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.