Soak the broken wheat and dals (combine all dals to make ½ cup) for at least an hour.

When grinding, add the jeera, saunf, pepper, curry leaves, salt and water and grind to make a smooth batter (you can also leave it coarsely ground if you like the texture). Add the hing and mix well.

Just before making the ada, add the chopped onions (if using), and make some thin, crispy adas,  Serve hot with your favorite chutney or sambar