11/22/09
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COMFORT FOOD
India’s pongal
WHAT IT IS
Rice and moong dal (split yellow lentils) cooked in a large pot until they’re soft. It can be made sweet or savory
HISTORY
Americans give their babies cereal as their first solid food; in India, that first taste is pongal. The dish reappears when someone is sick because its bland ingredients and subtle flavor are soothing. People also eat pongal before taking a long trip because it’s filling and comforting. Plus, it’s affordable for even the poorest India residents.
GET IT AT
Udupi Palace (2543 W Devon Ave, 773-338-2152) for $9.95 for pongal with avail, a vegetable curry