Wash the dal and soak it in 1 cup water for an hour.
Drain and add green chillies, red chillies, ginger, asafoetida and salt.
Grind to a smooth fluffy paste, gradually adding about 1/4 cup water.
Add coriander leaves and mix well.
In a heavy bottom pan heat oil.
Take a lemon sized ball of the paste and place it either on your forefingers or a banana leaf.
Dip your fingers in water and press the ball lightly to form a round patty.
Make a hole in the centre.
Gently slide into the oil and fry on medium flame till golden and crisp.
Drain on a kitchen towel.