Bread Kizhi Recipe | Kizhi Parotta without Parotta | Mushroom and Bread Masala
Bread Kizhi is my own take on the classic Kizhi Parotta. Instead of parotta, this recipe uses bread cubes soaked in a rich, spicy mushroom masala and wrapped in banana leaves. The banana leaf adds a distinct flavor to the dish, making it a wholesome and mass vera level dish. A must try Makkale!
This recipe is perfect for anyone looking to explore unique South Indian-inspired dishes. Whether it’s for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, this Bread Kizhi promises a yummy taste in every bite!

Let’s Talk About Ingredients
- Bread: Acts as the base for the dish, soaking up the flavorful masala. Use plain white or brown bread. Avoid flavored varieties like garlic bread.
- Mushrooms: A nutritious and low-calorie ingredient that absorbs the masala beautifully. You can substitute it with paneer or mixed vegetables.
- Spices: Cinnamon, clove, cumin, fennel, coriander, and peppercorns bring warmth and depth to the masala. Adjust the spice level to your taste.
- Banana Leaf: Adds a natural, earthy aroma and serves as a beautiful wrapper for cooking the bread masala.
Detailed Recipe
Video Recipe
Instructions with photo guide
- Prepare the Masala Paste
- Heat 1 tsp oil in a pan. Add:
- A small piece of cinnamon
- 1 clove
- 1 tsp cumin seeds
- 1 tsp fennel seeds
- 1 tsp coriander seeds
- 1 tsp peppercorns
- Sauté for a few seconds until aromatic.
- Heat 1 tsp oil in a pan. Add:


- Add:
- 2 garlic cloves (chopped)
- 2 tbsp ginger (chopped)
- 2 green chillies (chopped)
- Sauté again


- and add 2 chopped tomatoes. Fry for a minute.


- Add 2 tbsp fried gram, mix well, and let the mixture cool. Grind it to a fine paste.




- Cook the Mushrooms
- Heat 1 tbsp oil in a pan. Add 1 large onion (finely chopped) and fry until pink.


- Add 250 gms sliced mushrooms and 1/2 tsp salt. Cook until the mushrooms shrink.




- Add the Masala and Spices
- Add the prepared masala paste to the pan and sauté well.


- Add:
- 1/8 tsp turmeric powder
- 1/8 tsp chilli powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- Cook until the raw smell leaves.


- Simmer the Curry
- Add 2 cups water, a few cashews, and a sprig of curry leaves.


Mix well, cover, and cook on high heat for 5 minutes.



Add the Bread Cubes
- Add 10 bread slices (chopped into cubes) to the curry.
- Mix gently to avoid mashing. The bread absorbs the flavorful masala.
- Add chopped coriander leaves and mix once.




- Prepare the Banana Leaf
- Heat the banana leaf over a flame to wilt it slightly, making it soft and pliable.
- Assemble the Kizhi
- Place half the bread masala on the banana leaf.
- Top with chopped onions and coriander leaves.


- Fold the banana leaf into a rectangle and secure it with a rubber band or thread.


Cook the Kizhi
- Heat a pan with a little oil. Place the banana leaf parcel in the pan.
- Cover and cook on low heat for 5 minutes.
Serve Hot
- Open the parcel and check if the bottom is cooked well.
- Serve hot, topped with additional chopped onions if desired.


Expert Tips
- Use fresh banana leaves and heat it up a little in direct flame to avoid tearing. If unavailable, use parchment paper.
- Ensure the bread cubes are firm to prevent mashing while mixing and remember NO OVER MIXING.
- Adjust the spice level by varying the number of green chillies and peppercorns.
FAQs
Can I replace the bread?
Yes, you can use roti or leftover chapati cut into pieces.
What can I replace mushrooms with?
Paneer, tofu, or vegetables like carrots, beans, and peas work well.
Is banana leaf necessary?
If unavailable, use parchment paper or aluminum foil. However, banana leaves add a distinct traditional flavor.
Can I prepare this in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the masala and assemble the parcels ahead of time. Cook them just before serving.

Recipe card
Bread Kizhi Recipe
Ingredients
- Small piece cinnamon
- 1 clove
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp fennel seeds
- 1 tsp coriander seeds
- 1 tsp peppercorns
- Aromatics:
- 2 garlic cloves chopped,
- 2 tbsp ginger chopped,
- 2 green chillies chopped
- 2 tomatoes chopped,
- 2 tbsp fried gram
- 1 tbsp oil
- 1 large onion finely chopped,
- 250 gms mushrooms sliced,
- 10 bread slices cubed
- 1/8 tsp turmeric powder
- 1/8 tsp chilli powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- few cashews
- sprig of curry leaves
- Fresh banana leaf
Instructions
- Prepare a masala paste with fried spices, garlic, ginger, chillies, tomatoes, and fried gram.
- Cook onions and mushrooms, add masala paste, spices, and water. Simmer.
- Add bread cubes, mix gently, and garnish with coriander leaves.
- Assemble and cook parcels in banana leaves for 5 minutes.
- Serve hot.