Put the rice in a blender or food processor and process until finely ground and the rice resemblessemolina.
Transfer to a large pan.
Pour in about 475ml / 16fl oz (2 cups) water (twice the amount of water to rice) and bring to the boil.
Season with salt, then reduce the heat and cook over low heat, stirring constantly, for about 5 minutes, or until the rice is cooked.
Remove from the heat and put the rice on a wide plate.
Cook the chana dal in another pan of boiling water for about 10 minutes, or until slightly soft, then drain and allow to cool.
Add the chana dal to the cooked rice and mix well.
Using your hands, shape the mixture into lemon-sized balls.
Transfer the balls to a steamer and cook for 5 minutes.
If you don't have a steamer, use a large pan with a lid and place a trivet or upside-down plate in the base.
Pour in enough water so it stays below the top of the trivet and cover with the lid.
Place the balls on a plate and carefully put them on top of the trivet or upside-down plate.
Serve with Raw Tamarind Chutney and a raita.