1. Soak dal in water for 3-4 hours. Drain well.
2. Add salt and grind to a stiff smooth batter, using very little ice cold water.
3. (This will prevent the dal from getting hot when ground in mixer and keeps it light)
4. Add rest of the ingredients.

For Covering:

1. Boil water with salt.
2. Add semolina, little at a time, stirring all the time.
3. Cook till it forms a firm paste.
4. Cool and knead till smooth, like chapathi dough (sprinkle some water if necessary).

To Proceed:

1. Divide the covering into lime size balls, and shape them into tiny cups.
2. Place some filling in the center.
3. Pleat the sides to partially enclose the filling.
4. Steam them for 15 minutes.
5. Serve hot with chutney.

Makes: 15 pithas