happiness, right in your kitchen!

Ingredients

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

• 5 bread slices (slice)
• 2 tsp butter
• 2 garlic cloves (clove)
• 1 green chilli (piece)
• 2 tbsp spring onion
• 1 cup onion
• 1 cup carrot
• 2 tbsp cabbage
• 2 tbsp capsicum
• 2 tomato (piece)
• 1 tsp pav bhaji masala
• Salt to taste (tsp)
• 2 tbsp tomato sauce

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk ingredients for a sec! A few things make this recipe sing:

• Pav Bhaji Masala: This is key. It’s the heart and soul of the flavor. You can find it at most Indian grocery stores, or online. It’s a blend of spices that gives this dish its signature taste.
• Bread: Traditionally, this is made with pav – a soft, fluffy Indian bread roll. But honestly, any bread works! White bread, whole wheat, or even a slightly stale loaf will do. If you can find pav, definitely use it, though! It just adds that authentic touch.
• Vegetables: Feel free to get creative here! The beauty of Indian cooking is its adaptability. While I love the classic combo of carrot, cabbage, and capsicum, you can easily swap in other veggies based on what you have on hand.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get cooking!

1. First, cut your bread slices into square pieces. If you like a super crispy texture, you can lightly toast them. Totally optional, but I often do!
2. Next, heat the butter in a kadai or pan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic, chopped green chilli, spring onion, and chopped onion. Sauté until everything is fragrant and the onions are translucent – about 2-3 minutes.
3. Now, add the chopped carrot, cabbage, and capsicum. Sprinkle in a little salt. Sauté until the vegetables are tender-crisp. We don’t want them mushy!
4. Stir in the chopped tomatoes and cook until they soften. Then, add the pav bhaji masala and the remaining salt. Mix well to combine.
5. Pour in the tomato sauce and blend everything together. This is where the magic happens! Now, gently toss the bread pieces into the masala, making sure they’re nicely coated.
6. Finally, garnish with fresh coriander leaves. Serve immediately with a hot cup of chai – it’s the perfect pairing!

Expert Tips

• Don’t overcrowd the pan! Work in batches if necessary to ensure the vegetables cook evenly.
• Taste as you go! Adjust the salt and spice level to your preference.
• For extra flavor, add a squeeze of lemon juice at the end.

Variations

This recipe is a blank canvas for your creativity! Here are a few ideas:

• Spice Level: My family likes it medium-hot, but you can easily adjust it. Use less green chilli for mild, or add a pinch of red chilli powder for extra heat.
• Bread Type: Pav is amazing, but regular bread works perfectly well. My friend, Priya, swears by using brioche for an extra decadent treat!
• Vegetable Additions: Peas and potatoes are fantastic additions. My mom always adds a handful of frozen peas towards the end of cooking.
• Festival Adaptations: This is a huge hit at Diwali and Holi parties. Make a big batch and serve it as a fun, casual street food-style snack.

Serving Suggestions

Masala Bread is best enjoyed hot and fresh! It’s perfect as:

• A quick breakfast or brunch
• An afternoon snack
• A side dish with your favorite Indian meal
• A party appetizer

Storage Instructions

Honestly, this is best eaten immediately. But if you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a day. Just be aware that the bread will lose some of its crispness. Reheat gently in a pan or microwave before serving.

FAQs

Let’s answer some common questions:

• Is this recipe suitable for a quick breakfast? Absolutely! It’s fast, flavorful, and filling.
• Can I make this ahead of time? Not really. The bread gets soggy if it sits in the masala for too long. It’s best to make it fresh.
• What is the best type of bread to use for Masala Bread? Pav is traditional, but any bread will work.
• Can I adjust the spice level? Yes! Easily. Use more or less green chilli, or add a pinch of red chilli powder.
• What is Pav Bhaji Masala and where can I find it? It’s a blend of spices that gives this dish its signature flavor. You can find it at most Indian grocery stores or online.