I Like Food*

Written July 6, 2008

I've gained a reputation in this camp as the human garbage disposal, eating what others can't finish or don't want. And it's not just the need for energy after IDing plants for a whole morning: the food is really good.

Noggi, our resident chef, has been praised by veteran and new-comer alike as someone who can do a lot with a few resources. Whether it's stew or spaghetti, she adds flavor and Mongolian flair to every dish.

Before coming, I was a bit worried about the meat-maniac Mongolians I had heard of. Many of you know I was happily vegetarian before applying for this trip. But so far I've been greatly pleased-- meat is never really the centerpiece of any meal. Dumplings may be stuffed with mutton, stew may have beef broth, or goat may mis with veggies for stir fry. But you won't find a NY Steak style meal here.

Until the Mongolians celebrate, that is. The Mongolians, ironically, pulled out all the stops on Friday to help in celebrating the 4th of July. The herder down the valley sold a wonderful sheep to us, which was promptly slaughtered 30 minutes later. Gutted and cleaned, the meat went into a huge milk can filled with hot stones. An hour later, and still a bit chewy, the sheep reemerged ready to eat along side similarly steamed potatoes and carrots. Horhag (sp?), as the meal is called, washed itself down with beer and sangria. Oh to spend the 4th in Mongolia!

Despite my new found penchant for Mongol cuisine, I was glad the cook took a break today (Sunday). The girls served up burritos for lunch and fish and chips with (wild) rhubarb cobbler for dinner. As refreshing a change as it was, the ice-tea alongside the meals struck em the most. It was cold. Mongolians like everything hot to drink (tea, milk-tea, more tea, etc.). I'm looking forward to lemonade next time a hot day rolls around state-side!