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| Banana Leaf Rice |
My endocrinologist started me on GLP-1 (Liraglutide) more than a decade ago, and one of the most noticeable side effects I experienced was a sudden lack of appetite and a muted sense of taste. Being a big fan of delicious food, describing my life then as miserable would be an understatement. It was so bad that I would sometimes force myself to eat something just because I could feel hypoglycemia setting in. Eating became less about flavor and aroma and more about texture and consistency; I'd liken it to eating varying types of cardboard. While the medication had a remarkable effect on my blood glucose control, it also markedly changed my overall physique. Friends would ask what I was doing to lose weight, and I would tell them earnestly that I wouldn't wish what I was experiencing on my worst enemy. This went on for several months.
I can still remember that fateful day when a friend invited me to dinner at an Indian banana leaf restaurant. If you haven't had the pleasure of dining in one of these places, let me paint you a picture: fresh banana leaves are placed on the tables like mats. Steaming, freshly cooked rice is heaped in front of you (typically basmati, though I would always ask for parboiled rice if they had it), and various curries are placed around the rice along with side dishes like pickles, chutneys, sautéed vegetables, and an assortment of yogurt-based dishes. You eat with your bare right hand, sipping a refreshing lassi every now and then.
As I started eating, I was amazed to find that I was actually tasting the food. Either the side effects of the medication had finally worn off, or the food was just that flavorful. Whatever the reason, I nearly cried from relief, grateful that I was finally able to enjoy eating again. In particular, I remember these delicious curd chilies my friend ordered, which weren't even on the menu. I loved their crunchy, spicy, salty, and tangy flavor, which complemented the curry and rice combo perfectly.
That is why I have such a soft spot for banana-leaf-style Indian restaurants. It was introduced to me at a crucial juncture in my life when I had almost lost all pleasure in food, and it brought excitement back to an otherwise dull existence. I am so happy that is all behind me now.
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