It was late in the evening when my husband, Gangadharam, returned home after a long day at work. For the past few weeks, our days had been quieter, with him mostly occupied at work.

“You packed dabbakaya pulihora today?” he asked with a wide smile, as I opened the door for him after the long day.

“Yes,” I replied, knowing it was one of his favourites.

The first time he tasted dabbakaya pulihora was years ago, when we visited my parent’s home as newlyweds for Sankranti. I still remember how he enjoyed it from the very first bite. It wasn’t sharp like lemon; the sourness was soft and layered, settling gently.

I smiled, knowing he must have enjoyed today’s lunch even on a busy day.

“But this isn’t the dabbakaya season,” he asked, a little confused.

Knowing his love for those flavours, this January, I tried making dabbakaya pulihora ready mix, so the authentic taste stays with us even after the season.

“Yes… this January…” I began, but he interrupted me, reliving the memories.

“The taste of dabbakaya pulihora reminds me of Attaya’s house—our first Sankranti… and our early days as newlyweds,” he said, with a quiet spark in his eyes, and continued speaking for a while.

I smiled, listening to him as I prepared dinner.

On days that keep us busy, the comfort and flavours of food bring back memories that feel like home.