Cheese Chili Toast

The inspiration behind this hails straight from the streets of Mumbai. Roadside sandwich stalls sell this as a closed sandwich with lots of cheese and some also add mayo for a rich, creamy mouthfeel. Different versions of this Mumbai street classic can be found in various parts of the city. This is my little take on one of my teenage favorites. I like to build it as an open-faced sandwich, with a modest amount of cheese (mozzarella). The bread is courtesy of Chef Troy (my husband)- whole-wheat loaf with cumin, caraway, and sesame (this family is addicted to spices). I love adding jalapenos, red onion and oregano to elevate the flavour and texture. And lastly, toasted to make it a perfect little tea-time snack.

Ingredients:

2 slices of bread (sourdough bread is ideal, however, any fresh baked bread should give excellent end results)

1/2 green pepper, sliced into rings

1/2 jalapeno, sliced into rings

1/4 red onion, sliced

A pinch or dry oregano

1/2 cup mozzarella, shredded

Butter

Method:

1. Apply butter on the bread slices. Arrange onions, jalapenos and peppers on it. You may also dice peppers and onions. However, rings and slices work the best for a tea sandwich like this one.

2. Top with shredded mozzarella and sprinkle dry oregano and salt. You may also use Italian seasoning, Herbes de Provence or any such dry spice rub. (Garlic salt also gives a good flavour)