Dartbeat Investigates: New KAF Goodies
Standing in the KAF line at 9:57 a.m. on Monday morning, I noticed the trendily redesigned menu brimming with new editions. At the time, I did not have a strong reaction (I was also trying to grab an iced tea and yogurt to get to 10s acceptably late). However, I do not cope well with change. For the past few terms, I have been rocked by seemingly incoherent additions and subtractions to the KAF offerings. It all started with the 8 p.m. closing time that decimated my late-night productivity, and then sandwiches disappeared, then new pastries showed up on the counter (mmm black bean pie), then sandwiches came BACK and now there are even more savory options. What am I supposed to believe anymore? Can I trust that a new beloved library snack will be available from one term to the next? I do not have all the answers, but I can advise you, dedicated KAF customers, on the new offerings so that you can allocate your remaining DBA wisely.
Flaxseed Roll: I find this option more delightful and interesting than the regular KAF rolls. The seeds provide texture and flavor to make the roll appropriate to eat on its own or with one of the spread options. Added benefit: less flaky and floury than the white rolls so no napkins required.
Red Lentil Sweet Potato Hummus: Although orange is my favorite color, I do not generally like sweet potatoes. However, this hummus was lightly sweet and filling. I would have appreciated a bit more spice. Also, the texture was a bit too heavy.
Ginger and Miso Black Rice: I tend to prefer my rice to be mushy and one color (I do not like that healthy, crunchy brown stuff). I have also received conflicting reviews on the flavor combination, but it seems like the most exotic option in the refrigerator case.
Baked Tofu: I have received a number of opinions on this meal option, mostly negative — the tofu seems to experience salty vs. sweet identity confusion. I cannot say I’m surprised. Then again, the texture of tofu freaks me out.
Southwestern Chicken Salad: I have heard all good things.
Mediterranean Lentils: When I saw lentils I was pretty excited because I like Middle Eastern and curry dishes that feature the strange bean-like, seed-like food product. However, this version includes more European Mediterranean ingredients. If you like feta cheese and tomatoes this could be up your alley.
Soba Noodle Salad: TOO MANY CARROTS. The soba noodles were good, the peppers were nice and the Asian-style dressing was delicious. However, I would not eat the soba noodle salad as a meal replacement, but it’s certainly a nice mid-morning or late-afternoon snack. Additionally, the carrots were simply overwhelming.