It blooms in the steam, white and velvety. What makes it unique is its shape and taste. True culinary art is created in the heart. Ajinomoto is never sprinkled for a harmful delight. The old purity prevails in the batter of rice, black gram, fenugreek, and salt, challenging time. The idli brings a hamlet into the limelight. Like a ballad, its recipe and cuisine have been passed down. I goggle at it before gobbling. No gripe. Eupeptic. My fatigue does vanish in the relish. It’s not the painted wall, but the warm air and the delicious dish that linger in my soul. First published in The Literary Hatchet (issue #30) *Ramassery idli is a tasty rice cake made (by steaming) in Ramassery, a hamlet in Palakkad, Kerala.