Description
Masala beans on toast elevate breakfast with bold Indian-inspired flavors and creamy cheese. Rich, spicy legumes nestled on crisp bread create a quick morning delight you’ll crave again and again.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 1 can (14 ounces / 400 grams) baked beans (or canned white beans + ½ cup tomato sauce)
- 4 slices of bread (sourdough, white, or whole grain)
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (or mozzarella)
Spices and Seasonings:
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- ½ teaspoon cumin powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (or chili powder for spice)
- ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon chili flakes (optional, for heat)
Vegetables and Aromatics:
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon grated ginger
- 1 tablespoon chopped cilantro (for garnish)
Cooking Fats:
- 1 tablespoon butter or oil
- 1 tablespoon butter (for toasting the bread)
Instructions
- Prepare the aromatic masala base by gently sautéing finely chopped onions, minced garlic, and freshly grated ginger in a skillet with a touch of butter or oil until they become translucent and fragrant.
- Enhance the flavor profile by introducing a harmonious blend of garam masala, ground cumin, and smoky paprika, allowing the spices to bloom and release their intense aromatics for approximately one minute.
- Incorporate the baked beans into the spice-infused mixture, stirring thoroughly to ensure even distribution of the seasonings, and let the mixture simmer gently to develop a rich, thick consistency.
- While the beans are simmering, transform bread slices into crisp, golden toast using either a traditional toaster or a skillet, creating a perfect crunchy foundation for the masala beans.
- Layer the thickened, spice-laden beans generously over the toasted bread, ensuring complete coverage and maximum flavor absorption.
- For those desiring an indulgent twist, crown the beans with a lavish sprinkle of shredded cheese, then briefly expose to high heat under a broiler or in a preheated oven until the cheese melts into a tantalizing, bubbly blanket.
- Elevate the dish’s visual appeal and fresh flavor by scattering chopped cilantro and a delicate dusting of chili flakes across the surface, then serve immediately while piping hot.
Notes
- Swap butter for olive oil to create a lighter, heart-healthier version of this comforting dish.
- Experiment with different cheese varieties like sharp cheddar, pepper jack, or vegan cheese to match dietary preferences and add exciting flavor profiles.
- Use gluten-free bread for a celiac-friendly option that doesn’t compromise on taste or texture.
- Make the beans extra spicy by adding fresh chopped green chilies or a dash of hot sauce for heat lovers who want an intense flavor kick.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Breakfast, Lunch, Snacks
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Indian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2
- Calories: 500
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 60 g
- Fiber: 12 g
- Protein: 18 g
- Cholesterol: 40 mg