Misal Pav Recipe (Authentic Maharashtrian Style)

Introduction

Misal Pav is a popular and flavorful Maharashtrian dish that combines spicy sprouted curry (usal) topped with crunchy farsan, onions, and fresh coriander, served with soft pav (bread rolls). Known for its bold spices, rich aroma, and layered textures, Misal Pav is one of the most loved street foods in Maharashtra.

This dish is not just a snack—it’s a complete meal packed with protein from sprouts and bursting with flavor from traditional Indian spices. Every region in Maharashtra has its own version, such as Kolhapuri Misal (extra spicy) and Pune-style Misal (milder and slightly tangy). No matter the variation, Misal Pav is a comforting and satisfying dish that you can easily prepare at home.

Let’s learn how to make authentic Misal Pav step by step.

Misal Pav Recipe

Preparation Time

20 minutes

Cooking Time

35 minutes

Total Time

55 minutes

Servings

4 servings

Ingredients

For Sprouts (Usal)

2 cups mixed sprouts (moth beans traditionally used)
1 medium onion (finely chopped)
2 medium tomatoes (finely chopped)
2 green chilies (chopped)
1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
2 tablespoons oil
1/2 teaspoon mustard seeds
1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
8–10 curry leaves
1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
1 teaspoon red chili powder
1 tablespoon goda masala or garam masala
Salt to taste
2–3 cups water

For Misal Kat (Spicy Gravy)

2 tablespoons oil
1 teaspoon red chili powder
1/2 teaspoon garam masala
1/2 teaspoon goda masala
1 cup water

For Topping

1 cup farsan (mixture or sev)
1 small onion (finely chopped)
Fresh coriander leaves
Lemon wedges

For Serving

8 pav (bread rolls)
Butter (optional for toasting)

How to Make Misal Pav

Step 1: Cook the Sprouts

Wash the mixed sprouts thoroughly. In a pressure cooker, cook the sprouts with 2 cups of water and a little salt for 2–3 whistles until soft but not mushy. Keep aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Usal (Base Curry)

Heat oil in a pan. Add mustard seeds and let them splutter. Add cumin seeds and curry leaves. Sauté for a few seconds.

Add chopped onions and cook until translucent. Add ginger-garlic paste and green chilies. Sauté for 1 minute.

Now add chopped tomatoes and cook until soft and oil separates.

Add turmeric powder, red chili powder, goda masala (or garam masala), and salt. Mix well.

Add the cooked sprouts along with their water. Adjust consistency by adding more water if required. Let it simmer for 8–10 minutes on low heat.

Your usal is ready.

Step 3: Prepare the Misal Kat (Spicy Gravy Layer)

Heat oil in a small pan. Add red chili powder, garam masala, and goda masala. Quickly add water and mix well.

Simmer for 2–3 minutes. This spicy gravy is poured on top of the usal for extra flavor and heat.

Step 4: Assemble the Misal

In a serving bowl:

Add a layer of hot usal (sprouts curry).
Pour some spicy kat (gravy) over it.
Top generously with farsan.
Add chopped onions and fresh coriander.
Squeeze lemon juice on top.

Toasting the Pav

Slice pav horizontally. Heat butter on a tawa and toast pav until golden and slightly crisp.

Serve hot alongside the misal.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Misal Pav hot with:

Extra farsan on the side
Lemon wedges
Buttermilk or chaas
Sliced onions

For authentic street-style serving, provide extra spicy kat separately so everyone can adjust the spice level.

Tips for Perfect Misal Pav

Traditionally, moth beans sprouts are used for authentic flavor.
Use goda masala for true Maharashtrian taste.
Adjust spice level by increasing or reducing red chili powder.
Do not add farsan too early; it should stay crunchy.
Let the usal simmer properly for deeper flavor.

Variations

Kolhapuri Misal – Extra spicy with more chili and oil layer on top.
Pune Style Misal – Slightly sweet and less spicy.
Jain Version – Skip onion and garlic.
Healthy Version – Reduce oil and skip butter on pav.

Storage Tips

Usal can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheat and adjust consistency with water before serving.
Add toppings fresh while serving.

Conclusion

Misal Pav is a bold, spicy, and satisfying Maharashtrian dish that combines flavors, textures, and aromas beautifully. The softness of pav, the spiciness of kat, the protein-rich sprouts, and the crunch of farsan create a perfect balance in every bite. Whether served as breakfast, brunch, or a hearty snack, Misal Pav never disappoints.

Try this authentic recipe at home and enjoy the taste of Maharashtra in your kitchen.

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