Roti
Updated: Jun 7, 2023
By Aditi Sandeep
How very mundane yet staple necessary,
Your moonlike countenance so extraordinary.
Constitution so simple of ingredients three,
Satisfies hunger with a dollop of golden ghee.
Quintessential desi flatbread unleavened,
The two square meals for all castes and seasons.
The perfect accompaniment to every curry,
You are my favourite so very yummy.
The feel of your face such familiar comfort,
The rounder the better with experienced effort.
Soft give as I tear, two layers separate,
Perfect medium to scoop every sabzi you make.
The daily ritual of combining the dough,
Flour measured out in practiced proportion.
A pinch of salt then water added from time to time.
I squish and knead until all together it binds.
And so slowly from a crumble to sticky flakes,
Continuous working one big mound creates.
In these moments of quiet meditation,
Daily bread, fruit of your dedication.
Left to rest undisturbed after invigorating exercise,
Pliant now, divided into round balls of small size.
One by one soldiers flatten, dipped in flour dredges,
The rolling pin sergeant to smooth out all the edges.
Rhythmic turning and spinning around,
Rotating in motion, flattening up and down.
When the perfect thickness is achieved,
Transferred to a hot griddle to heat receive.
When brown freckles start to blister the surface,
Flip it over and repeat the process.
Finally, its placed over an open flame,
Tummy rising until inflated it became.
Little white balloons puffed up with hot air,
How marvellous this magical feat of flair.
Tired now deflates and lies perfectly still,
Asleep in a box lined with the softest muslin.
Its dinner time and food is on the table,
Piping hot dishes dipped with spoons and ladle.
Empty bellies and hungry mouths await,
The round box with your circular face.
By Aditi Sandeep
Comments