After nearly two weeks in India, I think I can state that I’m learning to eat spicy food. Maybe I should say I’m learning a few of the tricks and techniques.
The tricks: Order a side bowl of curd, which is something like a thin, unflavored yogurt. It, along with various types of flat breads, really does cut the heat. Riatha (you’re on the Internet; why not look it up?) is a little fancier, and performs the same purpose nicely.
The techniques: You may have heard that Indians eat with their hands, but it’s definitely a one-handed procedure. If you have some of that flat bread, you fold it and tear off a piece (get that left hand back in your lap!), and then grab some of the meat or vegetable mixture in the fold of the bread. Without bread, it definitely feels like you’re disregarding everything your mother taught you when you were three, but it does take a little practice to master the correct scoop and shovel method.
I can’t say I’ve yet learned, though, why people want to eat food that makes their mouths and lips burn! If I do, I’ll let you know.
3 comments:
I loved this post--particularly the words: "side bowl of curd" and "scoop and shovel method." So glad you're enjoying your new culture. (Also glad I'll be eating my Cheerios, milk, and blueberries using a spoon this morning! In order to fully feel your challenges, I'm going to try to prepare and consume the aforementioned breakfast with just my right hand!)
Have you seen any golden arches or other fast food places we'd recognize?
What kind of veggies do they serve there? I'm guessing that your standard Orlando fare of a bagel with a large bowl of broccoli isn't typical?
Keep the posts coming. I'm really enjoying them.
Hi Cathy, I received an email from Donna with the link to your blog. I'll be adding it to my favorite places so I can check back regularly. I knew you were going but hadn't realized you were already there. How exciting! I'm living vicariously! Will also be praying for you.
Hey, Cathy -
Mary Jo just told me about your blog. What a great idea! You're going to come back a changed person - I treasure the time that I spent overseas. I envy you having the food there - Indian is my very favorite. Be brave and try it all!
Frip.
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