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Tasting Home

Recently I found myself in the mood for dinner at an Indian restaurant - something of a rarity for us. There are many complicated Indian dishes I love and don't have the time to cook at home, but its not possible to get them in the average desi restaurant in America either. So there is very little incentive for me to choose Indian over the innumerable other dining options.

The place we picked that was in the older part of town, near the local university. It was late of a weeknight and we were among the half dozen people seated inside. Most tables were empty. A Mohammed Rafi playlist from Bollywood movies made in the 50s and 60s played in the background. The smell of spices and incense along with the music created the ambience I think I might have been craving not having been home for a long time and with no line of sight into when that may be possible. 

The waiter had impeccable manners and knew everything about every item in the menu. The quality of service we received that evening was something I had not experienced in a while. The food was cooked with care and tasted authentic. None of what we ate was too complicated to make at home but still a very enjoyable meal. Speaking of complicated things to cook, one day when I am feeling brave I want to give this cabbage recipe a try.

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