Bread pudding is traditionally a rich, custardy dessert made from leftover bread, eggs, milk, and sugar. However, in India, where vegetarian and savory flavors reign supreme, bread pudding takes on a delightful twist with the addition of vibrant vegetables and aromatic spices.
This bread pudding veg recipe from India transforms a simple comfort food into a wholesome, savory dish that can be enjoyed as a snack, breakfast, or even a light dinner.
Using everyday ingredients like bread, mixed vegetables, and Indian spices, this recipe is both budget-friendly and bursting with flavor. It’s a perfect way to reduce food waste by utilizing leftover bread and turn it into a nutritious meal.
Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is easy to follow and guarantees a satisfying experience. Dive into this flavorful journey and discover how versatile bread pudding can be—Indian style!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Indian-style vegetable bread pudding offers a unique blend of textures and flavors. The bread soaks up the aromatic spiced milk, creating a soft, custard-like base, while the sautéed vegetables add a delightful crunch and freshness.
Vegetarian and wholesome, it’s packed with fiber and nutrients from the mixed vegetables, making it a healthier alternative to traditional bread pudding desserts. The spices like cumin, turmeric, and garam masala infuse warmth and depth, bringing an authentic Indian flavor profile to the dish.
Additionally, this recipe is incredibly flexible—you can customize it with your favorite vegetables or even add paneer for extra protein. It’s a great way to impress family and friends with something both comforting and exotic!
Ingredients
- 6-8 slices white bread (preferably slightly stale)
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, bell peppers, beans), finely chopped
- 1 cup milk
- 2 eggs
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp cumin seeds
- 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
- 1 tsp garam masala
- 1/2 tsp red chili powder (adjust to taste)
- 2 tbsp oil or ghee
- Salt to taste
- Fresh coriander for garnish
- Optional: 1/2 cup grated paneer or cheese
Equipment
- Baking dish (8×8 inch or similar)
- Mixing bowls
- Frying pan or skillet
- Whisk or fork
- Knife and chopping board
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Oven or stovetop with covered pan
Instructions
- Prepare the bread: Cut the bread slices into small cubes and set aside.
- Sauté the vegetables: Heat oil or ghee in a frying pan over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them splutter.
- Add chopped onions and sauté until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
- Add the mixed vegetables, turmeric, red chili powder, garam masala, and salt. Cook for 5-7 minutes until vegetables are tender but still slightly firm.
- Prepare the custard mixture: In a mixing bowl, whisk eggs and milk together until fully combined.
- Add the sautéed vegetable mixture to the bowl and stir to combine evenly.
- Assemble the pudding: Grease the baking dish with a little oil or butter. Spread half of the bread cubes evenly in the dish.
- Pour half of the vegetable and egg mixture over the bread, pressing gently so the bread soaks up the liquid.
- Repeat with the remaining bread and vegetable mixture. If using, sprinkle grated paneer or cheese on top.
- Let the mixture rest for 10-15 minutes to allow the bread to absorb the custard fully.
- Bake the pudding: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the pudding is set.
- Alternatively, you can cook the pudding on the stovetop by covering the dish and cooking on low heat for 25-30 minutes.
- Garnish and serve: Remove from oven and let it cool slightly. Garnish with chopped fresh coriander.
- Cut into squares and serve warm with chutney or yogurt.
Tips & Variations
Always use slightly stale bread as it absorbs the custard better without turning mushy.
You can experiment with different vegetables according to the season or availability—spinach, corn, and mushrooms work wonderfully.
For a richer flavor, add a handful of roasted cashews or raisins to the mix.
If you prefer a vegan version, substitute eggs with chickpea flour batter or silken tofu blended with a pinch of kala namak (black salt) for an eggy flavor.
Cheese lovers can add mozzarella or cheddar for a melty texture, transforming this into a delicious fusion dish.
For a spicier kick, add finely chopped green chilies along with the other spices.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Per Serving (1/6th of recipe) |
---|---|
Calories | 220 kcal |
Protein | 8 g |
Carbohydrates | 25 g |
Fat | 9 g |
Fiber | 3 g |
Calcium | 150 mg |
Iron | 2 mg |
Serving Suggestions
This savory bread pudding pairs beautifully with a side of cooling cucumber raita or tangy mint chutney to balance the spices.
For a more filling meal, serve alongside a simple dal or sambar. It also works great as a standalone snack with a hot cup of masala chai.
Leftovers can be enjoyed cold or reheated in a microwave or oven, making it perfect for meal prep or packed lunches.
For dessert lovers, you might enjoy trying the Chocolate Heaven Cake Recipe after this savory delight, or cool down with a Cinnamon Pecan Ice Cream Recipe.
Conclusion
This Indian vegetable bread pudding recipe is a wonderful example of how traditional dishes can be reinvented with creative twists. It’s a comforting, nutritious, and flavorful way to use leftover bread and fresh vegetables while enjoying the vibrant spices of Indian cuisine.
Its simplicity and adaptability make it a great dish to add to your weekly meal rotation, especially if you love dishes that combine texture and taste in unique ways. Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining guests, this bread pudding is sure to impress with its subtle spice and satisfying heartiness.
Don’t forget to explore other exciting recipes like the Classico Sun Dried Tomato Alfredo Sauce Recipe to complement your culinary adventures. Happy cooking!
📖 Recipe Card: Indian Style Vegetable Bread Pudding
Description: A savory twist on traditional bread pudding with Indian spices and mixed vegetables. This comforting dish is perfect as a snack or light meal.
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT40M
Total Time: PT55M
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 6 slices white bread, crusts removed and cubed
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, beans), finely chopped
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 green chili, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 eggs
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
- 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh coriander leaves
- 1 tablespoon oil
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Heat oil in a pan, add cumin seeds and let them splutter.
- Add onions and green chili, sauté until translucent.
- Add mixed vegetables, turmeric, garam masala, and salt; cook for 5 minutes.
- In a bowl, whisk eggs and milk together.
- Add bread cubes, cooked vegetables, and coriander to the egg mixture; mix well.
- Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes until set and golden on top.
- Allow to cool slightly before serving.
Nutrition: Calories: 280 kcal | Protein: 10 g | Fat: 12 g | Carbs: 30 g
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