Desi Garlic Bread With Cheese Recipe

Prepare bread

Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Place the 8-inch bread/flatbread on a baking tray lined with parchment or a lightly oiled tray. If the bread is very thick, split it horizontally (like a pizza) or score the top lightly to allow butter to soak in.

Cook aromatics

In a small skillet over medium-low heat, add 1 tsp vegetable oil. Add the finely chopped onion and a pinch of salt, and sweat for 3–4 minutes until translucent and soft (do not brown). Add minced garlic and chopped jalapeño and cook 1–1.5 minutes more until fragrant.

Mix flavored butter

Remove the skillet from heat and allow the mixture to cool 1–2 minutes. In a bowl, combine the softened butter (3 tbs) with the cooked onion-garlic-jalapeño mixture. Add chopped cilantro, red chili powder, chaat masala, black pepper, lemon juice, and remaining 1/2 tsp salt. Stir thoroughly until evenly mixed. Taste and adjust salt or chili. The consistency should be spreadable; if too stiff, warm slightly or mash to soften.

Spread butter

Using a spoon or pastry brush, spread the garlic-onion-jalapeño butter evenly over the top surface of the bread, making sure to get into any scored cuts so flavor penetrates. Reserve about 1 tsp of the melted butter for brushing later.

Add cheese

Evenly distribute the grated mozzarella and cheddar over the buttered bread in a single layer. Press lightly so cheese contacts the buttered surface. If you like extra jalapeño heat, scatter a few thin slices on top.

Optional extras

Sprinkle red chili flakes lightly for extra heat and a pinch more chaat masala for tang, if desired.

Bake

Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake for 8–10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbling and edges of the bread are golden. For a browned top, switch to broil/grill for 1–2 minutes — watch carefully to avoid burning.

Brush and garnish

Remove from oven and immediately brush the crust edges lightly with the reserved melted butter. Sprinkle the chopped spring onion or fresh cilantro on top. Let rest 1–2 minutes so cheese sets slightly.

Slice & serve

Cut into 4 or 6 slices (depending on preferred portion size). Serve hot as an appetizer or side under the Desi Pizzas (VEG) section — pairs well with mint chutney or ketchup.