Misal Pav with Love: A Spicy Symphony of Flavors and Affection

Introduction

Misal Pav is a popular Maharashtrian street food dish that’s packed with flavors and textures. It typically consists of spicy sprouted lentil curry (Misal) served with pav (Indian bread). This recipe will guide you through creating this delicious and hearty dish from scratch, Misal Pav with Love: A Spicy Symphony of Flavors and Affection.

Ingredients:

• For the Misal:
  • 1 cup sprouted mixed lentils (moth beans, mung beans, chickpeas, etc.)
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 2 medium tomatoes, finely chopped
  • 2-3 green chilies, chopped
  • 3-4 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 1-inch ginger, grated
  • 2 tbsp oil
  • 1 tsp mustard seeds
  • 1 tsp cumin seeds
  • 1/2 tsp asafoetida (hing)
  • 1 tsp turmeric powder
  • 2-3 tbsp Misal masala (store-bought or homemade)
  • Salt to taste
  • Water
• For the Garnish:
  • Fresh coriander leaves, chopped
  • 1/2 cup farsan (spicy snack mix)
  • Lemon wedges
  • Finely chopped onions
• For Pav (Bread):
  • 4-6 pav (Indian bread rolls)
  • Butter for toasting

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Sprouted Lentils

1. Wash and soak mixed lentils overnight. Drain and tie them in a muslin cloth for 8-10 hours to sprout.

Step 2: Cook the Lentils

1. Pressure cook the sprouted lentils with water and a pinch of salt until they’re soft but not mushy.

Step 3: Prepare the Misal Base

1. Heat oil in a pan, add mustard seeds, cumin seeds, and let them splutter.
2. Add asafoetida, chopped onions, and sauté until golden brown.
3. Stir in ginger, garlic, and green chilies. Sauté for a minute.
4. Add chopped tomatoes, turmeric powder, and cook until the oil separates.
5. Mix in the Misal masala and sauté for a couple of minutes.

Step 4: Add the Cooked Lentils

1. Add the cooked sprouted lentils to the mixture and mix well.
2. Add water to achieve the desired consistency. Simmer for 10-15 minutes.

Step 5: Adjust Seasoning and Spice Level

1. Adjust salt and spice level according to your taste by adding more Misal masala or green chilies.

Step 6: Prepare the Pav

1. Slit the pav without breaking them into two. Heat a pan and toast the pav with a little butter until they’re slightly crispy.

Step 7: Serve the Misal Pav

1. Pour the Misal into a bowl.
2. Garnish with farsan, chopped onions, and coriander leaves.
3. Serve with toasted pav and lemon wedges on the side.

Conclusion

Misal Pav is a delightful and spicy dish that’s perfect for breakfast or brunch. The blend of sprouted lentils, spices, and the crunch of farsan make it a must-try dish for any Indian street food enthusiast. Enjoy this authentic taste of Maharashtra right in your own home!