Wash and soak dal for 5 minutes and then put it in boiling water for 15 minutes. The dal will soak up some water and become tender.
Run water through the poha for a minute and then let the water drain completely. Put it in a bowl with the palak and coriander.
Add the dal, salt and spices to the poha and mix till it forms a dough.
Make small balls or cylindrical shapes from the dough. You can also make them into small patties for cutlets.
If making cutlets, shallow fry the dough shapes. If making pakodas, deep fry in sufficient oil and drain on kitchen paper before serving.