Masala Beans (or Peppers) Poriyal

1 lb green beans or green bell peppers, finely chopped
salt, water

masala:
2 tsp oil
3 tbsp chana dal
1 tbsp urad dal
2 tbsp coriander seeds
4 red chilies
1/2 tsp asafoetida powder
4 tbsp grated fresh coconut or 5 1/2 tbsp flaked coconut
marble-sized piece of tamarind pulp
salt, water

for tempering:
1 tbsp oil
1 tsp mustard seeds
1 tsp chana dal
1 tsp urad dal
1 red chili
1/2 tsp asafoetida
1 tsp cumin seeds
a few curry leaves

Heat the oil and all the masala ingredients except coconut and tamarind. Blend in a blender or food processor, adding water as necessary to make a thick smooth paste.
If using beans: add them to a skillet with just a little water and salt, cook until tender. If using peppers, skip this.
Heat the tempering ingredients. When the mustard seeds splutter, add the masala paste. Cook on low 5-7 minutes until dry and crisp. Add the beans/peppers, cook 2-3 minutes until well blended.

Source: Dakshin, Vegetarian Cuisine from South India by Chandra Padmanabhan