• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
  • Skip to footer

Cookilicious logo

  • About
  • Recipes
  • Podcast
  • Collaborate
  • Shop
menu icon
go to homepage
search icon
Homepage link
  • About
  • Recipes
  • Collaborate
  • Podcast
  • Shop
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
    • Twitter
    • YouTube
  • ×

    Home » Breakfasts » Savory French Toast | Pudla Sandwich

    Published: Jan 28, 2021 · Modified: Jan 28, 2021 by Priya * This post may contain affiliate links.

    Savory French Toast | Pudla Sandwich

    Recipe Print
    one hand holding the plate while the other hand is dipping one Savory French Toast into a bowl of chutney and text at the bottom left
    Savory French Toast slices placed on a wooden board with a bowl of ketchup and chutney and text at the top and bottom
    a hand picking up one Savory French Toast from a stack and text at the top

    This delicious savory French Toast (without eggs) or Pudla Sandwich is a perfect vegan Indian recipe that you can make for breakfast/snack.

    It's nourishing, filling, and packed with flavors. Make this vegan snack recipe in just 30 minutes!

    a hand picking up one Savory French Toast from a stack

    A nutritious dish for all!

    Table of Contents

    • It's different than the traditional sandwich!
    • Trending now
    • Resembles a French Toast
    • Why make this
    • Ingredients needed
    • Here's how to make it
    • Serving Suggestions
    • Top tips, recommendations, and suggestions
    • Savory French Toast | Pudla Sandwich

    It's different than the traditional sandwich!

    Pudla Sandwich! Yes, that's what it's called in India. It's popular street food in Bombay. You will always find the stall very crowded where it's being served.

    Pudla or Poodla is a Gujarati word for Chilla and it means savory pancakes made with garbanzo flour or besan.

    We also call it Chilla Sandwich or Bread Pakora Sandwich. This dish has a cult following. Trust me when I am saying that!

    While it's a popular Indian vegan breakfast recipe, we also enjoy it as an evening snack.

    Trending now

    Resembles a French Toast

    To make French Toast, you need to soak bread in a milk and egg mixture, then fry it in oil or butter. Plus, it's mostly sweet to taste because it's made with vanilla and sugar.

    However, this snack recipe is a leaner, savory, and vegan take on this recipe. Here the bread is dipped in a spiced garbanzo flour batter and topped with veggies and cheese.

    This dish does remind me of Moong Dal Toast but since this one is not fried, this makes it to the weeknight menu while that suits the weekend/party menu!

    It also reminds me of my dad who would make us his version of French Toast on Sundays but without eggs. It would be sweet and delicious.

    Savory French Toast neatly arranged on a wooden board

    A crowd-pleaser for sure!

    Why make this

    This innovative vegan Indian breakfast/snack recipe called Pudla Sandwich is extremely flavorful and filling. The dash of spices gives this savory French Toast an authentic Indian taste.

    • It makes a healthy and nutritious meal
    • Can be served as a snack or for breakfast
    • It's vegan and made with less oil. It's French Toast without eggs!
    • A great way to sneak in all the veggies
    • Its a quick and easy recipe once all the prep work is done
    • 100% customizable depending on what ingredients you have at hand

    Ingredients needed

    all the ingredients needed to make Savory French Toast placed on a table with labels on them

    100% customizable recipe!

    This is one of the most delicious Indian breakfast recipes with bread. Here's what you need to make these egg-free savory French Toasts:

    Flour - Besan or Garbanzo flour is the main ingredient in this recipe. Since we are making French Toast without eggs, this flour is a great substitute.

    Veggies - Onions, bell peppers, corn, carrots, and beetroot are the veggies I have used here. But feel free to add or skip veggies of your choice.

    Bread - While white bread tastes the best, feel free to use any variety of bread available to you.

    Cheese - Use any shredded cheese that melts!

    Spices - turmeric, garam masala, paprika, cumin powder, coriander powder give this Indian breakfast recipe it's authentic flavor.

    Chaat masala, crushed black pepper, and lemon juice can also be added to elevate the taste.

    Flour - Garbanzo flour or besan is what you need to use.

    Ginger, garlic, and cilantro are other basic ingredients that are needed to make this savory French Toast.

    Here's how to make it

    For the sake of convenience, I have split this Indian French Toast recipe into 3 parts.

    To prepare the veggies

    6 image collage showing how to make the stuffing for Savory French Toast

    Great way to sneak in all the veggies!

    There is no need to cook the veggies first. Just add them raw.

    1. To a bowl, add finely chopped onions.
    2. Add finely chopped bell peppers.
    3. Add peeled and finely grated carrots and beets.
    4. Then add corn and half of the chopped cilantro.
    5. Add all the seasonings like garam masala, paprika, crushed black pepper, cumin powder, coriander powder, chaat masala (optional), and salt.
    6. Mix all the ingredients together and keep it aside. You can also mix in a tablespoon of lemon juice.

    To prepare the batter

    4 image showing how to make the batter for Savory French Toast

    Making this is so easy!

    1. Add garbanzo flour or besan to a mixing bowl. Then add crushed pepper, garam masala, paprika, turmeric powder, and cumin powder.
    2. Then gradually add water to it and whisk it till all the flour gets dissolved and there are no lumps.
    3. Add the ginger-garlic paste along with salt and mix it into the batter. The batter should be of coating consistency. That means, it should neither be too thick or too thin.
    4. Set the batter aside for now. In another bowl, mix shredded vegan cheese and the remaining cilantro. Keep it aside for now.

    To assemble the sandwich

    6 image collage showing how to make Savory French Toast

    Innovative breakfast/snack recipe.

    Make the first one for practice. You will get the hang of it as you go.

    Also, if you have prepared the batter and the veggies mixture in advance and have stored it in the fridge, get it out. Let it come to room temperature first.

    1. Drizzle oil on a skillet and keep the flame on low. Dip two bread slices (one after the other) in the batter and place them on the skillet next to each other.
      • No need to keep the bread slices soaked in the batter for long. Just dip, coat, and place on the skillet.
    2. Add the veggie mixture over both slices.
    3. Pour some batter between the two slices so that they get joined together. Also, lightly drizzle some batter over the veggies. Drizzle oil around the bread and let it cook for 2-3 minutes.
    4. Using a wide spatula, carefully flip both the slices together to the other side. Let this side cook for another 2-3 minutes on low flame.
    5. Flip it back to the side that has the veggies. Now sprinkle the cheese + cilantro mixture on top. Use the spatula to separate the bread slices.
    6. Carefully fold one slice over the other. Press gently and cook for 30 seconds or till the cheese melts.
    one hand holding the plate while the other hand is dipping one Savory French Toast into a bowl of chutney

    You will make this on repeat!

    Serving Suggestions

    Make as many as you need. Then cut them in halves or triangles and serve with some green chutney and/or tomato ketchup. It goes perfectly with Chai or Coffee.

    If you love some fries or chips on the side along with your sandwich, here are some healthy alternates for you - Baked Bagel Chips and Bread Crust Fries.

    You can serve this Pudla Sandwich/Savory French Toast for breakfast, as an evening snack, at parties, get-togethers, pack in lunchboxes, and/or for any other occasion.

    Some drinks that can be served along with it are:

    • Watermelon Juice
    • Cucumber Chaas/Buttermilk
    • Strawberry hibiscus Rose Punch
    • Cherry Lemon Iced Tea

    Top tips, recommendations, and suggestions

    When preparing the batter for Pudla/Bread Pakora Sandwich, you can also use yogurt or buttermilk instead of water. It will give it a nice flavor.

    Adding 1-2 tablespoons of rice flour and semolina (rava) to the batter will give the coating a crispy texture when cooked.

    The batter and the veggies mixture can be prepared in advance and stored in the fridge for 4-5 days.

    Use any firm bread for this recipe. It also works great with leftover bread.

    Feel free to add/omit any veggies based on availability. Just remember to finely chop or grate the veggies.

    Flipping these sandwiches requires little practice. It's ok if the mixture spills when flipping. You can put it back over the bread.

    If you are not vegan, you can use regular shredded cheese and cook this in regular butter.

    You can prepare them in advance and warm them up before serving. Feel free to add vegan mayo, mustard along with the cheese to make it more flavorful.

    Leftover Bread Pakora Sandwiches can be stored in ziptop containers and kept in the fridge for 2-3 days.

    If you are in a rush, you can always skip adding the veggies, and just dip the bread in the batter and cook it. Stuff it with cheese and enjoy a Cheesy French Toast!

    BTW, if you eat eggs, you can make this same recipe by simply swapping the batter with eggs. Just dip the bread in eggs and go along with the recipe.

    Which bread to use?

    Avoid using fresh bread. Thick white bread that does not have large pores are ideal for this Pudla Sandwich recipe. You can also use other varieties of bread.

    If needed, you can also lightly toast the bread before dipping them into the batter.

    Want to make it without bread?

    You can skip the bread altogether. Use the batter to prepare thick pancakes and stuff the veggies and cheese in it, cut, and serve.

    Alternatively, you can simply mix the veggies into the batter and use it to make pancakes! You may need to adjust the batter by adding more water or flour.

    Some Indian Bread Breakfast recipes:

    • Potato Chilly Garlic Toast
    • Mashed Potato Cheese Sandwich
    • Yogurt Veggie Sandwich
    • Guacamole Bagel Sliders
    • Bombay Sandwich
    Savory French Toast slices placed on a wooden board with a bowl of ketchup and chutney

    A treat for the eyes and the belly!

    If you’ve tried this Savory French Toast | Pudla Sandwich Recipe or any other recipe on the blog please let me know how it went by commenting below, I love hearing from you!

    You can also FOLLOW ME on FACEBOOK, TWITTER, INSTAGRAM, and PINTEREST to see more delicious vegetarian and vegan recipes and what I’m getting up to.

     

    a hand picking up one Savory French Toast from a stack

    Savory French Toast | Pudla Sandwich

    This delicious savory French Toast (without eggs) or Pudla Sandwich is a perfect vegan Indian recipe that you can make for breakfast/snack. It's nourishing, filling, and packed with flavors. Make this vegan snack recipe in just 30 minutes! 
    5 from 11 votes
    Print Pin Rate
    Course: Breakfast, Snack
    Cuisine: Indian
    Prep Time: 15 minutes
    Cook Time: 15 minutes
    Servings: 6 people
    Calories: 328.14kcal
    Author: Priya Lakshminarayan

    Equipment

    skillet

    Ingredients 

    To prepare the veggies

    • 1 onion finely chopped
    • 1 bell pepper finely chopped
    • 2 carrots grated
    • 1-2 beetroot grated
    • 1/4 cup sweetcorn
    • 2-3 tbsp cilantro chopped
    • 1/2 tbsp garam masala
    • 1 tsp black pepper
    • 1/2 tbsp cumin powder
    • 1/2 tbsp coriander powder
    • 1-2 tbsp paprika
    • 1 tbsp chaat masala optional
    • salt
    • 1 tbsp lemon juice optional

    To prepare the batter

    • 2 cups garbanzo flour or besan
    • 1 tsp black pepper crushed
    • 1/2 tbsp garam masala
    • 1/2 tbsp paprika
    • 1 tsp turmeric powder
    • 1/2 tbsp cumin powder
    • 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
    • salt
    • water

    To assemble the sandwich

    • 1/3 cup vegan cheese shredded
    • 2 tbsp cilantro chopped
    • 8 bread slices
    • oil for cooking

    Instructions

    To prepare the veggies

    • There is no need to cook the veggies first. Just add them raw.
    • To a bowl, add finely chopped onions.
    • Add finely chopped bell peppers.
    • Add peeled and finely grated carrots and beets.
    • Then add corn and half of the chopped cilantro.
    • Add all the seasonings like garam masala, paprika, crushed black pepper, cumin powder, coriander powder, chaat masala (optional), and salt.
    • Mix all the ingredients together and keep it aside. You can also mix in a tablespoon of lemon juice.

    To prepare the batter

    • Add garbanzo flour or besan to a mixing bowl. Then add crushed pepper, garam masala, paprika, turmeric powder, and cumin powder.
    • Then gradually add water to it and whisk it till all the flour gets dissolved and there are no lumps.
    • Add the ginger-garlic paste along with salt and mix it into the batter. The batter should be of coating consistency. That means, it should neither be too thick or too thin.
    • Set the batter aside for now. In another bowl, mix shredded vegan cheese and the remaining cilantro. Keep it aside for now.

    To assemble the sandwich

    • Make the first one for practice. You will get the hang of it as you go.
    • Also, if you have prepared the batter and the veggies mixture in advance and have stored it in the fridge, get it out. Let it come to room temperature first.
    • Drizzle oil on a skillet and keep the flame on low. Dip two bread slices (one after the other) in the batter and place them on the skillet next to each other.
    • No need to keep the bread slices soaked in the batter for long. Just dip, coat, and place on the skillet.
    • Add the veggie mixture over both slices.
    • Pour some batter between the two slices so that they get joined together. Also, lightly drizzle some batter over the veggies. Drizzle oil around the bread and let it cook for 2-3 minutes.
    • Using a wide spatula, carefully flip both the slices together to the other side. Let this side cook for another 2-3 minutes on low flame.
    • Flip it back to the side that has the veggies. Now sprinkle the cheese + cilantro mixture on top. Use the spatula to separate the bread slices.
    • Carefully fold one slice over the other. Press gently and cook for 30 seconds or till the cheese melts.
    • Make as many as you need. Then cut them in halves or triangles and serve with some green chutney and/or tomato ketchup. It goes perfectly with Chai or Coffee.

    Notes

    When preparing the batter for Pudla/Bread Pakora Sandwich, you can also use yogurt or buttermilk instead of water. It will give it a nice flavor.
    Adding 1-2 tablespoons of rice flour and semolina (rava) to the batter will give the coating a crispy texture when cooked.
    The batter and the veggies mixture can be prepared in advance and stored in the fridge for 4-5 days.
    Use any firm bread for this recipe. It also works great with leftover bread.
    Feel free to add/omit any veggies based on availability. Just remember to finely chop or grate the veggies.
    Flipping these sandwiches requires little practice. It's ok if the mixture spills when flipping. You can put it back over the bread.
    If you are not vegan, you can use regular shredded cheese and cook this in regular butter.
    You can prepare them in advance and warm them up before serving. Feel free to add vegan mayo, mustard along with the cheese to make it more flavorful.
    Leftover Bread Pakora Sandwiches can be stored in ziptop containers and kept in the fridge for 2-3 days.
    If you are in a rush, you can always skip adding the veggies, and just dip the bread in the batter and cook it. Stuff it with cheese and enjoy a Cheesy French Toast!
    BTW, if you eat eggs, you can make this same recipe by simply swapping the batter with eggs. Just dip the bread in eggs and go along with the recipe.
    Which bread to use?
    Avoid using fresh bread. Thick white bread that does not have large pores are ideal for this Pudla Sandwich recipe. You can also use other varieties of bread.
    If needed, you can also lightly toast the bread before dipping them into the batter.
    Want to make it without bread?
    You can skip the bread altogether. Use the batter to prepare thick pancakes and stuff the veggies and cheese in it, cut, and serve.
    Alternatively, you can simply mix the veggies into the batter and use it to make pancakes! You may need to adjust the batter by adding more water or flour.

    Nutrition

    Calories: 328.14kcal | Carbohydrates: 53.38g | Protein: 14.8g | Fat: 6.28g | Saturated Fat: 1.16g | Trans Fat: 0.01g | Sodium: 1474.88mg | Potassium: 683.82mg | Fiber: 9.5g | Sugar: 10.68g | Vitamin A: 4953.2IU | Vitamin C: 30.3mg | Calcium: 109.61mg | Iron: 4.99mg
    Tried this Recipe? Share your creation by tagging me on Instagram @Cookilicious using #cookiliciousveg!
    Love watching recipe videos?Subscribe to my Cookilicious YouTube channel now to get your weekly recipe fix - Youtube

    Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. For more information on my Affiliate and Advertising Policy, please click here.

    « Cheese Quesadilla With Tandoori Masala Flavor
    Oats Carrot Dosa - Vegan Crepe Recipe »
    104 shares
    GIFT FOR YOU

    Free Vegan Beginner's Guide

    Tips, recipes & secrets to transform your lifestyle.

    Reader Interactions

    Comments

    1. Pushpa says

      February 14, 2021 at 10:32 am

      5 stars
      Tried the recipe, looks good and tasted yummy!!

      Reply
      • Priya says

        February 14, 2021 at 11:01 am

        Thank you so much. I am so glad to hear that.

        Reply
    2. Gabi says

      February 08, 2021 at 12:28 pm

      5 stars
      Wow! I love innovative vegan sandwich ideas. It's amazing how you play with veggies, spices and colors. Can't wait to try it:)

      Reply
      • Priya says

        February 08, 2021 at 1:32 pm

        Thank you so much Gabi!

        Reply
    3. megan says

      February 08, 2021 at 12:24 pm

      5 stars
      Wow, this looks insane. I will make and come back to comment on how it went! Love this idea.

      Reply
      • Priya says

        February 08, 2021 at 1:32 pm

        🙂 Sure. Thank you so much.

        Reply
    4. Angela says

      February 08, 2021 at 12:19 pm

      5 stars
      These sandwiches has such beautiful color! Thanks for sharing.

      Reply
      • Priya says

        February 08, 2021 at 1:32 pm

        I know right! thank you.

        Reply
    5. Shadi Hasanzadenemati says

      February 08, 2021 at 11:57 am

      5 stars
      Thank you for the recipe, it was absolutely delicious and we all loved it!

      Reply
      • Priya says

        February 08, 2021 at 1:32 pm

        I am so happy to hear that! Thank you.

        Reply
    6. Jacqueline Meldrum says

      February 08, 2021 at 11:55 am

      5 stars
      That filling sounds lush. *grabs coat and heads for door*

      Reply
      • Priya says

        February 08, 2021 at 1:31 pm

        haha! Thank you.

        Reply
    7. Preethicuisine says

      February 05, 2021 at 10:34 pm

      5 stars
      Pudla sandwich looks incredible. Love the riot of colours in the veggies used. This is so quick and nutritious . Even the fussy kids will love it.

      Reply
      • Priya says

        February 08, 2021 at 10:57 am

        Thank you so much

        Reply
    8. Brianna says

      February 05, 2021 at 10:15 pm

      5 stars
      oooh, pudla sounds delicious. I can't wait to try it!

      Reply
      • Priya says

        February 08, 2021 at 10:58 am

        Thank you

        Reply
    9. Andrea Metlika says

      February 05, 2021 at 9:30 pm

      5 stars
      The filling sounds incredible and love that it is put between two pieces of french toast. Just a perfect sandwich.

      Reply
      • Priya says

        February 08, 2021 at 10:58 am

        Yes, it is! Thank you.

        Reply
    10. Vicky says

      February 05, 2021 at 9:13 pm

      5 stars
      This looks very unique and yummy! Some fascinating flavors here!

      Reply
      • Priya says

        February 08, 2021 at 10:58 am

        Glad you like it.

        Reply
    11. Jamie says

      February 05, 2021 at 8:43 pm

      5 stars
      The colors here are just absolutely gorgeous! I love the vibrancy the beets add to this french toast sandwich!

      Reply
      • Priya says

        February 08, 2021 at 10:58 am

        Yes, I love beets. Thank you.

        Reply

    Leave a Reply Cancel reply

    Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

    Rate the Recipe




    This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.

    Primary Sidebar

    ABOUT ME

    Every recipe here tells a story that is simple, easy to follow and has a tasty soul. Come join me in my kitchen and let me take you on a gastronomical journey. Vegetarian & vegan cooking is so much fun! Read more...

    Follow Me

    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
    • Twitter
    • YouTube
    GIFT FOR YOU

    Free Vegan Beginner's Guide

    Tips, recipes & secrets to transform your lifestyle.

    SEARCH A RECIPE OR INGREDIENT

    Featured On

    Get my Cookbook

    We are on YouTube!

    New Year New You

    one big bowl of Vegan Teff Kheer Porridge with a small bowl of the same on the side

    Vegan Teff Kheer Porridge

    Instant Pot Masala Khichdi served in a platter

    Instant Pot Masala Khichdi

    a set of hands tossing Cherub Tomatoes Crouton Salad

    Cherub Tomatoes Crouton Salad

    Instant Pot Ven Pongal served in a leaf bowl with a wooden spoon in it

    Ven Pongal in Instant Pot

    2 Masala Dosa with Sweet Potato placed on a plate

    Masala Dosa with Sweet Potato

    3 bowls of Crunchy Moong Dal

    Moong Dal Namkeen

    TRENDING NOW

    3 Vegan Corn Tostadas served on a wooden platter

    Vegan Corn Tostadas

    a bowl filled with Veg Hakka Noodles and a fork in it

    Veg Hakka Noodles

    image of one forth platter of White Chocolate Thandai Bark served in a platter

    White Chocolate Thandai Bark Recipe

    3 glasses of Thandai Milkshake served next to a bowl of colors and rose buds

    Thandai Milkshake | Dry Fruit Milkshake

    a hand brushing Tomato Cheddar Scones with butter

    Tomato Cheddar Scones

    Dal Tadka served in a brass bucket with a spoon in it

    Dal Tadka in Instant Pot

    Footer

    Stay connected

    • Email
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
    • Twitter
    • YouTube

    Footer

    ^ back to top

    About

    • Privacy Policy
    • About Priya

    Newsletter

    • Sign Up!

    Contact

    • Contact
    • Work With Me

    As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

    Copyright © 2020 Cookilicious

    104 shares
    • 1