"When you think about your favorite foods, roast tongue probably is not on the list. But for some of us — including UND President Robert Kelley — tongue not only is on the list, it’s close to the top.

Many people, include many American Indians, are not fond of tongue, no matter how it is fixed. So, I usually take opportunities such as these RAIN dinners to expand their knowledge and surprise their taste buds by encouraging them to taste roast tongue.

Incidentally, tongue is one of the tenderest and juiciest cuts of beef — when it’s cooked right, I should add. That does make a difference.

So when I saw President Kelley standing in line at the buffet, I couldn’t resist telling him to try the roast tongue. “Oh, I love tongue,” he replied. “My mother fixed it with sour cream and horseradish.”

I was thunderstruck — and I couldn’t think of anything to say in response. My usual teasing wouldn’t work. I’ve met only a few people who say they love to eat tongue, and nearly all of them are elders or others back on the reservations.

As I walked back to my table, a little chagrined, I thought about other foods that I like but many others do not.

I sat down at our table, turned to my sister and told her about Kelley. She laughed and wondered if he liked tripe soup, too."

Get the Story:
COLUMNIST DORREEN YELLOW BIRD: Written with (roast) tongue in cheek (The Grand Forks Herald 12/20)

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