Misal Pav

Misal pav is a popular street food from Maharashtra, India. It is a spicy, flavorful dish made with a combination of sprouted lentils, vegetables, and a spicy gravy. The dish is typically served with pav, a type of Indian bread roll.

Misal pav has a long and storied history. It is believed to have originated in the Kolhapur region of Maharashtra in the 19th century. The dish was originally created as a way to use up leftover dal, or lentils. Over time, the dish evolved into the popular street food that it is today.

Prep time: 15 | Cook time: 30 | Serves: 4

Ingredients

• 1 cup toor dal
• 2 cups water
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 tomato, chopped
• 1 green chili, chopped
• 1 teaspoon ginger-garlic paste
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon red chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1/4 teaspoon coriander seeds

Instructions

1. Rinse the toor dal and soak it in water for at least 30 minutes.
2. Drain the dal and add it to a pressure cooker along with the water.
3. Close the pressure cooker and cook the dal on high heat until it is cooked through, about 15 minutes.
4. Once the dal is cooked, let the pressure release naturally.
5. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or kadai over medium heat.
6. Add the onion and cook until it is softened, about 5 minutes.
7. Add the tomato, green chili, ginger-garlic paste, turmeric powder, red chili powder, cumin seeds, and coriander seeds.
8. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the spices are fragrant and the tomato has softened.

Why It Works

• The combination of sprouted lentils, vegetables, and spices creates a flavorful and nutritious dish.
• The spicy gravy adds a kick of heat that balances out the sweetness of the lentils and vegetables.
• The pav provides a starchy base that soaks up the gravy and adds a satisfying crunch.