Underground Kebab Economy Booms as Gasoline Falters

With gas stations shuttered and inflation soaring, Tehran's underground kebab economy has emerged as the most stable currency in the region. One skewer of lamb now equals two liters of petrol or three arguments with your uncle. Black market vendors have set up "grill points" on rooftops and alleyways, offering exchange rates that rival official banks. "We used to cook for taste," said veteran kebabist Armin, "now we cook for freedom." Kebab-based contracts are being written for rental leases, bus rides, and wedding deposits. A recent marriage ceremony featured a dowry of grilled tomatoes and saffron rice with "trading privileges." Economists predict kebab-based GDP could surpass the rial by next quarter. The government issued a statement: "Food is not a currency," which the people of Tehran interpreted as "Kebab is definitely the new dollar." SOURCE: http://bohiney.com