[photo: Bittermelon. Bulacan, Philippines, February 2007]
in my language, this is called ampalaya
it's a curiousity that this vegetable was ever
considered for food for it
leaves a bitter taste in your mouth
that can only be made palatable
by soaking it in salt and lots of it
yet for all its bitterness
this remains a family favorite
and for my brother, who is a chef,
his comfort food
one mother used to cook for him
when she sensed
he needed cheering
bitterness and cheer
Who knew?
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