My mother is very close to my heart, and so is her food. Many of my childhood memories are somehow connected to the delicious dishes my Mamoni cooked. Among them, hotchpotch and egg curry—or as we call them in Bangla, khichuri and dim bhuna—have always been my absolute favorites.
Whenever I think of a rainy monsoon day, the first thing that comes to my mind is a warm plate of khichuri. Even today, the memory feels comforting. The shimmering sound of onions sizzling on the stove, the beautiful aroma of polao rice and lentils cooking together, and the rich fragrance of mustard oil finished with a touch of ghee would fill the whole house. Somehow, everything felt warmer and happier on those days.
Over time, my mother improvised her khichuri with colorful vegetables. Without me even realizing it, she made it healthier, more nutritious, and even tastier. To make the meal extra special, she would serve it with crispy begun bhaja and her famous tamarind chutney that could instantly make anyone ask for another serving.
And then there was her egg curry—the star of the meal for me. I can still imagine the onions slowly frying in oil until they turned golden brown. A little turmeric, chili, and salt transformed them into a rich gravy. Then came the boiled eggs, and sometimes potatoes too, soaking up all the flavors. Simple ingredients, simple cooking, yet a taste that felt unforgettable.
Looking back, I realize that the magic was never only in the food. It was in the love with which my mother cooked, the comfort of being surrounded by family, and the feeling that everything was right in the world for a little while.
Today, I have tasted many wonderful foods in different places. Yet nothing has ever been able to replace my love for a plate of khichuri and dim bhuna made by my Mamoni. Some foods satisfy hunger, but some become memories. For me, this will always be one of them.
Gentle Reminder
Sometimes, the simplest meals become the most cherished memories because they are seasoned with love.
