These Bombay-Style Sandwiches are the perfect picnic companions, offering an explosion of taste and a delightful escape from the ordinary. It’s a bite full of creamy cheese, juicy tomatoes, and crisp cucumbers nestled between soft white bread. But this isn’t your ordinary sandwich. The secret lies in the vibrant green chutney, a harmonious blend of toasted peanuts, fresh cilantro, mint, and a touch of heat from red chili. So, pack a basket, gather your friends, and embark on a culinary adventure with these irresistible sandwiches.
What are Bombay-Style Sandwiches?
Bombay-style sandwiches, also known as Mumbai sandwiches, are a popular and delicious vegetarian street food originating from the city of Mumbai (formerly Bombay) in India. They typically feature soft white bread, some type of chutney, fresh vegetables such as cucumber, tomato, a layer of cheese, and sometimes onion. While we chose not to grill or broil our sandwiches, you can experiment with grilling for an added textual component and to help melt the cheese.
Bombay-Style Sandwiches with Peanut Mint Cilantro Chutney Recipe
Bombay-Style Sandwiches Ingredients
For the chutney
- 1 tsp coriander seeds
- 1 dried red chili
- 1 cup peanuts, pan-toasted
- 1 cup cilantro, chopped
- ½ cup mint leaves, chopped
- ½ white onion, diced
- 1 ½ tbsp ginger, peeled and grated
- 2 tsp tamarind paste
- Salt to taste
- Sprinkle of dark brown sugar
For the sandwiches
- White sandwich bread, crusts removed
- Unsalted butter, softened
- Tomatoes, sliced
- Amul cheese slices or other mild white cheese slices
- Cucumber, thinly sliced
Sandwich Preparation Instructions
- First, grind the coriander seeds and red chili in a spice grinder. Then add the ground spices to a blender with the toasted peanuts. Blend until the peanuts are powdered. Then add the remaining ingredients and blend together until it forms a smooth paste. Set aside.
- Next, to assemble the sandwiches, spread a thick layer of softened butter on each slice of bread. Then spread a layer of the chutney, followed by the sliced tomatoes, cheese, and cucumber.
- Close and cut the sandwich diagonally before serving. Grill or broil briefly if desired.
All About Tamarind Paste
Nestled within the heart of the tropical palate lies a flavor chameleon: tamarind paste. This concentrated essence captures the tamarind fruit, a combination of sweet and sour, leaving your taste buds both intrigued and delighted.
Tamarind paste isn’t just a one-trick pony. Its tangy punch adds a depth of flavor often described as a citrusy burst with a hint of sweetness. This versatility makes it a culinary treasure in both savory and sweet dishes. From the vibrant chutneys and curries of Indian cuisine to the unexpected tang it brings to glazes for grilled meats, tamarind paste knows no bounds. Imagine its complexity in marinades, or the intriguing twist it offers in cocktails and even desserts.
Wrap Up
When you’re looking for a fresh-filled bite, turn to our Bombay-Style Sandwiches with Peanut Mint Cilantro Chutney. This Indian street food gifts a symphony of flavors and textures perfect for picnics, potlucks, or a satisfying lunch on the go. So, grab your favorite bread, whip up a batch of the flavorful chutney, and embark on a delicious culinary journey.
Recipe by Veda Sankaran / Story by Kylie Thomas / Photography by Laura Petrilla
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