Aye Hai! Bread Manchurian Sandwich: Your New Favourite Jugaad!
Namaste doston! Kem cho? Assalamualaikum! Sat Sri Akal! Chef Curry Do’pyaza here, back in your kitchens (virtually, of course!) with a recipe that’s going to make your taste buds sing a Bollywood tune!
We are diving headfirst into the delightful world of the Bread Manchurian Sandwich. It’s a fusion dish that’s as comforting as a warm hug from your nani and as exciting as the latest cricket match!
This vibrant creation is especially popular during those times when you want something quick, delicious, and satisfying. Think Diwali parties where you need a snack between all the mithai, Holi gatherings where you want something savory, or even just a rainy monsoon evening when you crave something warm and spicy. It’s a fantastic choice for kids’ lunchboxes, picnics, or a lazy weekend brunch.
A Little History Lesson (with a Twist!)
The story of Bread Manchurian Sandwich is a modern tale. It’s a child of the Indo-Chinese culinary revolution, born from the love of Manchurian (those addictive saucy balls of goodness!) and the convenience of bread. Someone, somewhere, probably on a very hungry day, decided to combine these two and voila! A star was born! It’s a testament to Indian ingenuity – a perfect example of jugaad (making the best out of what you have!).
Get Ready to Cook!
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
What You’ll Need (The सामान – Saamaan)
- For the Manchurian Filling:
- 1 cup Band Gobhi (Cabbage), finely chopped
- 1/2 cup Gajar (Carrot), grated
- 1/4 cup Shimla Mirch (Capsicum/Bell Pepper), finely chopped
- 2 Hari Mirch (Green Chillies), finely chopped (adjust to your spice level!)
- 1 inch Adrak (Ginger), grated
- 2 tbsp Maida (All-Purpose Flour)
- 1 tbsp Cornflour (Cornstarch)
- 1/2 tsp Lal Mirch Powder (Red Chilli Powder)
- 1/4 tsp Haldi Powder (Turmeric Powder)
- Salt to taste
- Oil for frying
- For the Manchurian Sauce:
- 1 tbsp Oil
- 1 tbsp Lehsun (Garlic), finely chopped
- 1 inch Adrak (Ginger), finely chopped
- 2 Hari Mirch (Green Chillies), finely chopped
- 2 tbsp Pyaz (Onion), finely chopped
- 1 tbsp Soy Sauce
- 1 tbsp Tomato Ketchup
- 1 tsp Green Chilli Sauce (optional)
- 1/2 tsp Vinegar
- 1/2 tsp Sugar
- 1/4 tsp Black Pepper Powder
- 1 tbsp Cornflour mixed with 2 tbsp water (slurry)
- For the Sandwich:
- 8 slices Bread (white or brown, your choice!)
- Butter or Ghee for toasting
Let’s Get Cooking! (The Recipe, Step-by-Step)
- Make the Manchurian Balls: In a large bowl, mix together the cabbage, carrot, capsicum, green chillies, ginger, all-purpose flour, cornflour, red chilli powder, turmeric powder, and salt. Mix well until everything comes together. If the mixture is too dry, add a tablespoon or two of water.
- Fry the Balls: Heat oil in a kadhai (wok) or deep frying pan. Once the oil is hot, carefully drop small spoonfuls of the vegetable mixture into the hot oil. Fry until golden brown and crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels.
- Prepare the Manchurian Sauce: Heat oil in a pan or wok. Add garlic, ginger, green chillies, and onion. Sauté for a minute until fragrant.
- Add the Sauces: Add soy sauce, tomato ketchup, green chilli sauce (if using), vinegar, sugar, and black pepper powder. Mix well and bring to a simmer.
- Thicken the Sauce: Pour in the cornflour slurry and stir continuously until the sauce thickens.
- Combine and Coat: Add the fried Manchurian balls to the sauce and toss gently to coat them evenly.
- Assemble the Sandwich: Butter or ghee one side of each bread slice. Spread a generous amount of the Manchurian mixture on four slices of bread. Top with the remaining bread slices, buttered side up.
- Toast the Sandwich: Heat a tava (griddle) or frying pan. Place the sandwiches on the hot tava and toast until golden brown and crispy on both sides. You can also use a sandwich maker or panini press.
- Serve Hot: Cut the sandwiches in half and serve immediately. Enjoy the explosion of flavors!
Chef’s Tips for a Perfect Sandwich
- Don’t overmix the vegetable mixture: Overmixing can make the Manchurian balls tough.
- Fry the balls in hot oil: This will ensure they are crispy on the outside and cooked through on the inside.
- Adjust the spice level to your liking: Feel free to add more or less green chillies and red chilli powder.
- Make the sauce ahead of time: You can prepare the Manchurian sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat it before adding the fried balls.
- Get creative with fillings: You can add other vegetables like mushrooms, cauliflower, or even paneer (Indian cheese) to the Manchurian mixture.
Cooking it Your Way!
- Gas Stove/Induction Stove: The traditional method works perfectly for this recipe. Just adjust the heat as needed.
- Air Fryer: You can air fry the Manchurian balls instead of deep-frying them. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Microwave: Not recommended for the entire recipe, but you can reheat the Manchurian filling in the microwave if needed.
- Oven: You can bake the Manchurian balls in the oven for a healthier alternative. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Nutritional Information (Approximate, per sandwich)
- Calories: 350-400
- Protein: 8-10g
- Carbohydrates: 40-45g
- Fat: 15-20g
Note: These values are approximate and can vary depending on the specific ingredients and portion sizes used.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a side of your favorite chutney (mint, coriander, or tamarind).
- Pair it with a cup of hot chai (tea) for the ultimate comfort food experience.
- Garnish with chopped coriander leaves for a fresh and vibrant touch.
Time to Get Cooking!
So there you have it! The Bread Manchurian Sandwich – a recipe that’s guaranteed to become a family favorite. I urge you to try this recipe at home. I know you will love this dish and so will your family. Share this recipe with your friends and family and spread the love. Until next time, happy cooking!
Your friend in the kitchen,
Chef Curry Do’pyaza!