Authentic Usal Misal Recipe: A Spicy Maharashtrian Street Food Delight

The Usal Misal recipe is a treasured gem in Maharashtrian cuisine, known for its bold, spicy, and tangy flavors that make it a favorite for breakfast or snack time. This dish brings together two main components: Usal, a spicy curry made with sprouted beans, and Misal, a crunchy blend of farsan and savory toppings. Garnished with fresh onions, coriander, and a dash of lemon juice, this street food classic is a perfect balance of textures and flavors. With our authentic Usal Misal recipe, you can recreate this beloved dish at home, capturing the essence of vibrant street flavors in every bite.

Why is it called Usal Misal?

Usal Misal gets its name from its two main components—Usal, a spiced, stir-fried dish made with sprouted beans, and Misal, which means “mixture” in Marathi, representing the layers of crunchy, savory toppings and garnishes. Originating in Maharashtra, India, Usal Misal has a long-standing history as a staple street food in cities like Pune and Mumbai. Traditionally, it symbolizes the vibrant culture of the region, where each bite tells a story of bold spices and comforting flavors. The dish is popular not only for its flavor profile but also for its health benefits, thanks to the sprouted beans in the Usal.

How should Usal Misal Taste?

Usal Misal offers a multi-layered taste experience, balancing spiciness, tanginess, and crunch. The Usal base, made from sprouted beans, is savory and spicy with earthy undertones, enhanced by garam masala, turmeric, and red chili powder. The Misal topping brings a crunchy texture with farsan and is typically doused in a spicy red curry (tarri), adding a punch of heat and depth. The garnishes of onions, coriander, and lemon juice introduce fresh, zesty notes, making each bite a perfect blend of soft, crunchy, spicy, and tangy flavors that keep you coming back for more.

How to Make Usal Misal Super Yummy or Perfect?

Use Fresh Sprouts: Freshly sprouted beans are key for a perfect Usal. If possible, sprout them at home for added flavor and texture.
Balance the Spices: Usal Misal requires a careful balance of spices. Don’t overdo the red chili powder; instead, let the garam masala and cumin shine through for depth.
Get the Misal Toppings Right: The crispy farsan is essential for the crunch. Use a mix of sev and chivda for varied textures.
Prepare a Flavored Tarri: The spicy red curry (tarri) poured over the Misal is what makes this dish stand out. Use fresh, flavorful spices, and simmer well for maximum infusion.
Serve Immediately: Usal Misal is best enjoyed fresh, as the farsan retains its crunchiness and the flavors remain vibrant.

Usal Misal Recipe

Usal Misal is a beloved spicy, tangy, and flavorful Maharashtrian delicacy often enjoyed as a hearty breakfast or snack. This dish combines two key components, Usal—a spicy, sprouted bean curry, and Misal—a mix of crispy farsan and savory toppings. Garnished with fresh onions, coriander, and a squeeze of lemon, Usal Misal is a street food staple that promises a bold taste and satisfying texture in every bite. In this recipe, we guide you through creating an authentic Usal Misal at home, delivering the perfect blend of flavors and textures right to your plate.

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Prep Time 20

Cook Time 30

Total Time 50

Course Breakfast, Snack

Cuisine Indian, Maharashtrian

Servings 4

Calories 280 kcal

Equipment

Large pot or pan
Ladle
Small bowls for toppings
Serving plates or bowls

Ingredients

2 cups sprouted moth beans (matki)
1 large onion, finely chopped
2 tomatoes, chopped
2-3 green chilies, chopped
1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
1 teaspoon turmeric powder
2 teaspoons red chili powder
1 tablespoon garam masala
1 teaspoon cumin seeds
Salt to taste
Fresh coriander, chopped (for garnish)
Farsan (mixture of sev, chivda)
Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions

Cook the Usal:
Heat oil in a large pot. Add cumin seeds and let them splutter.
Add onions, and sauté until golden brown.
Add ginger-garlic paste, green chilies, and cook until aromatic.
Add turmeric powder, red chili powder, and garam masala; sauté for a minute.
Add tomatoes, cook until soft, and add the sprouted beans. Mix well.
Add water, cover, and let it simmer for 20 minutes or until beans are soft.
Prepare the Tarri (spicy curry):
In a separate pan, heat oil. Add onions, sauté until brown, then add spice powders.
Add a little water and let it simmer to make a rich, spicy curry.
Assemble the Misal:
In a bowl, add a layer of Usal, followed by a layer of farsan.
Pour the spicy curry (tarri) on top.
Garnish with chopped onions, coriander, and a squeeze of lemon juice.
Serve: Serve immediately with bread or pav on the side.

Notes

Adjust the spice levels according to your preference.
Usal Misal is traditionally served with pav bread, which adds to the experience.

Conclusion

Usal Misal is the ultimate recipe for those who crave bold flavors and enjoy a medley of textures. It’s a fantastic choice for anyone looking to explore authentic Maharashtrian cuisine or simply wanting a fulfilling, spicy meal. With this recipe, you can recreate this delicious street food at home, impressing your taste buds with its spicy, crunchy, and tangy notes. Gather your ingredients and experience the joy of Usal Misal in every mouthful!