The Center of the Universe

A few weeks ago we went to the center of the universe. A co-worker invited a group of us there – to his family home in Kurdimier. 

To most (well everyone actually), Kurdimier is far from Eden. It is hot, flat, dry, treeless, and buzzing with mosquito in the summer. But to our friend, who shamelessly brags about his home town, it is most certainly the best place in all of Azerbaijan.

We found ourselves in a garden…fresh tandir bread, homemade butter and cheese and tea, always lots of samovar tea. I ate pomegranates that grew from the trees in the yard, and grapes from the trellis above and watched people cook who knew what they were doing. 

It’s always interesting to have veterinarians together preparing and cooking meat on the grill. Being a thrifty sort, Azerbaijanis  don’t like to waste anything. I passed on the unidentifiable objects on the grill, but the eggplant stuffed with a little sheep fat was quite nice. 

My new favorite food is “soldiers in uniform” - whole potatoes surrounded by charcoal, cooked in the ground.  They were a banquet on their own, needing no accompaniment. With a couple of these in my pocket I think I could do anything! These people know how to cook and serve up the food! 

Paul enjoyed the view from the head of the table... 

...and Ruby loved playing volleyball! 

The next day I overheard our friend from Kurdimier say that he would no longer need to speak about the splendors of his village – because now everyone else will!! Having experienced the warmth and hospitality of his home and family, we wholeheartedly agree!