Vegetable Cheese Toast Sandwich Recipe – Easy Indian Street Food

Last Updated on 2 months by Neha Deshmukh

Vegetable Cheese Toast Sandwich Recipe – Easy Indian Street Food

Hey everyone! If you’re anything like me, sometimes you just crave something quick, comforting, and utterly delicious. This Vegetable Cheese Toast Sandwich is exactly that. I first made this when I was a student and needed a fast, filling meal – and it’s been a family favourite ever since! It’s basically Indian street food made right in your kitchen. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This isn’t just any toast sandwich. It’s packed with flavour from fresh veggies, a little spice, and a generous helping of melted cheese. It’s super easy to make, perfect for a speedy breakfast, a light lunch, or even a satisfying evening snack. Plus, it’s totally customizable – you can swap out the veggies for whatever you have on hand. Honestly, what’s not to love?

Ingredients

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

• 6-7 bread slices
• 1 teaspoon oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 1 medium tomato, chopped
• ½ green capsicum, chopped
• Salt to taste
• ½ – 1 teaspoon red chilli flakes (adjust to your spice preference!)
• 1 teaspoon basil and oregano leaves (dried or fresh)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper powder
• ½ cup tomato ketchup
• ½ cup grated cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix!)
• 1 teaspoon butter

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk ingredients! The beauty of this recipe is how flexible it is. Don’t worry if you don’t have capsicum – feel free to use whatever veggies you like.

• Cheese: Cheddar gives a classic flavour, mozzarella is wonderfully stretchy, and a mix of both is just chef’s kiss. You can even experiment with a little paneer if you’re feeling adventurous!
• Veggies: I love using readily available veggies like onion, tomato, and capsicum, but you can add grated carrots, finely chopped spinach, or even some mushrooms.
• Spice: Red chilli flakes are optional, but they add a lovely little kick. Start with ½ teaspoon and add more if you like things spicy.
• Bread: Any bread will work, but a slightly thicker slice holds up better to all the fillings.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get down to business!

1. Sauté the Veggies: Heat the oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for a minute or two until it starts to soften. Then, toss in the tomato and capsicum. Add salt, red chilli flakes, basil, oregano, and black pepper. Sauté for another 2-3 minutes until the veggies are tender-crisp. Remove from heat and set aside.
2. Ketchup Base: Spread a generous layer of tomato ketchup evenly on each bread slice. This adds a lovely sweetness and helps keep the sandwich from getting dry.
3. Veggie & Cheese Time: Top the ketchup-covered bread slices with the sautéed vegetable mixture. Don’t be shy! Then, sprinkle a generous amount of grated cheese over the veggies. More cheese = more happiness, right?
4. Toast it Up: Heat the butter on a tawa (flat griddle) or frying pan over low heat. Place the bread slices on the tawa, cover with a lid, and cook for about 3 minutes. This helps the cheese melt beautifully.
5. Crisp it Up: Uncover the pan and cook for another 30 seconds or so, until the base of the sandwich is golden brown and crispy.
6. Serve & Enjoy: Serve hot with extra ketchup or your favourite sauce.

Expert Tips

• Low and Slow: Cooking on low heat is key to melting the cheese without burning the bread.
• Don’t Overcrowd: If you’re making a big batch, work in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.
• Butter is Best: Butter gives the sandwich a lovely golden colour and adds extra flavour.

Variations

• My Family’s Favourite: My kids love it when I add a little bit of sweetcorn to the veggie mix.
• Spicy Upgrade: For a real flavour bomb, add a pinch of garam masala to the vegetable mixture.
• Herby Goodness: Fresh coriander leaves sprinkled over the cheese before toasting take this sandwich to another level.

Vegan Adaptation

Want to make this vegan? No problem!

• Cheese: Use your favourite vegan cheese alternative. There are some great options available now that melt really well.
• Butter: Swap the butter for vegan butter or a little oil.

Gluten-Free Adaptation

Need a gluten-free version? Simply use your favourite gluten-free bread! It might toast a little faster, so keep a close eye on it.

Spice Level Adjustment

Don’t like too much heat? Reduce the amount of red chilli flakes, or leave them out altogether. If you like it fiery, add a pinch of cayenne pepper!

Quick Weekday Breakfast Variation

Short on time? Skip the sautéing and use leftover cooked vegetables from the night before. This sandwich can be on the table in under 10 minutes!

Serving Suggestions

This sandwich is delicious on its own, but here are a few ideas for serving it:

• With a side of fresh fruit salad.
• Alongside a bowl of creamy tomato soup.
• As part of a packed lunch.

Storage Instructions

Leftovers? (If there are any!) You can store leftover sandwiches in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Reheat in a pan or toaster oven for best results.

FAQs

Is this sandwich suitable for kids?

Absolutely! You can adjust the spice level to suit their taste.

Can I make this sandwich ahead of time?

You can prepare the vegetable mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Assemble and toast the sandwiches just before serving.

What type of cheese works best for this recipe?

Cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix of both are all great choices.

Can I use different vegetables in this sandwich?

Definitely! Feel free to experiment with your favourite veggies.

How can I make the sandwich base crispier?

Cook the sandwich on a slightly higher heat for a shorter amount of time, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.