Mix rice, chana dal, urad dal, and yellow split peas in a large vessel. Soak in a lot of water for about 2 hours. Grind the soaked mixture with chili powder and salt coarsely, without adding much water.
Ferment for about 3 4 hours, then refrigerate or freeze. In cold weather, the fermenting process might take longer, and it might be a good idea to ferment in an oven (the pilot light will keep the mixture warm).
Add either onions (finely cut), carrot (grated) or coconut before preparing.
Freezing Notes: If freezing, only ferment for about an hour. The mixture will have to be left out for a while before being ready to use.