Vegan Masala Bread Toast (Iyengar Bakery-Style)

Masala bread toast is a popular Indian snack, especially in bakeries and street food stalls. 

Known for its spiced vegetable topping and crunchy bread base, this savory toast is easy to make and full of flavor. 

With just a few simple steps, you can recreate this vegan, bakery-style masala bread toast in your own kitchen. Here’s everything you need to get started.

Ingredients To Make Vegan Masala Bread Toast At Home

To make masala bread toast, you’ll need ingredients for both the bread and the masala topping.

For the Bread:

• 2 tablespoons vegan butter
• 6 slices of brown or sourdough bread (ensure it’s vegan)

For the Masala Topping:

• ½ tablespoon oil
• 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• ½ cup finely chopped onion
• ¼ cup finely chopped tomato
• ½ cup grated carrot
• ½ cup finely chopped capsicum
• ¼ cup finely chopped cabbage
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon turmeric powder
• ½ teaspoon Kashmiri chili powder
• ½ teaspoon garam masala powder
• ½ teaspoon chaat masala powder
• 1 tablespoon tomato ketchup (ensure it’s vegan)
• 2 tablespoons finely chopped coriander leaves

How To Make Vegan Masala Bread Toast

Now that you have your ingredients, let’s cook them!

1. Prepare the Tadka: Heat oil in a pan, then add mustard and cumin seeds. Let them crackle for a few seconds to release their flavor.
2. Cook the Onions and Tomatoes: Add the chopped onions to the pan, sautéing until soft. Then, add the tomatoes and cook until they’re slightly softened.
3. Add Vegetables: Stir in the grated carrot, chopped capsicum, and cabbage. Sauté for a few minutes, then add salt, turmeric powder, chili powder, and garam masala. Mix well and let cook for another couple of minutes.
4. Add Ketchup and Coriander: Stir in the vegan tomato ketchup, mixing thoroughly. Add the chopped coriander leaves and stir well. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, then turn off the heat.
5. Toast the Bread: While the masala cools slightly, spread vegan butter on both sides of the bread slices. Toast them under a grill or on a stovetop pan until they’re golden brown and crispy.
6. Assemble the Toast: Spread a generous amount of masala topping on each slice of toast. Serve them as open-faced sandwiches for that classic Iyengar bakery look.

Masala bread toast is best enjoyed hot. Serve it as a quick snack, a side dish, or even a light meal!

What to Serve with Masala Bread Toast

Masala bread toast is delicious on its own but can be paired with other Indian dishes or snacks. It goes well with:

• Curry: Serve it alongside a mild curry as an alternative to naan or flatbread.
• Sharing Platter: Combine it with other Indian snacks like pakoras, samosas, or chutneys for a variety of flavors and textures.

Why Masala Bread Toast is So Popular

Masala bread toast is loved for several reasons:

• Convenient for Takeaway: This easy-to-eat snack is popular in bakeries and street food stalls, making it ideal for people on the go.
• Simple to Make: It requires minimal prep and cooking time, making it a perfect homemade snack.
• Affordable Ingredients: The ingredients are budget-friendly, making this a great option for anyone looking to enjoy tasty food without spending too much.
• Rich in Flavor: The combination of spices and vegetables creates a complex, savory flavor profile that’s incredibly satisfying.

Can This Recipe Be Customized?

Absolutely! Here are some popular variations:

• Extra Spice: Add extra chili powder or finely chopped green chilies if you like it spicier.
• Add Protein: Mix in tofu or chickpeas to make it a more filling snack.
• Different Bread Options: Use your favorite vegan bread, such as gluten-free or whole grain, to suit your preferences.

Final Thoughts

Masala bread toast is a tasty, versatile snack that’s easy to make and perfect for any time of day. 

With a few basic ingredients, you can bring the flavors of an Iyengar bakery right into your kitchen. 

Whether you’re serving it alone or as part of a larger meal, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.

Frequently Asked Questions