Bread!

Were I a visitor to my blog, the first thing that would cross my mind after reading the title would be the musical group, Bread. Well, since that maybe the same thing that cross a real visitor's mind, I thought why not I put up one of their best hits. But mind you, this entry is not about the group, nor the song.

Bread, may be one of the most common food in the world. Yet, it differs in shape, taste, and even the smell, depending on the flour one use, and the mix that goes into it. The same would go with the preparation of the accompanying dishes. However, when the bread is still hot from the oven with its aroma still lingering, it ought to be good enough to be eaten alone. Still, some have to have at least a dish of gravy, without which, then they might as well not eat at all. Hmm...this reminds me of a story about Saidina Umar Al-Khatab r.a.

One day, he was visited by a man from a village, who brought along some 2 food containers, putting them in front of the Khalifah, and inviting the him to partake in the dish which was especially prepared for him by the man's wife. The Khalifah did not say anything, instead stared at the bread, and the gravy which was rich in oil. After a moment of silence, he said aloud to himself "You look so delicious and tempting. But if I were to eat you now, I fear I may be denied of a greater feast in the world hereafter". With that, he politely refused the food.

I should stress here that the circumstance above may well be different than one would imagine, but let's not get into it (tak bertauliah lagi!).

Earlier today I went to Giant Kelana Jaya for our monthly grocery needs. And as I was rummaging through the frozen food section, I came across several types and brands of instant bread, including Roti Paratha and Chapati. Now, normally I would not buy them except that, well, I am trying to work my way to a new client who makes Roti Lebanon, which essentially is pita bread. Well, at least to me, that's what I think it is though the owner - a real Lebanese - may vehemently say its not. But, let's not get into that too.

Anyway, since emak and I are trying to avoid eating rice at night as much as possible, we had the instant Chapati for dinner. I followed the instructions as best I could, except I did not use a pan, instead, just microwaved it. And soon, emak and I tucked into 2 very unchapati bread each; it was thin, small and lacked texture. I don't know about everyone else, but to me, the Sikh community makes the best chapati ever!

There was this premise - only half a shoplot size - in Bangsar, which made real good chapati. I do not know how they do it, but I used to stop over for a meal whenever I pass the area. Unfortunately, now I hardly step into KL, and last I heard, the business had closed down due to the death of a family member. Now, I don't know where to get a good chapati.

Hopefully, not able to get any now, might assist me to a greater feast in the hereafter, insyAllah. But oops! There's still the frozen Roti Paratha to be had.