On stove: heat oil in a pan and add mustard seeds. Let it splutter. Add finely chopped onion, curry leaves and green chillies. Sauté for just 2 to 3 mins and switch off the flame. Onion needs to be crunchy to give more taste.

Heat paniyaram/Appam pan and add 1/2 tsp oil to each mold. Drop in the mixed batter. Cook on both sides until done.