The Spicy Lesson

Dimpy impala and Riya zebra were best friends and classmates.

- Sudha Vijay

The moment the lunch bell rang, they rushed to their bench in the playground. Lunchtime was their happy hour— a mix of gossip, giggles and their favourite guessing game: What’s in my tiffin?

Dimpy grinned, “Can you guess what I have brought for lunch?”

Riya said, “You have to give me some hints first.”

Dimpy said, “My meal is prepared from the all-rounder of vegetables. These vegetables originated in the Andes mountains of South America, in the region of modern-day southern Peru and northwestern Bolivia.”

Riya burst out laughing, “Well, I know many cricket all-rounders but an all-rounder vegetable?”

Dimpy said, “See! I have made it very easy for you.”

“I know! The vegetable is potato,” Riya said. “One can prepare so many dishes with them, but I think you brought your favourite aloo paratha for lunch.”

Dimpy replied, “Correct! Now your turn.”

“Mine’s Indian, cooked as a quick breakfast, and considered healthy.”

Dimpy pouted. “Too many options. More hints.”

“It’s yellow,” Riya grinned.

“Poha!” Dimpy guessed.

“Bingo! Right again!” “What a lovely flavour! I am so hungry,” said Riya, taking a spoonful of poha.

“Yummy!” said Dimpy, taking a bite of her paratha.