Is Indian-style Garlic Toast healthy?

This garlic toast is best enjoyed as an occasional treat. While garlic and herbs offer health benefits, the dish is high in refined carbohydrates and saturated fat from butter. Using whole wheat bread can increase its fiber content.

Can I make the garlic butter spread in advance?

Yes, absolutely! You can prepare the garlic butter spread and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Let it soften at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before using.

What kind of bread is best for garlic toast?

Standard white or brown sandwich bread works perfectly for this tawa version. You can also use thicker slices of bread like sourdough or brioche, but you may need to adjust the toasting time.

Can I make this in an oven or air fryer?

Yes. For an oven, preheat to 180°C (350°F) and bake for 8-10 minutes until golden. For an air fryer, cook at 180°C (350°F) for 4-5 minutes. The tawa method gives a unique, slightly softer texture on one side which many people enjoy.

My garlic is burning on the tawa. What am I doing wrong?

Your heat is likely too high. Minced garlic can burn very quickly. Reduce the heat to medium-low to allow the bread to toast and turn golden brown without burning the garlic and butter.

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indianEasyvegetariannut free

Garlic Toast

RATING

4.3/5(28)

TASTE SCORE

9/10

Crispy, buttery, and packed with flavor, this Indian-style garlic toast is made easily on a tawa. With fresh garlic, coriander, and a hint of chili, it's the perfect snack or side for soups and pastas.

PREP

COOK

10m

SERVES

2 PIECES

257 cal

SERVINGS

INGREDIENTS

For 4 servings

8 slicesSandwich Bread · White or brown bread works well4 tbspSalted Butter · Softened to room temperature5 clovesGarlic · Finely minced or grated2 tbspCoriander Leaves · Finely chopped½ tspRed Chili Flakes · Adjust to your spice preference1 tspDried Oregano1 pinchBlack Pepper Powder · Freshly ground is best1 pinchSalt · Optional, to taste

NUTRITION · PER SERVING

257

CALORIES · 2 PIECES

Protein5g · 8%

Carbs29g · 45%

Fat13g · 46%

Fiber2g

Sodium404mg

Potassium98mg

Phosphorus68mg

How we calculate →

INSTRUCTIONS

4 steps. 10 minutes total.

4 STEPS

1
Step 1
- a.Prepare the Garlic Butter Spread
- b.In a small bowl, take the softened salted butter.
- c.Add the finely minced garlic, chopped coriander leaves, red chili flakes, dried oregano, black pepper powder, and an optional pinch of salt.
- d.Using a fork or spoon, mix everything thoroughly until you have a smooth, well-combined paste. This should take about 2 minutes.
2
Step 2
- a.Apply the Spread to the Bread
- b.Lay the bread slices on a clean, flat surface.
- c.Generously spread the garlic butter mixture evenly on one side of each bread slice, making sure to cover the edges.
3
Step 3
- a.Toast the Bread on a Tawa
- b.Heat a flat pan (tawa) over medium-low heat. It's important not to have the heat too high to prevent the garlic from burning.
- c.Carefully place 2-3 bread slices, buttered-side down, onto the hot tawa.
- d.Toast for 2-3 minutes, pressing down gently with a spatula, until the bottom is golden brown and crispy.
- e.Flip the slices and toast the other (unbuttered) side for about 1 minute until it's lightly toasted and warm.
- f.Repeat the process for the remaining bread slices.
4
Step 4
- a.Serve Immediately
- b.Remove the garlic toast from the tawa.
- c.You can slice them diagonally for a classic presentation.
- d.Serve immediately while they are hot and crispy for the best texture and flavor.

PRO TIPS

What to keep in mind.

5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.

1
For the best flavor, use fresh garlic instead of garlic powder or paste.
2
Ensure your butter is fully softened at room temperature. This makes it much easier to mix and spread without tearing the bread.
3
Keep the flame on medium-low. High heat will burn the butter and garlic quickly, leaving the bread soft.
4
Press the bread gently with a spatula while toasting. This ensures even browning and a crispier texture.
5
The garlic butter spread can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

RECIPE VARIATIONS

Adapt it for your goals.

Cheesy Garlic Toast

After spreading the butter, sprinkle a layer of grated mozzarella or Amul cheese on top. While toasting the buttered side, cover the pan with a lid for a minute to help the cheese melt.

Spicy Green Chili Toast

Add 1 finely chopped green chili to the butter mixture for an extra kick of heat and fresh flavor.

Herb Variation

Substitute coriander with finely chopped parsley or add a teaspoon of kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves) for a different flavor profile.

Vegan Garlic Toast

Replace the salted butter with vegan butter or a good quality olive oil to make this recipe plant-based.

HEALTH BENEFITS

Why this is on our healthy list.

heart

Potential Heart Health Benefits from Garlic

Garlic contains a compound called allicin, which is known for its potential to help manage blood pressure and cholesterol levels, contributing to cardiovascular health when consumed as part of a balanced diet.

leaf

Antioxidants from Herbs

Coriander and oregano are rich in antioxidants, which help combat oxidative stress in the body. They also add immense flavor, reducing the need for excess salt.

bolt

Provides Quick Energy

The carbohydrates from the bread serve as a quick and accessible source of energy, making this a satisfying snack to curb hunger pangs.

QUESTIONS?

Frequently asked questions

One serving of two pieces of garlic toast contains approximately 250-260 calories, primarily from the bread and butter.

PAIRS WELL WITH

Complete meals featuring this recipe

punjabi·70 min·451 cal

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Garlic Toast

For 4 servings

4 steps. 10 minutes total.

Step 1

Step 2

Step 3

Step 4