Chawli Ambat
A classic Maharashtrian curry made with tender black-eyed peas in a tangy, spicy coconut gravy. This comforting dish, flavored with tamarind and a special goda masala, is perfect with steamed rice or bhakri.
For 4 servings
Cook the Black-Eyed Peas
- Wash the pre-soaked black-eyed peas and drain them.
- In a pressure cooker, combine the soaked peas, 2.5 cups of fresh water, and the turmeric powder.
- Pressure cook on medium heat for 4-5 whistles, or until the peas are tender but still hold their shape. Allow the pressure to release naturally.
Prepare the Masala Paste (Vatan)
- Heat 1 tbsp of oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and sauté for 5-6 minutes until golden brown.
- Add the ginger, garlic, dried red chillies, coriander seeds, cumin seeds, and black peppercorns. Roast for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the grated coconut and roast on low heat, stirring continuously for 3-4 minutes until it turns light brown and aromatic. Do not let it burn.
- Turn off the heat and let the mixture cool completely. Transfer it to a grinder, add a few tablespoons of water, and grind to a very smooth paste.
Temper and Sauté the Masala
- In a deep pot or kadai, heat the remaining 2 tbsp of oil over medium heat.
- Add the mustard seeds and let them splutter. Follow with the curry leaves and asafoetida.
- Carefully add the ground masala paste. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the paste thickens and you see oil separating from the sides.
- Stir in the goda masala and cook for another 30 seconds.
Combine and Simmer the Curry
- Add the cooked black-eyed peas along with their cooking water to the pot.
- Stir in the tamarind pulp, jaggery, and salt. Mix well to combine all the ingredients.
- Add about 1 cup of hot water, or more, to achieve your desired gravy consistency.
- Bring the curry to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 8-10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Garnish and Serve
- Garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves.
- Serve hot with steamed rice, jowar bhakri, or chapati.
What to keep in mind.
6 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Soaking the black-eyed peas overnight is crucial for even cooking and a tender texture.
- 2Roasting the coconut until it's golden brown is the secret to the deep, nutty flavor of authentic Chawli Ambat.
- 3Goda masala is essential for the unique Maharashtrian taste. If unavailable, garam masala can be used, but the flavor profile will differ.
- 4Balance the tangy and sweet flavors by adjusting the amount of tamarind and jaggery to your preference.
- 5For a vibrant red color without excessive heat, use Kashmiri or Byadgi dried red chillies.
- 6The curry will thicken as it cools. Adjust the consistency with a little hot water before serving if needed.
Adapt it for your goals.
With Vegetables
Add vegetables like drumsticks (moringa), pumpkin, or brinjal (eggplant) along with the black-eyed peas for added nutrition and texture.
Creamier VersionCreamier Version
For a richer, creamier gravy, you can add 2-3 cashews while grinding the coconut masala paste.
Different LegumesDifferent Legumes
This recipe can also be made with other legumes like kidney beans (rajma), moth beans (matki), or a mix of lentils. Adjust cooking times accordingly.
Jain/No Onion Garlic VersionJain/No Onion-Garlic Version
To make it without onion and garlic, simply skip them during the masala preparation. The flavor will be different but still delicious, relying more on the coconut and spices.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Plant-Based Protein
Black-eyed peas are an excellent source of protein, crucial for muscle repair, cell growth, and overall body function, making this dish a great option for vegetarians and vegans.
High in Dietary Fiber
The high fiber content from the peas aids in digestion, promotes gut health, helps regulate blood sugar levels, and contributes to a feeling of fullness, which can help with weight management.
Boosts Iron Levels
Black-eyed peas are a good source of iron, which is essential for preventing anemia and maintaining energy levels by helping transport oxygen throughout the body.
Flavorful Spice Blend
The traditional spices used, like turmeric, coriander, and cumin, are known for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, contributing to overall wellness.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, it's quite healthy. It's rich in plant-based protein and fiber from black-eyed peas, which aids digestion and keeps you full. The use of whole spices and fresh coconut provides essential nutrients and healthy fats. To make it healthier, you can reduce the amount of oil used.