First, we make the vada curry. In a large pan heat the oil and saute bay leaf, cinnamon, cloves, fennel and hing until it turns aromatic.

Then add the onions, ginger-garlic paste, chilli and curry leaves. Fry well.

Keep on low flame. Add the spice powders and salt now.

Now add tomato and cook until it turns mushy.

In a bowl make Vada with the ingredients mentioned under Vada. You can deep fry or best is using appe maker to cook Vada. Steaming in idli cooker can also be done.

To the original pan add water, drop the small pieces of Chana dal Vada into it. Cover and let it boil for 5-7 mins.

Finally add Coriander to garnish.

Next to make Idlis. Soak urad dal and rice for 5-6 hours. (This step to be done previously).

Soak the poha for 1 hour. Add it to the dal and rice. Grind them all to a smooth paste using little water. Add salt as needed.

Pour batter into idli maker and steam until soft and cooked.

Serve hot Idlis with spicy Vada curry. Chai is best to wash down this spice.