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Misal Pav – Spicy Maharashtrian Street Food

Misal Pav is a spicy, tangy, and flavorful Maharashtrian street food loved across India. Made with sprouted moth beans cooked in a fiery curry (misal) and topped with crunchy farsan (namkeen), onions, and lemon, it’s served with butter-toasted pav (bread rolls).

This iconic dish is especially famous in Pune, Kolhapur, and Nashik, each region having its unique version. Known for its spice level, Misal Pav is a must-try for foodies who love bold flavors.

🥗 Health Benefits

  • ✅ Rich in plant protein from sprouts.
  • ✅ High in fiber and aids digestion.
  • ✅ A filling and energetic meal.

Misal Pav – Spicy Maharashtrian Street Food

Misal Pav is a spicy, tangy, and flavorful Maharashtrian street food loved across India. Made with sprouted moth beans cooked in a fiery curry (misal) and topped with crunchy farsan (namkeen), onions, and lemon, it’s served with butter-toasted pav (bread rolls).
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Breakfast, Snack
Cuisine: Indian, Maharashtrian
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Ingredients
  • 1 cup moth beans matki, sprouted
  • 1 large onion chopped
  • 2 tomatoes chopped
  • 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
  • 2 tbsp Misal masala or garam masala
  • 1 tsp red chili powder
  • ½ tsp turmeric
  • 2 tbsp oil
  • Salt to taste
  • 2 cups water
For garnish: farsan (sev or chiwda), onions, coriander, lemon wedges
For serving: butter-toasted pav

Method
 

Cooking Instructions
  1. Cook sprouts: Pressure cook sprouted moth beans with water until tender.
  2. Prepare curry: Heat oil, sauté onions until golden. Add ginger-garlic paste, tomatoes, and spices. Cook until oil separates.
  3. Add sprouts: Mix cooked sprouts into masala, add water, and simmer for 10 minutes.
  4. Assemble: Serve misal in bowls, top with farsan, onions, coriander, and lemon juice.
  5. Serve with: toasted pav on the side.

Notes

🍽️ Serving Suggestions
  • Pair with butter pav for the authentic street-food feel.
  • Best enjoyed with buttermilk or chaas to balance spice.
  • A small bowl of curd helps tone down the heat.
❓ FAQs
Q: Can I use moong sprouts instead of moth beans?
A: Yes, moong sprouts work as a substitute.
Q: Why is Misal Pav spicy?
A: The Kolhapuri version uses a fiery red chili misal masala, but you can adjust spice levels.
Q: Is Misal Pav a breakfast or lunch dish?
A: Traditionally eaten as breakfast or brunch, but works as a complete meal anytime.