Egg Misal Pav
A vibrant and spicy Maharashtrian street food classic with a protein-packed twist. This recipe features a flavorful sprouted moth bean curry topped with crunchy farsan, fresh onions, and a perfectly boiled egg, all served with soft pav bread.
For 4 servings
4 steps. 45 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Cook Sprouts and Eggs
- b.In a pressure cooker, combine the sprouted moth beans, 1/4 tsp of the turmeric powder, 1/2 tsp of the salt, and 2 cups of water.
- c.Secure the lid and pressure cook on medium heat for 2 whistles, approximately 10-12 minutes. Allow the pressure to release naturally.
- d.While the sprouts cook, place the 4 eggs in a separate saucepan, cover with water, and bring to a boil. Cook for 10-12 minutes for hard-boiled eggs. Drain, cool in cold water, then peel and slice or grate them.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Prepare the Misal Base (Usal)
- b.Heat 3 tbsp of oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot (kadai) over medium heat.
- c.Add the 2 chopped onions and sauté for 7-8 minutes until they turn soft and golden brown.
- d.Add the ginger-garlic paste and cook for 1 minute until the raw aroma disappears.
- e.Stir in the chopped tomatoes and cook for 6-7 minutes, until they break down and oil begins to separate from the masala.
- f.Add the dry spice powders: remaining turmeric, red chili powder, coriander powder, cumin powder, and 2 tbsp of misal masala. Sauté for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until fragrant. Add a splash of water if the spices stick.
- g.Pour in the cooked sprouts along with their cooking water. Mix everything well.
- h.Add the tamarind paste, jaggery, and the remaining 1 tsp of salt. Pour in 2 more cups of water. Bring the curry to a boil.
- i.Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 12-15 minutes for the flavors to meld together.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Make the Spicy Tarri (Kat)
- b.In a small separate pan (tadka pan), heat 1/4 cup of oil over medium-high heat until it is very hot.
- c.Add the crushed garlic and sauté for just 10-15 seconds until lightly fragrant.
- d.IMPORTANT: Turn off the heat completely. Immediately add the remaining 1 tbsp misal masala and 1 tsp Kashmiri red chili powder to the hot oil. Stir quickly for 5 seconds to prevent burning.
- e.Carefully pour in 1.5 cups of hot water. Be cautious as the mixture will splutter intensely.
- f.Turn the heat back on to medium. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5-7 minutes until a vibrant red layer of oil (the 'tarri') floats on top.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Assemble and Serve
- b.To serve, take a deep bowl. First, ladle a generous portion of the misal base (usal with sprouts).
- c.Pour a few spoonfuls of the spicy red tarri over the usal. Adjust the amount based on your preferred spice level.
- d.Arrange the sliced or grated hard-boiled egg on top.
- e.Generously sprinkle with farsan, finely chopped raw onion, and fresh coriander leaves.
- f.Serve immediately with a lemon wedge on the side and 2 pavs per person. The pav can be lightly toasted with butter for extra flavor.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1To sprout moth beans (matki) at home, soak them overnight, drain, and keep them in a warm, dark place (like a casserole or covered bowl) for 24-36 hours until sprouts appear.
- 2The key to a flavorful 'tarri' is using very hot oil and adding the spice powders off the heat to bloom their flavor without burning them.
- 3For a vibrant red color without extreme heat, use a high-quality, mild Kashmiri red chili powder in the tarri.
- 4Assemble the misal just before serving to ensure the farsan remains crunchy and doesn't become soggy.
- 5You can prepare the usal and tarri in advance. Store them separately in the refrigerator and reheat before assembling.
Adapt it for your goals.
Vegan
Simply omit the hard-boiled egg for a completely plant-based version of this dish.
Puneri Misal StylePuneri Misal Style
Substitute the sprouted moth beans with boiled white peas (safed vatana) and add cooked, diced potatoes to the usal.
With CoconutWith Coconut
Create a paste by sautéing 1/4 cup of dry coconut (kopra) and one sliced onion until brown. Grind this into a fine paste and add it to the misal base after the tomatoes for a richer, thicker gravy.
Extra SpicyExtra Spicy
Sauté 2-3 slit green chilies along with the onions in the misal base for an extra layer of heat.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Excellent Source of Protein
The combination of sprouted moth beans and eggs provides high-quality protein, essential for muscle repair, growth, and overall body function.
High in Dietary Fiber
Sprouted beans are rich in dietary fiber, which aids in digestion, promotes gut health, and helps in maintaining a feeling of fullness, which can support weight management.
Rich in Iron and Minerals
Moth beans are a good source of iron, which is crucial for preventing anemia and maintaining energy levels. They also provide other essential minerals like magnesium and potassium.
Boosts Energy Levels
The complex carbohydrates from the legumes provide a steady release of energy, making this a hearty and satisfying meal that can keep you energized for hours.
Frequently asked questions
One serving of Egg Misal Pav, including the pav and toppings, contains approximately 650-750 calories, depending on the amount of oil and farsan used.