We’ve always been fans of Bun Maska, that quintessential Indian street food delight hailing from Mumbai’s bustling Irani cafes. It’s a simple yet comforting combo of soft buns slathered in butter and paired with a hot cup of tea, perfect for a quick breakfast or snack that transports you to the heart of the city.
In our easy recipe, we’ll guide you through making this classic at home so you can enjoy its warm, buttery goodness anytime. Whether you’re a fan of traditional flavors or new to this gem, it’s a fun way to add some global flair to your table.
Ingredients
For our Bun Maska recipe, we select fresh, high-quality ingredients that capture the essence of this Mumbai street food classic. Below, we list them in the order they are typically used, with prep specifics for accuracy and ease.
- Buns: 4 soft bread buns (preferably freshly baked or store-bought; slice them horizontally for even spreading)
- Butter: 100g unsalted butter (softened at room temperature for smooth application and to enhance the rich, creamy flavor)
- Maska Spread: 2 tablespoons of additional butter or a flavored variant like garlic butter (melted if preferred for a quicker spread, though softened works best for traditional texture)
- Optional Accompaniments: 2 teaspoons of jam or marmalade (such as strawberry or mixed fruit, warmed slightly for better integration); and 1 cup of strong brewed tea (like masala chai, prepared separately to pair with the buns for an authentic experience)
Instructions
Now that we have gathered our fresh ingredients for Bun Maska, let’s guide you through the simple steps to create this comforting Indian street food favorite right in your kitchen. We’ll ensure each step is straightforward and brings out the irresistible flavors of buttery buns paired with tea.
Prep
Before we begin, prepare your ingredients to make the process smooth. Start by slicing the soft bread buns horizontally into halves to create even surfaces for buttering—this allows the butter to melt evenly and enhances the texture. If using optional spreads like jam or marmalade, measure out 1 tablespoon per bun and set it aside. Next, soften the unsalted butter by leaving it at room temperature for about 10 minutes, ensuring it’s spreadable for that creamy, luxurious feel. Finally, brew a pot of strong tea using 2 cups of water and 2 teaspoons of tea leaves, steeping for 3-5 minutes to achieve a robust flavor that complements the richness of the buns.
Cook
With everything prepped, it’s time to add some warmth to our Bun Maska. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat for about 2 minutes until it’s hot enough to sizzle a drop of water. Place the bun halves cut-side down on the skillet and toast them for 1-2 minutes per side, flipping once, until they turn a golden brown with a slight crunch that releases an inviting aroma of warm bread. If you prefer a more decadent version, add a pat of butter to the skillet first and let it melt, coating the buns in its rich, glossy sheen as they cook.
Assemble
Now we bring it all together to capture the essence of Bun Maska. Generously spread softened butter onto the toasted bun halves, using about 1-2 tablespoons per bun, and watch it melt into the warm bread for a silky, indulgent layer. If desired, add a thin spread of jam or marmalade on top for a sweet-tangy contrast that elevates the flavors. Stack the halves to form complete buns, pressing gently to let the butter seep in and create that signature soft-yet-crisp bite we love in this classic dish.
Serve
To enjoy Bun Maska at its best, plate the assembled buns alongside the freshly brewed tea while they’re still warm, allowing the steam from the tea to mingle with the buttery scent for a comforting experience. Serve immediately for 2-4 people as a quick breakfast or snack, encouraging everyone to savor the contrast of the soft, buttery interior against the toasted exterior, paired with the bold, invigorating tea that makes this Mumbai favorite so memorable.
Conclusion
We’ve shared this Bun Maska recipe to bring Mumbai’s charm right to your kitchen
It’s a simple joy that adds comfort to any day
Let’s make it a go-to treat and explore more flavors together
You’ll find it’s even more delightful with your personal twist
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Bun Maska?
Bun Maska is a classic Indian street food from Mumbai’s Irani cafes, featuring soft buttered buns paired with tea. It’s a comforting snack or breakfast option, known for its simple yet flavorful appeal, using fresh ingredients like bread buns and butter.
What ingredients are needed for Bun Maska?
You’ll need soft bread buns, unsalted butter, and optional additions like jam or marmalade. Don’t forget strong brewed tea for an authentic touch. Focus on high-quality, fresh items to capture the traditional taste.
How do you prepare Bun Maska at home?
Start by slicing the buns and softening the butter. Toast the buns in a skillet until golden brown, then spread butter generously and add jam if desired. Serve warm with freshly brewed tea. This easy recipe takes minutes and serves 2-4 people.
How many people does the Bun Maska recipe serve?
This recipe is designed for 2-4 people, making it ideal for a quick family breakfast or snack. Adjust quantities based on your group size for a personalized touch.
Can I customize Bun Maska?
Yes, you can add variations like different jams, marmalade, or even cheese for a twist. Keep the base simple with buttered buns and tea, but experiment to suit your taste while maintaining the dish’s comforting essence.
Is Bun Maska suitable for breakfast?
Absolutely, Bun Maska is perfect for breakfast or a snack due to its warm, satisfying nature. It’s easy to prepare and pairs well with tea, offering a quick energy boost to start your day.