Misal Pav is a dish that perfectly captures the heart and soul of Maharashtrian cuisine. Known for its fiery flavors and irresistible textures, it’s a street food staple and a favorite breakfast or snack item. In Pune, Misal Pav is more than just a dish, it’s a tradition.
What is Misal Pav?
At its core, Misal Pav is a combination of Misal (a spicy curry made from sprouted beans) and Pav (soft bread rolls). The dish is garnished with crunchy farsan (fried savory mix), fresh onions, and cilantro, served with a wedge of lemon. This hearty dish balances spice, crunch, and zest, making it a sensory delight.
The Recipe: How to Make Misal Pav at Home
Creating authentic Misal Pav at home is simpler than you think! Here’s a basic recipe you can try:
Ingredients
For the Misal:
- 1 cup sprouted moth beans (matki), steamed
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 tomatoes, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon ginger-garlic paste
- 2 tablespoons oil
- 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
- Curry leaves (8-10)
- 2 teaspoons red chili powder
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 2 teaspoons coriander powder
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- Salt to taste
- 3 cups water
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
For the Tarri (spiced oil):
- 2 tablespoons oil
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder
To Serve:
- Pav (bread rolls)
- Farsan or sev
- Finely chopped onions
- Lemon wedges
Instructions
- Prepare the Base:
- Heat oil in a pan. Add mustard seeds and let them splutter.
- Add curry leaves, onions, and ginger-garlic paste. Sauté until the onions turn golden.
- Cook the Gravy:
- Add chopped tomatoes and cook until soft.
- Stir in chili powder, turmeric powder, coriander powder, and garam masala. Cook until the spices release their aroma.
- Add Sprouted Beans:
- Add the steamed sprouted beans and mix well.
- Pour in water, adjust salt, and let it simmer for 10–15 minutes.
- Make the Tarri:
- Heat oil in a separate pan. Add chili powder and stir for a few seconds. Drizzle this over the prepared Misal to give it its signature spiciness and vibrant color.
- Assemble the Misal Pav:
- In a bowl, add a layer of Misal. Top with farsan, chopped onions, and fresh cilantro.
- Squeeze some lemon juice over the top and serve hot with toasted pav.
Why Pune’s Misal Pav is Unique
Pune’s version of Misal Pav is known for its perfect balance of heat and flavor. Some iconic eateries, like Bedekar and Katakirrr, offer their unique twists—ranging from jaggery-sweetened variations to tear-inducing spicy ones. The soft pav served alongside absorbs the flavorful rassa, creating a mouthwatering bite every time.
A Dish Loved by All
Misal Pav is more than food—it’s an experience. Whether you enjoy it spicy, tangy, or with a mild sweetness, there’s a version for everyone. If you’re in Pune, you must try it at the local joints, but until then, this homemade recipe will bring the authentic taste of Pune’s Misal Pav to your table.
So, why wait? Get cooking, and savor the magic of Misal Pav!