Misal Pav Recipe: Mumbai's Iconic Spicy Street Food

What is Misal Pav?

Misal Pav is Maharashtra's fiery signature dish featuring sprouted moth beans (usal misal) in a spicy gravy, topped with farsan and served with soft bread rolls. This authentic Misal Pav recipe captures the perfect balance of heat, tang, and texture that makes it Mumbai's favorite breakfast.

The dish gets its distinctive flavor from Misal Pav masala - a special blend of pure Indian spices including coriander, cumin, and dried coconut. Whether you prefer Misal rassa (extra gravy) or drier versions, this guide covers all techniques.

Essential Ingredients for Misal Pav

Here’s a list to make delicious masoor dal tadka:

• 1 cup sprouted matki (moth beans)
• 2 tbsp Misal masala powder
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 tomatoes, pureed
• 1/4 cup grated coconut
• 1 tbsp goda masala
• 1 tsp mustard seeds
• 8-10 curry leaves
• 2 tbsp oil
• 2 tbsp ghee/oil
• 1 lemon, cut into wedges
• Fresh coriander for garnish
• Pav (bread rolls) for serving
• Salt to taste
• Farsan (sev) for topping

How to Make Misal Pav: Step-by-Step

Preparing the Usal (Sprouts Curry)

• Cook sprouts: Pressure cook sprouted matki with turmeric and salt for 3 whistles
• Make masala paste: Grind coconut, Misal masala powder, goda masala with water
• Prepare tadka: Heat oil, add mustard seeds and curry leaves
• Build gravy: Sauté onions until golden, add tomato puree and cook until oil separates
• Combine: Add ground paste and cooked sprouts. Simmer for 10 minutes for Misal rassa

Assembling Misal Pav

• Place ladleful of usal misal in bowl
• Top with finely chopped onions, farsan, and coriander
• Squeeze lemon juice over it
• Serve with fresh pav on side

Pro Tips for Best Misal Pav

• For authentic Misal Pav masala flavor, roast spices fresh
• Adjust spice level with extra Misal masala powder
• Use day-old pav slightly toasted for perfect texture
• Garnish with diced onions and cilantro for crunch

Serving Suggestions

• Traditional: With pav and side of dahi
• Modern: Serve as Misal rassa soup with breadsticks
• Party style: Create DIY topping bar with sev, onions, lemon
• Pair with kadai paneer for protein-rich meal

Nutritional Facts

One serving of this best Misal Pav provides:

• Calories: 350 per serving
• Protein: 15g
• Fiber: 8g
• Iron: 20% DV
• Vitamin C: 25% DV (from lemon)

Variations to Try

• Usal misal recipe - Kolhapuri style with extra heat
• Jain version - No onions/garlic
• Protein boost - Add boiled eggs or paneer butter masala
• Healthy twist - Serve with multigrain pav

Beginner's Tips

If you're learning how to prepare masoor dal:

• Don't overcook - masoor dal becomes mushy quickly
• Adjust water consistency to preference
• Soaking reduces cooking time by 20%
• Add lemon juice to enhance flavor

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What makes authentic Misal Pav different?

Authentic Misal Pav recipe uses specific Indian masalas like goda masala and proper sprouted matki.

2. Can I make Misal without sprouts?

Yes, use mixed legumes or even rajma recipe beans as substitute.

3. Where to buy Misal masala powder?

Find Misal masala powder at Indian grocers or make your own blend.

4. How to store leftovers?

Refrigerate usal misal for 3 days - reheat with little water.

5. What to serve with Misal Pav?

Traditionally with pav, but pairs well with veg biryani too.

Conclusion

This authentic Misal Pav recipe brings the vibrant flavors of Mumbai's streets to your kitchen. Whether you prefer it as spicy Misal rassa or the classic usal misal version, this dish showcases the perfect harmony of sprouts, aromatic Misal Pav masala, and crispy toppings. Don't forget to experiment with the spice levels and garnishes to make it your own signature best Misal Pav.

For more Maharashtrian delicacies or to complement your meal, try our veg biryani or kadai paneer recipes. Share your Misal Pav creations with us in the comments!