Claire
Master Chef
A couple of days a week I read to two friends ... one has macular degeneration, the other is house-bound because of severe arthritis. We're now reading "Monsoon Diary" by Shoba Narayan. I was surprised that neither freind had really experienced Indian food/culture (they are both very well-travelled, well-educated people). Every month or two we have a "happy hour" together, and later this month the theme is going to be Indian food. I've already bought a half dozen jars of Pataks various sauces, pickles and chutneys. Both people are self-conscious about eating in front of others; and, yes, I have explained that this food is meant to be eaten with your fingers. Shoba's recipes are way too complicated for me, and my plan right now is to make a lot of different skewered meats with sauces. Then I will leave some basmati/golden rice and a curry type stew with them. Any finger-food ideas appreciated. I have a friend in Chicago looking for pappadams for me. Right now I'm looking for easy-to-eat adaptations of Indian food. Anyone out there have any ideas?