Bombay Sandwich – Indian Street Style

Step 1: Prepare Sandwich Masala

In a pan, dry roast fennel seeds, cumin seeds, cloves, black peppercorns, and cinnamon stick until fragrant and the cinnamon becomes crispy (approximately 1-2 minutes). Let the spices cool down completely. Transfer the cooled spices to a grinder and add black salt, Kashmiri red chili powder, dry mango powder, and salt. Grind everything into a fine powder.

Step 2: Prepare Bread Slices

Take three slices of bread. Spread a generous amount of butter evenly on one side of each bread slice.

Step 3: Apply Green Chutney

Spread the prepared green chutney generously over the buttered side of all three bread slices. (Note: The green chutney typically includes green coriander, garlic, ginger, green chili, salt, and cumin seeds, but no tomato).

Step 4: Assemble First Layer

On the first bread slice (chutney-side up), arrange boiled potato slices. Sprinkle a generous amount of the prepared sandwich masala over the potatoes.

Step 5: Assemble Second Layer

Place thin slices of onion over the potatoes. Sprinkle more sandwich masala. Carefully place the second bread slice (chutney-side down) on top of the onion layer.

Step 6: Assemble Third Layer

On the second bread slice (chutney-side up), arrange tomato slices. Sprinkle sandwich masala. Add cucumber slices, then paneer slices. Sprinkle grated cheese and a final layer of sandwich masala. Cover with the third bread slice (chutney-side down).

Step 7: Grill the Sandwich (First Side)

Heat a grill pan on medium-low heat and add a little ghee or butter. Place the assembled sandwich on the hot pan. To ensure even grilling and crispiness, place a plate on top of the sandwich and then a heavy object (like a stone) on the plate. Grill for approximately 3 minutes.

Step 8: Grill the Sandwich (Second Side)

After about 3 minutes, remove the heavy object and plate. Spread some butter on the top side of the sandwich. Carefully flip the sandwich using a spatula. Grill the second side until golden brown and crispy, pressing down as before (approximately 2-3 minutes).

Step 9: Serve the Sandwich

Remove the grilled sandwich from the pan. Place it on a cutting board and cut diagonally into two triangles. Serve immediately with green chutney and tomato ketchup.

• Do not skip the homemade sandwich masala, it significantly enhances the flavor.

• Press the sandwich firmly while grilling to ensure even cooking and a crispy texture.

• Grill the sandwich on a low flame for best results and to prevent burning.

• Adjust the quantity of cinnamon in the sandwich masala to your preference.

• Use either butter or ghee for grilling the sandwich.

• Experiment with other vegetables like bell peppers or beetroot slices.

• Add more cheese between layers for an extra cheesy sandwich.