Misal Pav is one of the most popular and flavourful dishes from Maharashtra. It is a spicy curry made with sprouted lentils called “matki,” topped with crunchy farsan (fried snack mixture), onions, and fresh coriander. The dish is traditionally served with soft pav bread, making it a filling and satisfying meal.
This dish is commonly enjoyed as breakfast or lunch in many parts of Maharashtra, especially in cities like Pune, Kolhapur, and Mumbai. Each region has its own variation of Misal Pav, with Kolhapur Misal being the spiciest version. The dish is known for its bold spices and layered textures, combining spicy curry, crunchy toppings, and soft bread.
Misal Pav is not only delicious but also nutritious because it contains sprouted lentils rich in protein and fibre. The combination of spices, herbs, and toppings makes it a unique dish loved by street food enthusiasts across India.
Ingredients
For the Misal Curry
- 1 cup sprouted matki (moth beans)
- 1 onion (finely chopped)
- 2 tomatoes (chopped)
- 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- Salt to taste
- 2 tablespoons oil
For Serving
- 4 pav bread
- 1 cup farsan mixture
- 1 onion (finely chopped)
- Fresh coriander leaves
- Lemon wedges
How to Make Misal Pav
1. Cook the Sprouted Lentils
Pressure cook the sprouted matki with a little salt and water until soft.
2. Prepare the Masala
Heat oil in a pan and add cumin seeds. Add chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
3. Add Tomatoes and Spices
Add chopped tomatoes, turmeric powder, chili powder, and garam masala. Cook until the mixture becomes thick.
4. Add the Lentils
Add the cooked matki along with some cooking water and mix well.
5. Simmer the Curry
Let the curry simmer for about 10 minutes so the flavors blend well.
6. Prepare the Serving Bowl
Pour the hot missal curry into a bowl and top it with farsan, chopped onions, and coriander leaves.
7. Serve
Serve hot with pav bread and lemon wedges on the side.
