Kadle Manoli Gassi
A classic Mangalorean curry that brings together earthy brown chickpeas and tender ivy gourd in a luscious roasted coconut and spice gravy. The deep flavors of roasted coriander, fenugreek, and red chilies mellow perfectly with tamarind and jaggery, creating that signature balance of heat, tang, and sweetness this coastal dish is loved for.
For 4 servings
- pressure cook · ~20 min
Pressure cook the chickpeas.
1.Drain soaked chickpeas and add them to a pressure cooker with 1.5 cups water.2.Pressure cook on medium heat for 6-7 whistles or until chickpeas are soft but hold their shape.3.Set aside with the cooking liquid.TIPDon't discard the chickpea cooking water — it adds body and flavor to the gravy. - roast · ~10 min
Roast the coconut masala base.
1.Heat a heavy-bottomed pan on medium-low flame. Add coriander seeds, fenugreek seeds, cumin seeds, dried red chilies, and black peppercorns.2.Dry roast for 2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the spices darken slightly and smell fragrant.3.Add the grated coconut and continue roasting until golden brown (3-4 minutes).4.Add chopped onion and garlic cloves. Sauté until the onion turns translucent.5.Remove from heat and let the mixture cool completely.TIPKeep the heat low while roasting fenugreek seeds — they burn easily and turn bitter. - mix · ~3 min
Grind the masala paste.
1.Transfer the cooled roasted mixture to a blender.2.Add a splash of water and grind to a smooth, thick paste.TIPScrape all the roasted bits from the sides of the blender jar for maximum flavor. - simmer · ~10 min
Simmer the ivy gourd in the gravy.
1.In the same heavy-bottomed pan, combine the ground masala paste with 0.5 cup water and bring to a gentle boil.2.Add the sliced ivy gourd pieces and turmeric powder. Stir well.3.Simmer on medium-low heat, covered, until the ivy gourd is tender but not mushy (8-10 minutes). - simmer · ~10 min
Add chickpeas and finish the gravy.
1.Add the cooked chickpeas along with their cooking liquid to the pan.2.Stir in tamarind paste and jaggery, then season with salt.3.Adjust water to reach a thick, flowing curry consistency.4.Simmer for 8-10 minutes so the chickpeas absorb the masala flavors.TIPThe gravy should coat the back of a spoon but still flow — it thickens slightly on resting. - temper · ~2 min
Make the coconut oil tadka.
1.Heat coconut oil in a small tadka pan over medium heat until shimmering.2.Add mustard seeds and wait until they pop and splutter.3.Toss in curry leaves and saute for 10 seconds until crisp and fragrant.TIPCover the pan with a lid when the mustard seeds pop — they jump out of the pan. - garnish · ~1 min
Pour the tempering over the curry and serve hot.
Immediately pour the hot tadka over the simmering curry — listen for the sizzle. Mix gently and serve with steamed rice or dosa.
What to keep in mind.
6 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Soak brown chickpeas overnight for even cooking and a creamy texture.
- 2Roast fenugreek seeds on low heat — they turn bitter quickly if burned.
- 3Use the chickpea cooking water in the gravy for extra body and flavor.
- 4Simmer ivy gourd until just tender; overcooking turns it mushy.
- 5Adjust gravy consistency with water — it thickens as it rests.
- 6Pour the hot tadka over the curry just before serving to preserve its aroma.
Adapt it for your goals.
Vegan
Already vegan as written. Use jaggery or coconut sugar for sweetener; no substitutions needed.
low oilLow-oil
Reduce coconut oil for tadka to 1 teaspoon. Dry roast mustard seeds and curry leaves in a non-stick pan for a lighter version.
substitute ivy gourdSubstitute-ivy-gourd
Replace ivy gourd with diced eggplant or raw banana for a different texture while keeping the coastal flavor profile.
protein boostProtein-boost
Add cubed paneer or tofu along with chickpeas for extra protein, simmering gently to absorb the masala.
Why this is on our healthy list.
High in Plant Protein
Brown chickpeas are an excellent source of plant-based protein, making this curry a satisfying and nutritious main dish.
Rich in Dietary Fiber
Both chickpeas and ivy gourd contribute dietary fiber, supporting healthy digestion and sustained energy levels.
Good Source of Antioxidants
Roasted spices like fenugreek, coriander, and red chilies provide antioxidant compounds that help combat oxidative stress.
Balanced Micronutrients
Coconut offers healthy medium-chain fats, while curry leaves and tamarind supply iron, calcium, and vitamin C.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, use one 400g can, rinsed. Skip pressure cooking and add them in step 5 with 1/2 cup water for the gravy.



