Longing for Imampasands, Naduchalais and Alphonsas

If you are not from Madras (I Insisit on Madras, Chennai has no pizzazz), then you are forgiven for not knowing that Imampasands, Naduchalais and Alphonsas are types of Mangoes sold in Madras.

Those were the days. Beginning April and till the end of June, the city wore a festive look, thanks to the Mango stalls. Mangoes were manna from heaven for entire South India: a veritable treat for kids enjoying their summer vacation, a quick snack for all ages, a simple no-nonsense but rich dessert for all guests. I knew of many kids in school who will open their lunch boxes to find mango slices as side dishes. They performed many roles in the culinary spectrum. To be able to bite into a juicy, chilled, whole mango and be able to enjoy the yellow, supple delicacy........ ah, heaven!

Paavana and I always feel cheated when we buy mangoes here (Wisconsin). They look rich, smell divine and implore us to buy them. The last time this happened was yesterday. Since Paavana is out of town, I just bought one of these impish culinary teasers. Alas, what a letdown. Inspite of the rich color, texture and the odour, the taste was a big letdown. Even the lowliest Rumani of Madras would have tasted infinitely more supreme.