Latest news with #Misal
Indian Express
3 hours ago
- General
- Indian Express
Misal grabs 18th spot in TasteAtlas' ‘50 Best Breakfasts' list; how this humble Maharashtrian dish became a symbol of pride
Misal, chole bhature, and paratha, three beloved staples from Indian kitchens, have been named among the 50 Best Breakfasts in the World, as per the latest list released by TasteAtlas, a global food and travel guide. Misal secured the 18th spot, while paratha came in at 23rd, and chole bhature came in at 32nd. 'These are the best breakfasts of the world!' the caption mentions. While Turkey's Kahvaltı secured the top position, followed by Serbia's Komplet Lepinja, the recognition of Misal, chole bhature, and paratha reflects how deeply comforting and culturally significant Indian breakfasts are. Misal, a fiery and flavourful curry made with sprouted moth beans, topped with farsan and chopped onions, is often served with pav and a slice of lemon. Originally from Maharashtra, this dish is known for its spicy, tangy punch and regional variations. Its roots go beyond taste — it's a reflection of humble ingredients transformed into a hearty, energising start to the day. Alok Singh, expert on food history and science at Diga Organics, tells 'Misal's popularity stems from its deep roots in Maharashtrian working-class culture. It originated as a nourishing, protein-rich breakfast that provided lasting energy to labourers and farmers, especially in rural regions like Kolhapur. The combination of sprouted legumes, spicy gravy, farsan, and pav made it affordable and sustaining. Over time, misal evolved into a cultural staple, served in homes, canteens, and street stalls across the state.' A post shared by TasteAtlas (@tasteatlas) Its popularity is also linked to how it combines Maharashtra's love for spice, layered textures, and community-style eating. Even today, he says that a plate of misal is 'more than food; it's a symbol of regional pride, heritage, and hospitality.' The two most common variations are Kolhapuri and Puneri. Singh mentions that Kolhapuri misal is known for its fiery spice levels and robust flavour profile, reflecting the bold culinary traditions of southern Maharashtra. Puneri misal, on the other hand, is milder, slightly sweet, and often garnished with yoghurt, mirroring Pune's more subdued and refined palate. 'These variations reflect not just regional taste preferences but also each region's lifestyle, climate, and food philosophies. For instance, hotter regions often lean into spicier foods, while urban centers like Pune adapt traditional recipes with modern moderation. This diversity within a single dish like Misal showcases Maharashtra's rich culinary pluralism and its ability to localise flavour without compromising identity,' he informs. Preserving traditional cooking methods and ingredients is vital, not just for culinary heritage, but also for public health. Singh explains, 'The original Misal recipe uses sprouted moth beans, which are high in plant-based protein, fibre, and micronutrients. The preparation involves slow cooking, use of homemade spices, and minimal processing, all of which contribute to better nutrition.' He adds that as Indian breakfasts like Misal receive global attention, there's a risk of commercial versions diluting their nutritional value in favor of convenience. Preserving authenticity ensures that these dishes remain wholesome and rooted in local food wisdom. It also supports regional farmers and small-scale spice producers who form the backbone of India's food ecosystem. 'In a time where highly processed foods are linked to metabolic disorders, going back to our roots, literally and figuratively, could be one of the best health decisions we make as a society,' says the expert.
Indian Express
29-05-2025
- Health
- Indian Express
Home Guard fitness test turns fatal for 2 aspirants in Odisha, 4 fall ill
Two Home Guard job aspirants died and four others fell ill while appearing for the physical fitness test in Odisha's Gajapati district on Thursday. The two aspirants who died were identified as Sulanta Misal, a native of Parisal village, and Deepak Padal from Narayanpur village. According to police, the physical test was conducted by the district police at Betaguda in Ranipeetha, and the candidates had to complete a two-km run. After completing the run, Misal collapsed and was rushed to the Paralakhemundi district headquarters hospital, where doctors declared him dead. Padal was among several candidates who fell ill after appearing for the test and were immediately rushed to the Paralakhemundi hospital. When Padal's condition deteriorated, he was rushed to the MKCG Medical College in Berhampur, where he died in the evening. Misal, the only son of Pramila, a widow, was in his final year of graduation. To support his family and carry forward his studies, he also practised tailoring. 'My son had promised that he would clear the test and get the job. But he never returned. I have no one else in this world,' said Pramila. The Gajapati police filed two unnatural death cases and are conducting an inquiry into the deaths. Officials said that over 1,000 male candidates and 200 female candidates participated in the physical test for the Home Guard recruitment drive. The male candidates are required to complete the two-km run in 10 minutes, and the female candidates are required to complete it in 12 minutes. Expressing concern over the death of two candidates, Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi announced ex gratia of Rs 4 lakh each to their families. In March, a 19-year-old aspirant died while appearing for the physical endurance test during a Home Guard recruitment drive in Deogarh district. Earlier in that month, two engineers and another youth had died during a 25-km walking test as part of a physical fitness examination for recruitment to the posts of foresters and forest guards.
