urad dal (husked & split black gram) • cumin seeds • black peppercorns, whole or crushed (optional) • curry leaves, chopped • medium onion, finely chopped (optional) • green chilies, chopped • finely chopped ginger • chopped coconut pieces, optional • Coriander leaves, chopped (optional) • salt to taste • oil for deep frying • some water if needed to grind the batter