Classic Bun Maska Recipe: A Sweet and Buttery Delight from Mumbai

Ingredients

4 large buns
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 tablespoons sugar
1/4 cup milk
1/4 cup fruit jam of your choice (optional)

Steps and instructions

Preheat a skillet on medium heat.
While the skillet is heating, slice each bun in half without cutting all the way through, so it opens like a book.
Apply a generous amount of butter on each side of the bun till it is fully covered.
Sprinkle a tablespoon of sugar evenly over the buttered surface of each bun.
Place the buttered buns on the preheated skillet.
Toast the buns on the skillet for 2-3 minutes on each side or until they become golden brown and crispy.
Remove the buns from the skillet and let them cool for a minute.
If desired, spread a spoonful of fruit jam on one side of the bun.
Serve the Bun Maska warm with a cup of tea or coffee.

Tools for making

Skillet - A frying pan or flat-bottomed cooking utensil used for toasting the buns.
Knife - Used for slicing the buns in half and spreading the butter and jam.
Butter knife - Specifically used for spreading the softened butter onto the buns.
Spatula - Used for flipping and removing the toasted buns from the skillet.
Measuring cup - Used to measure the milk and other liquid ingredients.

Recipe variations

Use whole wheat buns instead of regular buns for a healthier option.
Replace regular butter with flavored butter, such as garlic butter or herb butter, to add extra flavor.
Swap out the traditional fruit jam with other spreads like Nutella, peanut butter, or almond butter.
Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or cardamom powder to the sugar for a hint of spiciness.
For a vegan version, use vegan butter and plant-based milk instead of dairy products.
Top the Bun Maska with sliced fresh fruits like bananas, strawberries, or mangoes for a fruity twist.
Add a dollop of whipped cream on top of the bun for a creamy and indulgent treat.
Experiment with different types of buns such as croissants or brioche for a unique flavor and texture.
For a savory twist, spread a layer of cheese on the bun and grill it until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Recipe overview

Get ready to indulge in the delightful taste of Bun Maska, a popular tea-time snack from the vibrant streets of Mumbai. This simple yet scrumptious dish is made by generously buttering a soft bun and sprinkling it with sugar. The bun is then toasted to a perfect golden brown, resulting in a crispy exterior and a soft, buttery interior. Optionally, you can add a layer of your favorite fruit jam for an extra burst of flavor. Serving Bun Maska with a hot cup of tea or coffee enhances the experience, making it a perfect companion for your morning breakfast or evening snack. The recipe is straightforward and the result is absolutely mouthwatering. So, let's dive into the world of Mumbai street food with this delicious Bun Maska recipe.

Common questions

Can I use any type of buns for this recipe?
Yes, you can use any type of large buns for this recipe. However, it is recommended to use soft and slightly sweet buns like pav or dinner rolls.
Do I have to use unsalted butter?
Unsalted butter is preferred for this recipe as it allows you to control the amount of saltiness in the dish. However, if you only have salted butter on hand, you can use it but adjust the amount of additional salt in the recipe accordingly.
Can I substitute milk with any other dairy-free alternatives?
Yes, you can substitute milk with any dairy-free alternatives like almond milk, soy milk, or oat milk. Just make sure to choose an unsweetened and unflavored option.
Can I skip the fruit jam?
Absolutely! The fruit jam is optional and can be skipped if you prefer a plain bun. However, adding fruit jam adds a delightful sweetness and extra flavor to the Bun Maska.

Serving dishes and utensils

Skillet - A flat-bottomed pan with low sides, used for toasting the buns.
Knife - Used for slicing the buns in half and spreading butter.
Spatula - Helps in flipping and removing the toasted buns from the skillet.
Spoons - Used for spreading butter and jam on the buns.

Origin stories

Bun Maska is a beloved street food of Mumbai, India. This simple yet irresistible treat, flaunting the goodness of melted butter and sugar sandwiched in a toasty bun, is best savored with a piping hot cup of Chai (Indian tea). The name 'Bun Maska' literally translates to 'Bun with Butter'. Dating back to the colonial times, the Parsi community in India introduced this delightful dish to Mumbai's culinary scene. The custom of pairing it with tea became popular in Irani cafes - warm, welcoming establishments run by the Parsi community. These cafes, known for their old-world charm, became the heart of Mumbai's social life, where people from all walks of life came together over Bun Maska and Chai. Today, this humble combination still holds a special place in the hearts of Mumbaikars and continues to be a symbol of Mumbai's diverse and ever-evolving food culture.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.