Gordon Ramsay has nothing on the ladies of Menji Fonjumata . Some female volunteers and I have been invited to help the village women prepare dinner in the smokehouse, and it is reality show material. The woman in charge is on a serious deadline and if our technique or speed don’t meet her expectations, we’ll be kicked out. I’ve always had a competitive streak, and I’m determined to measure up.
The knives are as dull as the potatoes are substantial, and it’s tricky work. A potato peeler is a luxury here and I vow to bring back a suitcase full of them on my next trip after seeing how hard these women work.
Thanks to the Helix rides and this knife, I’m getting blisters on top of blisters, and the smoke is burning my eyes, but I refuse to give up…there’s no way I’m going to be banished from this kitchen.
The food in the village is good, mainly rice, beans, potatoes—basically, whatever is available—and tonight we’re getting chicken as an added treat. They’re killed, gutted an plucked in minutes, then seared over an open fire. It’s all served with a great sauce and although the food is simple, it’s delicious.
We finish off our meal with some palm wine, fermented from the sap of a palm tree. It has hallucinogenic properties, similar to absinthe, and is extremely potent. Step aside whiskey—I’ve found a new friend.
I can’t stop giggling at this one. Love your competitiveness (that’s a word right?) and the palm wine. Will you be able to make your own back home? ;o)
You are seriously too funny!!! I am afraid of potato peelers because I loose skin off of my knuckles every time I use one so you can have mine. I got it as a gift and never use it. Hope you didn’t get banished from the kitchen either. Enjoy the wine you deserve it.