Chanyacho Ros
A classic Goan vegetarian curry made with tender chickpeas simmered in a fragrant, roasted coconut gravy. The blend of sweet jaggery, tangy tamarind, and warm spices makes this a truly unique and comforting dish.
For 4 servings
6 steps. 40 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Prepare the Chickpeas
- b.Rinse the dried chickpeas and soak them in ample water for at least 8 hours or overnight.
- c.Drain the soaking water. Transfer the chickpeas to a pressure cooker, add 2 cups of fresh water and 0.5 tsp of salt.
- d.Pressure cook on medium heat for 4-5 whistles, or until the chickpeas are soft and can be easily mashed between your fingers but still hold their shape.
- e.Once the pressure releases naturally, set aside the cooked chickpeas along with their cooking liquid. Do not discard the liquid.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Roast the Masala Ingredients
- b.Heat a heavy-bottomed pan or kadai on low-medium heat. Add the grated coconut and dry roast, stirring continuously for 8-10 minutes until it turns a deep golden brown and releases a nutty aroma. Transfer to a plate to cool.
- c.In the same pan, dry roast the coriander seeds, cumin seeds, and dried red chilies for 1-2 minutes until they are fragrant. Be careful not to burn them.
- d.Let all the roasted ingredients cool down completely.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Grind the Coconut Masala
- b.In a high-speed blender or grinder jar, combine the cooled roasted coconut, roasted spices, turmeric powder, and tamarind paste.
- c.Add about 0.5 to 1 cup of water, a little at a time, and grind to a very smooth, fine paste. The consistency should be like a thick batter.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Prepare the Curry Base (Tadka)
- b.Heat the coconut oil in the same kadai or a deep pot over medium heat.
- c.Once the oil is hot, add the mustard seeds and allow them to splutter completely.
- d.Add the curry leaves and hing (asafoetida). Sauté for about 20-30 seconds until the leaves are crisp.
- e.Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for 5-7 minutes until it becomes soft, translucent, and the edges start to turn golden.
- 5
Step 5
- a.Simmer the Curry
- b.Add the ground coconut masala paste to the pot. Sauté for 4-5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the paste thickens, the raw smell disappears, and you see oil separating from the sides.
- c.Add the cooked chickpeas along with all their cooking liquid. Stir well to combine.
- d.Add the grated jaggery and the remaining 1 tsp of salt. Pour in another 0.5 to 1 cup of water to adjust the gravy to your desired consistency.
- e.Bring the curry to a gentle boil. Then, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 10-12 minutes. This allows all the flavors to meld together beautifully.
- 6
Step 6
- a.Garnish and Serve
- b.Taste the curry and adjust the salt, jaggery, or tamarind if needed to achieve the perfect balance of flavors.
- c.Turn off the heat, garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves.
- d.Serve hot with steamed Goan rice (Ukda Xit), pao (local bread), or chapatis.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the most authentic flavor, use freshly grated coconut. Desiccated coconut will not yield the same creamy texture and taste.
- 2Roasting the coconut to a deep golden brown is the most crucial step. It develops the signature nutty, rich flavor of the curry.
- 3The cooking liquid from the chickpeas is full of flavor and nutrients. Always add it to the gravy.
- 4This curry tastes even better the next day as the flavors mature. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- 5For a traditional touch, you can add 2-3 pieces of tirphal (Teppal/Sichuan pepper) while grinding the masala. It adds a unique, pungent aroma.
Adapt it for your goals.
Add Vegetables
You can add 1 medium potato (cubed) or a handful of drumstick pieces along with the chickpeas while pressure cooking for a more wholesome curry.
Use Black ChickpeasUse Black Chickpeas
Substitute Kabuli Chana with Kala Chana (black chickpeas) for a nuttier flavor and firmer texture. The soaking and cooking time may need to be adjusted.
Spicier VersionSpicier Version
Increase the number of dried red chilies or add 1-2 fresh green chilies along with the onions for extra heat.
Creamier GravyCreamier Gravy
For an even richer gravy, you can add 1 teaspoon of poppy seeds (khus khus) while roasting the spices.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Plant-Based Protein
Chickpeas are an excellent source of plant-based protein, which is essential for muscle building, tissue repair, and overall body function.
High in Dietary Fiber
The high fiber content from chickpeas aids in digestion, promotes gut health, helps maintain stable blood sugar levels, and contributes to a feeling of fullness.
Provides Healthy Fats
Coconut is a source of medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), a type of healthy fat that can provide quick energy. The use of coconut oil also contributes to these benefits.
Source of Essential Minerals
This dish is a good source of minerals like manganese, folate, and iron from chickpeas, which are vital for energy production, red blood cell formation, and bone health.
Frequently asked questions
One serving of Chanyacho Ros (approximately 1 cup or 320g) contains around 380-420 calories, primarily from chickpeas, coconut, and oil.
