8. Roasted corn

Roasted corn is seasonal, and that is part of the pleasure. When the cobs come in, sellers set wire grills on wheelbarrows and turn the corn until the kernels blister. It is smoky, a little chewy, and better than boiled corn. Pair it with coconut, or with African pear, the ube that stains your fingers purple, when both are out. A cob and a piece of coconut is the snack people buy on the way home. Do not expect butter. Salt is sometimes there. The fire is the seasoning.