- Drain and wash the black eyed peas. Cook till done in a pressure cooker with water and salt. Drain and set aside.  
- In a pan, roast the spices first just till aromatic. Empty into a large grinder jar to cool. 
- In the same pan, dry roast the coconut, onion and garlic till the coconut turns golden brown. Make sure to stir in between to avoid burning.  
- Add into the grinder jar with the spices. Allow to cool. 
- Add turmeric powder and water little by little to grind the mixture to a smooth paste. You can add upto one cup of water.  
- In a saucepan, add the drained peas and the ground mixture. Add water as necessary. Bring to simmer.  
- Adjust seasoning, add the sugar. Simmer for around ten minutes or till the gravy tastes done. 
- Switch off and sprinkle the coriander leaves. 
- Prepare tempering by heating coconut oil. Splutter the mustard seeds, fry the asafoetida and curry leaves. Switch off and sprinkle on the curry. 
- Let the curry rest for around ten minutes. Enjoy it warm with rice or roti.