Vegan Indian Street Food Pudla Sandwich Recipe

The Pudla Sandwich is a crispy and savory Indian street food that combines chickpea flour pancakes (pudlas) with a spiced vegetable filling, all grilled between slices of hearty whole wheat bread. Packed with bold flavors, nutritious ingredients, and a crunchy texture, this vegan sandwich is perfect for a wholesome breakfast, snack, or light meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Vegan & Gluten-Free Option – Made with chickpea flour, this recipe is naturally plant-based and can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free bread.
• Packed with Flavor – Features aromatic spices like cumin, chaat masala, and black salt for an authentic Indian taste.
• Crispy & Satisfying – The combination of grilled bread, crispy pudla, and fresh vegetable filling makes for a delicious texture contrast.
• Healthy & Nutritious – High in protein from chickpea flour and fiber-rich from fresh veggies and whole wheat bread.
• Quick & Easy – Requires simple ingredients and comes together in under 30 minutes.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Pudla (Chickpea Pancake Batter):

• 1 cup chickpea flour (besan)
• ½ teaspoon turmeric powder
• ½ teaspoon red chili powder
• ½ teaspoon cumin seeds
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup water (adjust as needed)
• 1 tablespoon chopped cilantro

For the Filling:

• ½ cup chopped bell peppers (red & green)
• ¼ cup shredded cabbage (red or green)
• ¼ cup chopped onions
• ½ avocado (mashed, optional)
• ¼ teaspoon chaat masala
• ¼ teaspoon black salt
• ¼ teaspoon cumin powder

For Assembling:

• 4 slices of whole wheat or multigrain bread
• 1 tablespoon vegan butter or oil

Directions

1. Prepare the Batter – In a mixing bowl, combine chickpea flour, turmeric, red chili powder, cumin seeds, and salt. Gradually add water and whisk until you get a smooth, lump-free batter. Stir in chopped cilantro.
2. Cook the Pudla – Heat a non-stick pan and lightly grease it with oil. Pour a thin layer of the batter and spread evenly. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy. Repeat to make more pudlas.
3. Prepare the Filling – In a bowl, mix chopped bell peppers, shredded cabbage, onions, mashed avocado (if using), chaat masala, black salt, and cumin powder. Toss well to combine.
4. Assemble the Sandwich – Take a slice of bread and spread the vegetable filling evenly. Place a cooked pudla on top and cover with another slice of bread.
5. Grill or Toast – Heat a pan, spread vegan butter or oil, and grill the sandwich until golden brown and crispy on both sides.
6. Serve & Enjoy – Slice in half and serve hot with green chutney, tamarind chutney, or ketchup.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 2-3 sandwiches
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Gluten-Free Option – Use gluten-free bread for a completely gluten-free version.
• Spicy Kick – Add finely chopped green chilies or extra red chili powder for more heat.
• Cheesy Version – Add vegan cheese slices or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
• Protein Boost – Add crumbled tofu or cooked chickpeas to the filling for extra protein.
• Different Bread Options – Swap whole wheat bread with sourdough, multigrain, or sandwich rolls.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftover pudlas and filling separately in airtight containers for up to 2 days.
• Reheating: Reheat sandwiches in a pan for 2-3 minutes per side or in a toaster until crispy.
• Freezing: Pudlas can be frozen for up to a month. Thaw and reheat before assembling the sandwich.

FAQs

Can I make this sandwich ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the pudlas and filling in advance, but assemble and grill the sandwich just before serving for the best texture.

What can I use instead of chickpea flour?

You can use lentil flour or a mix of whole wheat flour and cornmeal, but chickpea flour gives the best authentic taste.

Is this sandwich spicy?

It has mild spice from red chili powder and chaat masala, but you can adjust it to your taste.

Can I bake this sandwich instead of grilling?

Yes, bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway for even crispiness.

How can I make this sandwich oil-free?

Cook the pudlas on a non-stick pan without oil and grill the sandwich using a panini press or air fryer.

What dips pair well with this sandwich?

It goes great with mint chutney, tamarind chutney, coconut chutney, or even a classic tomato ketchup.

Can I add more veggies to the filling?

Absolutely! Grated carrots, spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini would make great additions.

What’s the best bread for this sandwich?

Whole wheat, sourdough, or multigrain bread works best for a sturdy texture and nutty flavor.

Can I use store-bought pudlas?

Fresh homemade pudlas have the best flavor, but if you find pre-made ones, they can work in a pinch.

Is this a breakfast or snack recipe?

It’s versatile! It makes a great high-protein breakfast, a satisfying lunch, or a delicious evening snack.

Conclusion

The Pudla Sandwich is a crispy, flavorful, and nutritious Indian street food-inspired dish that’s both easy to make and incredibly satisfying. With the goodness of chickpea flour pancakes, spiced vegetable filling, and toasted bread, this vegan sandwich is a perfect combination of taste and texture. Serve it hot with chutney and enjoy a delicious and wholesome meal!