Just like every Mumbaikar, I grew up eating this sandwich and it’s one of my favorite street foods from Mumbai. I can never get bored of it. No trip to Mumbai is complete without enjoying this street side sandwich. After several attempts of trying to make my homemade sandwich taste just like the one you get back home, I can safely say I have mastered this recipe and I can proudly share it with you. LET’S BE FRIENDS ON PINTEREST! WE’RE ALWAYS PINNING TASTY RECIPES Today let me share with you the secret of making your homemade Sandwich just like the one from Mumbai.
What makes Bombay Sandwich so unique?
Mumbai Sandwich is not just a sandwich, it’s an experience, a bite of the city’s diverse heritage and culinary innovation. Each element, from the soft slices of white bread to the spread of the special sandwich chutney and the sprinkling of special sandwich masala, an the layers of vegetables inside, contributes to its uniqueness. Each bite is an explosion of flavors, contrasting textures and the freedom for endless customizations makes the Bombay Sandwich, truly one-of-a-kind.
Ingredients to make Mumbai Sandwich
To make the authentic street style sandwich, you need to focus on 4 things.
Bread, choosing the right bread is crucial, as it sets the stage for authenticity. Pick a good white bread. I often also use a sourdough and it tastes good too. Sandwich Chutney - This is the first secret ingredient. Most recipes call for the use of the green cilantro chutney, simply because it is readily available. However for an authentic kick I have shared the sandwich chutney recipe in the recipe card below. Sandwich Masala - This is our second secret ingredient. The sandwich won’t be the same without this masala. I usually get my stock when I visit India, but when I run out, I have started making my own. I am sharing the recipe of the Sandwich Masala in the recipe card too. Stuffing - The fillings are nothing short of a vibrant palette of colors, textures, and flavors. Thinly sliced and stacked high. They include juicy tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, piquant red onions, boiled beetroot slices for a sweet and earthy note and boiled potatoes lend a comforting heft.
Preparation for the Sandwich
Making the Sandwich Masala
You can always use a store bought sandwich masala but if you don’t have access to sandwich masala, here is how you make your own. On a pan dry roast, cumin seeds, peppercorns, fennel seeds, until aromatic. Transfer into a grinder and grind into a fine powder. Now add dry mango powder, dried pomegranate seeds, asafoetida, black salt, mix all the ingredients well and your sandwich masala is ready. I have shared the quantities in the recipe card below.
Making the Sandwich Chutney
You can always use the green chutney that is readily available in your refrigerator, but for authenticity, make this sandwich chutney. It’s totally worth it and just takes like 5 minutes. Take a handful of fresh spinach and cook it in a pan until wilted. To a blender, add cilantro, green chilies, wilted spinach, sandwich masala, roasted channa dal and some water to make a thick chutney the consistency of a paste. This is to make sure the bread doesn’t get soggy.
Preparing for the Sandwich Filling
Make sure your thinly and evenly slice your veggies. This will help in assembling the sandwich properly.
Step by Step Recipe to make Mumbai Sandwich
Take 4 slices of bread and cut the sides of the bread. Spread butter on the open faces of the bread. Next, generously spread the green sandwich chutney on all slices. On two slices, start layering the vegetables in the order of cucumbers, potatoes, tomatoes, beets and onions. Alternate each layer of vegetables with a sprinkle of sandwich masala. Now place the other slices of bread atop and gently press it. Using a knife slice the sandwich into halves or quarters or triangles. Serve it on a plate with the sandwich chutney and ketchup. Enjoy.
Tips to make the best Bombay Sandwich
Using a sandwich bread it always preferred. The green sandwich chutney should be thick and pasty instead of runny or else it will make the sandwich soggy. Make sure the vegetables are thinly and evenly sliced. When layering the sandwich, start with sturdier vegetables like cucumbers or beets. Always layer the tomato in the middle of the stack to avoid the bread from adding moisture and making the bread soggy.
Variations and customizing your Mumbai Sandwich
Bombay Sandwiches embraces personalization with open arms, allowing you to tailor them to your taste buds or to simply experiment with whatever you have on hand.
To grill or not to grill - it’s entirely your discretion. Grilling transforms the sandwich into a toasty, melty treat with a delightful crunch in every bite. Feel free to add some bell peppers, or aloo masala (potato stuffing) or cheese to take your sandwich to the next level. You can also add some left over veggies into your sandwich but then it won’t be an authentic Mumbai Sandwich. You can even simply just make chutney cheese sandwich or cucumber chutney sandwiches, which are also the pride of Mumbai.
Pairing Suggestions for Bombay Sandwich
Ofcouorse serving sandwich chutney and ketchup on the side are a must. Nothing beats serving this Sandwich with chai (Indian tea). I even like it with a good ginger masala lemonade or watermelon juice.
Can I make this recipe vegan and gluten-free?
Yes you can use a vegan butter or cheese and swap to a gluten-free bread.
What other breads can I use to make this Bombay Sandwich recipe?
While white bread is the traditional bread used for this recipe, you can experiment with whole wheat bread, or a multigrain bread, or a brioche. I have often tried making these sandwiches on my Ciabatta bread and they turned out good too.
Can I use any other masala to make this sandwich?
While you can use any other seasoning to add to your sandwich, you won’t enjoy the taste of Bombay until you add this specific sandwich masala. Ready to enjoy the authentic flavors of Mumbai? Here’s a handy recipe card to guide you through each step of crafting this Mumbai street food classic. this recipe is bound to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire. Keep it on hand for those days when you crave a slice of Mumbai life! More Sandwich recipe you might like
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Using a sandwich bread it always preferred.The green sandwich chutney should be thick and pasty instead of runny or else it will make the sandwich soggy.Make sure the vegetables are thinly and evenly sliced.When layering the sandwich, start with sturdier vegetables like cucumbers or beets. Always layer the tomato in the middle of the stack to avoid the bread from adding moisture and making the bread soggy.
