#33 Saunf

#33 Saunf
Originally uploaded by Apurva Pangam

For the uninitiated , saunf or fennel seeds are the thin little ridged green grain-like thing that desis love to chew on after hearty meals (often times in alarmingly large quantities, almost constituting a large after-meal) . While desis swear by its “mouth freshening” qualities (altoids, be gone!), it also gives them an opportunity to weild their toothpicks to achieve instant dental pleasure (otherwise achieved by the “hygiene no bar – whatever it takes” rule. hint: it grows on your fingers ).

Just like desis themselves, saunf comes in a variety of assortments ranging from minty to colorful to extra burnt (and a combination thereof). While there’s no compelling evidence to suggest a strong preference in saunf flavor, its presence in any of its shape or form, pretty much completes a desi dining out experience.In short, it defines the correct restaurant exit criteria for a desi.

If you ever decide to invite a desi over for a meal, be prepared to offer at least a large heap of saunf in a full size dinner plate, because desis have a tendency of grabbing a large fistful (two, in some cases) of the digestive goodness. And precisely for the same reason, don’t bother with a serving spoon. If you plan on filling up your own coat pockets at the next desi restaurant you visit, make sure to check the saunf’s ammonia content before ingesting this sinful breath freshner.