Me:
What is your essential food/item that made it on top of your quarantine list?
Deepti:
I actually have a couple of items on my grocery list (all from the Indian store, haha) - Maggi instant noodles, mango pickle, and this snack called aloo bhujia. Let me send you pictures for all three of them!
Me:
Oh this is exciting. I really like the packaging on aloo bhujia. Did you have this snack growing up?
Deepti:
I did have this snack growing up! I would say it's definitely more of a comfort food. And yes, it's very popular in India! You should be able to find it in any Indian grocery store in the US. Haldiram's makes a lot of other snacks too, but the aloo bhujia is definitely one of the best things they make. It's super yummy and irresistible. I'm surprised I managed to make it last as long as I did (I thought I would finish it in 3-4 days, but it lasted almost 2 weeks!).
Me:
Ohhh I can’t wait to be able to go to Indian grocery and find this.
I want to ask more about snacks lol. What is your favorite snacks?
Deepti:
Oh man. I have so many favorite snacks. One of the things I miss the most from home is how many savory snacks we have in India. From the Indian snacks, my favorites are aloo bhujia, ribbon pakodas, jackfruit chips, vada pav, pani puri, bhel puri, medu vada and so many others! Some of my favorite snacks after coming to the US are a lot of things from Trader Joe's, haha. I love their Omega trek mix, the sweet plantain chips, white cheddar puffs, salt and pepper potato chips, and the orange cranberry scones (they are to die for!).
Me:
Wow wow. I can only imagine the Jackfruit chips and it sounds good. The others I have to find it at the store and try!
Are you cooking more food at home? I always find it Indian food is very elaborate and takes long time. Is there any quick food to make for suggestion?
Deepti:
I've always liked cooking, but yes, I think I'm cooking a bit more than I used to now. There's definitely a lot of elaborate Indian food, but the base of a lot of recipes is similar. Once you've gotten more familiar with the flavors and spices, I think it gets easier. I would recommend trying to make either adai or pesarattu. They are lentil and rice based savory crepes that are made in South India. You should be able to find a recipe online and find all the ingredients in an Indian store. They're pretty simple to make too. I was teaching my American roommate how to make them the other day!
Me:
I just google them! They look delicious.
Thank you so much Deepti!!! It was truly delicious conversation ;)
I’m attaching some of Deepti’s artworks. They are uplifting and always brings me joy!
You can follow her at instagram @deeptisunder
———————
Project Note:
The idea of “ My friend’s quarantine shopping list” started when I was peeking at people’s shopping baskets during the COVID-19. What are their essentials? Is there a one thing they can’t live without? I was curious about my friend’s. Everyone’s list was unique and I enjoy making the items and talking about them with my friends. I hope this brighten your day and maybe those items will make it to your next shopping list :) Have a nice staying home day!