“Learn how to make authentic Kutchi Dabeli in 5 simple steps with spicy potato filling, chutneys, and soft pav. Perfect Indian street food snack!”
Dabeli, also known as Kutchi Dabeli, is one of India’s most loved street foods. Originating from the Kutch region of Gujarat, this spicy, tangy, and slightly sweet snack has made its way to almost every corner of India—and even abroad! If you’ve ever visited Mumbai or Gujarat, you’ve probably seen street vendors serving hot, buttery Dabelis stuffed with a flavorful potato mixture, chutneys, pomegranate seeds, and crunchy sev.
In this post, we will learn how to make Dabeli at home in just 5 easy steps. This recipe is perfect for anyone who loves Indian snacks or wants to try something new from authentic Indian street food. And don’t worry if you’re in the USA, UK, or anywhere outside India—I’ll share ingredient substitutes and tips to make this recipe globally accessible.
Prep Time: 15 mins | Cook Time: 15 mins | Total Time: 30 mins
Servings: 4 | Course: Snack | Cuisine: Indian (Gujarati/Kutchi)
✅ Ingredients for Dabeli
Before we begin, let’s divide the ingredients into sections: Dabeli Masala, Potato Filling, and Assembling.
For Dabeli Masala
- 2 tbsp coriander seeds
- 1 tbsp cumin seeds
- 4–5 dry red chilies
- ½ tsp cloves
- ½ inch cinnamon stick
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds
For Potato Filling
- 2 medium boiled potatoes (mashed)
- 2 tbsp Dabeli masala (prepared or store-bought)
- 2 tbsp tamarind chutney
- 2 tbsp date chutney
- 1 tbsp oil
- Salt to taste
For Assembling
- 6 pav buns (soft bread rolls)
- ¼ cup roasted peanuts
- ¼ cup pomegranate seeds
- ¼ cup sev (crispy gram flour noodles)
- Green chutney
- Tamarind chutney
- Butter for roasting
✅ 5 Easy Steps to Make Dabeli
Step 1: Prepare Dabeli Masala
- Dry roast coriander seeds, cumin, sesame, red chilies, cinnamon, and cloves on low heat for 2–3 minutes until fragrant.
- Let them cool completely.
- Grind to a fine powder and store in an airtight jar.
✔ Tip: This masala can be stored for weeks, so make extra for later use.
Step 2: Make the Potato Filling
- Heat 1 tbsp oil in a pan.
- Add mashed potatoes, 2 tbsp Dabeli masala, salt, and 2 tbsp tamarind-date chutney.
- Mix well and cook for 2 minutes.
- Add roasted peanuts and pomegranate seeds. Mix and turn off the flame.
Step 3: Prepare the Pav
- Slice pav buns horizontally.
- Apply butter on both sides and toast on a hot tawa until golden and crisp.
Step 4: Assemble the Dabeli
- Spread green chutney on one side and tamarind chutney on the other.
- Place a generous amount of potato filling inside.
- Top with sev and pomegranate seeds.
- Press lightly and your Dabeli is ready!
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Serve hot with extra sev and chutney on the side. Pair it with masala chai or cold drinks for the perfect evening snack.
✅ Pro Tips for the Perfect Dabeli
- Use fresh homemade Dabeli masala for authentic flavor.
- Roast the pav with butter for a street-style taste.
- Garnish with extra sev and pomegranate seeds for crunch.
- For a Jain version, skip onions and garlic.
✅ Ingredient Substitutions (For USA/UK)
- Pav buns: Use soft dinner rolls or burger buns.
- Sev: Available at Indian or Asian stores, or use crispy noodles as a substitute.
- Pomegranate seeds: Optional but adds a sweet crunch.
✅ Variations of Dabeli
- Cheese Dabeli: Add grated cheese inside before closing the pav.
- Dry Fruit Dabeli: Add raisins and cashews for a royal twist.
- Jain Dabeli: No onion, no garlic version.
✅ Serving Suggestions
- Serve with masala peanuts for extra flavor.
- Enjoy with hot chai or cold soda for the complete street food experience.
✅ Nutrition (Approx per serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Carbs: 32g | Protein: 5g | Fat: 11g
FAQs About Dabeli Recipe
What is Dabeli?
Dabeli is a popular Indian street food snack from Kutch, Gujarat, made with spicy potato filling stuffed in pav bread and topped with chutneys and sev.
Is Dabeli sweet or spicy?
It’s a mix of sweet, spicy, and tangy flavors.
Can I make Dabeli without Dabeli masala?
Yes, but the authentic taste comes from Dabeli masala. Use garam masala as an alternative.
What is Dabeli called in English?
Dabeli doesn’t have an English name, but it’s often referred to as a “spiced potato burger.”
Is Dabeli vegan?
Yes, if you skip butter or use plant-based butter.
Is Dabeli healthy?
It’s a snack, so enjoy in moderation. You can make a healthier version by using whole wheat buns.
Can I bake the pav instead of toasting?
Yes, lightly warm in the oven for 2–3 minutes.
Which chutneys are used in Dabeli?
Tamarind-date chutney, green chutney, and garlic chutney.
What toppings go in Dabeli?
Sev, roasted peanuts, and pomegranate seeds.
What is the origin of Dabeli?
It originated in the Kutch region of Gujarat, India.
Can I make Dabeli ahead of time?
Prepare the filling and chutneys in advance but assemble just before serving.
How to store leftover Dabeli filling?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Can I freeze Dabeli masala?
Yes, store in an airtight container for 1–2 months.
Is Dabeli gluten-free?
No, because of the pav, but you can use gluten-free bread.
What is the difference between Dabeli and Vada Pav?
Dabeli has a spiced potato filling with chutneys and pomegranate, while Vada Pav has a fried potato patty.
Is Dabeli spicy for kids?
Reduce chilies in masala and chutneys to make it kid-friendly.
Can I use burger buns for Dabeli?
Yes, soft burger buns work well.
What makes Dabeli unique?
The combination of spicy, sweet, and tangy flavors with crunch from sev and peanuts.
Which oil is best for Dabeli?
Groundnut oil or any neutral cooking oil.
How many calories are in one Dabeli?
Around 250 kcal.
What to serve with Dabeli?
Masala peanuts and tea or cold drink.
What is Dabeli masala made of?
Coriander, cumin, sesame, cinnamon, cloves, and red chilies.
Where can I buy Dabeli masala in the USA?
Indian grocery stores or online (Amazon).
What are the best occasions for Dabeli?
Tea-time snack, parties, or Indian festivals.
Is Dabeli street food or homemade?
It’s a famous street food, but you can easily make it at home.