Pappodam Lover: The Timeless Delight of Pappadoms
Growing up, pappadoms were not just a side dish; they were a symbol of joy and simplicity in my life. These crispy, flavorful discs have been a constant companion through various stages of my life, encapsulating memories of family dinners, festive gatherings, and quiet evenings at home. Can you imagine a Kerala meal without Pappadoms? My childhood was peppered with the delightful crunch of pappadoms, a sound that still, to this day, evokes a sense of comfort and nostalgia.
The ritual of eating 4-5 pappadoms with rice became more than just a habit; it was a moment of pure bliss that I looked forward to with each meal. This wasn’t merely about indulging in my favorite snack; it was about reconnecting with a simpler time when happiness was found in the smallest of things. Even now, as an adult, my inner child leaps with joy at the sight of a freshly prepared stalk of pappadoms. It’s a testament to the fact that some loves, especially those formed in the tender years of childhood, remain unaltered by time.
Interestingly, my journey with pappadoms has also been one of discovery and adaptation. After moving to the UK, I stumbled upon a quick and easy method to prepare pappadoms in the microwave. This revelation was a game-changer, offering me the convenience of enjoying my beloved snack without the traditional fuss of frying. Yet, despite the efficiency and ease this method provided, my heart still sways towards the traditional fry-in-oil technique. There’s something incomparably satisfying about the aroma of pappadoms crackling in hot oil, a sensory delight that the microwave method, while convenient, cannot replicate.
The preference for frying pappadoms is not just about taste; it’s a tribute to tradition, a nod to the countless generations before me who shared this snack around a communal table. Each pappadom, delicately fried to perfection, is a link to my heritage, a reminder of the warmth and love that food can convey. It’s a culinary practice that I cherish, one that connects me to my roots while allowing me to impart this love to friends and family.
As I navigate the complexities of adulthood, the crisp texture and savory taste of pappadoms serve as a comforting reminder of where I come from and the simple joys that life offers. Whether it’s through the quick zap in the microwave or the traditional dance in hot oil, my love for pappadoms remains a constant, a delightful bridge between the past and the present, the child within and the adult I’ve become.