THE TASTE OF FOREIGN LAND

This morning my friend woke me up early and said we have to go try something special. I was still half asleep but the excitement in their voice made me get up.

We walked through streets I had never seen before. Little shops were just opening. People were sweeping their doorsteps and the smell of fresh bread was everywhere. My friend kept saying you will love this place trust me.

We stopped at a small shop with plastic chairs and tables outside. An old man was cooking inside and smoke was rising up. My friend ordered without even looking at the menu and said we are having the special breakfast today.

First they brought out puri with channe. The puris were small and puffy and golden. I poked one and it made a soft sound. The channe was in a bowl next to it was achar and halwa on the side. My friend showed me how to take a puri and make a small hole in it and stuff some channe inside. I put the whole thing in my mouth and wow it was crispy and soft and spicy all at the same time. The channe had so much flavor and the puri melted in my mouth after the first crunch.

While we were eating the man brought out something else. Cheese paratha. It was big and golden and I could see the cheese melting inside when my friend cut it. It was flaky and buttery and when I took a bite the cheese pulled into long strings. So good.

Then came the chai. The chai was hot and creamy and had spices in it that I could not name but they tasted like warmth. I dipped the cheese paratha in the chai and my friend laughed and said yes that is how you do it.

We sat there for a long time just eating and watching people walk by. A dog came and sat near us hoping for some food. My friend gave it a little piece of puri. The sun was getting higher and the street was getting busier.

I thought about how food tastes different in a new place. Not just the flavors but the feeling of eating it. Sitting on a small plastic chair with a friend who wanted to share something they love. Watching a man cook food he has probably made thousands of times.

My stomach was full and happy. My friend paid and would not let me pay. They said next time you can pay. I liked that they already think there will be a next time.

Walking back I felt lucky. Lucky to have friends who take me to small shops. Lucky to try things I cannot even pronounce properly. Lucky that food can make you feel at home even when you are far from home.

I think I will dream about that cheese paratha tonight.