The Hungry Hopper
It was a particularly lackluster day further propounded by my indolence (hinging on incredulity dare I say) to cross the 100000kms between my bed and the kitchen. Okay, mea culpa. That was a tad too exaggerated. But one can certainly be forgiven for trying to highlight one’s point, no? So whilst I lay contemplating how to gear up for this battle, my tummy was raging another battle altogether. Needless to say, I decided it would be gross injustice to get in the way of indulging my friend the belly. Lethargy off you go! Compromise isn’t always as bad and ergo! I arrived upon the perfect solution of amicably settling the argument between indolence and hunger. As I proudly patted myself, I made my way to this food joint called ‘Naga Lota’ (which I have often crossed on my daily sojourns but never completely surrendered to exploring it though it seldom failed to pique my curiosity). Situated enticingly along the Duncan Basti (Dimapur) stretch, I finally succumbed and as I made my entry (it was a little after 11:00 AM and the regular crowd was yet to make their appearance as I later learnt), the faint aroma of my all-time favourite Naga Food ingredients (please do take note that I’m speaking in plural since I clearly cannot have just one single favourite; Travesty of justice is something I will not endorse more specifically when it comes to food).
I need to be honest here. I was beyond the throes of starvation that all strength to scan the menu so delicately spelt out on the whiteboard was already an endeavour defeated. I wish I had spent a minute at least rummaging across the menu or else I wouldn’t have missed out the pork intestines. Anyhow, not one to cry over spilt milk, I proceeded to place my order of vegetable thali and smoked pork in axone. I know pretty regular affair for most of us. But the aroma that had invaded my nostrils earlier convinced me that this experience might be a little beyond the generic taste which of course I have no qualms about either. Side note- To kill time as my lovely assortment of lunch was being readied, I might have finger drummed, on the table, the entire tune to some unrecognizable song in the background much to the consternation of the person behind the counter I’m afraid. Anyhow, moving on, the food arrived and my eyes are treated to an Oscar worthy sight of beautifully shaped pork pieces nestled in a thick gravy of axone glistening and begging to be consumed. Next thing I did? I shut off this world, table manners et al, and surrendered completely to the feast before me. And I wasn’t disappointed. The smoked pork in its succulence was wonderfully merged with the pungency of the traditional soya beans and the side dishes of seasonal vegetables and chutney did an excellent job of complementing the entire meal.
I tell you, good, simple food cooked with care and from the heart makes the eating experience an unforgettable journey that touches every fiber of your being. Food has that effect on me. It overwhelms, it captivates, it elevates. I can unabashedly say that Naga Lota evoked those emotions out of me and I have been a regular visitor ever since which I’m sure will continue until they get fed up of seeing my face or worse still, shut down business (god forbid!).
Damage to my pocket? Rs. 220. Feather light really.
Until the next food expedition… Tally-ho!
thehungryhopper@gmail.com
