T’is the season of taking The Mother of Hector out for lunch. Lasani Grill (223-225 Allison street, Glasgow, G42 8RU) has been The Discovery of 2014, with its better than average Café Ambience, a suitable venue for this Sunday Afternoon. The Kilo of White Karahi was arranged with Khalid previously, he asked that we come at 15.00 in order to allow preparation time. And I thought this could be cooked the day before.
Saeed greeted us as we took our seats. Introductions were made – Marg, Mother, Saeed. The White Karahi was re-confirmed along with Three Chapattis and a portion of Plain Boiled Basamti for Mother. Given that we were early, and three would be sharing One Kilo on-the-bone, Hector considered a Starter to share to be in order. The Reshmi Kebab came as a Portion of Four kebabs, more than enough to share. With the Chicken reportedly done in a Citrus and Yoghurt Marinade, a new experience for us all.
A Modest Salad with Dips was brought first, the Reshmi Kebab arrived after the majority of the Salad had been cleared. It appears we were hungry. The Four Kebabs were halved, Eight Pieces, a Feast. Marg and Mother settled for a Half each, Hector ate Three Halves, Takeaway. No need to risk spoiling The Main Event. Marg loved the Spicy-Coriander Kick from the Kebab. As Chicken goes, this was quite satisfying. I would have this again but maybe would prefer it as part of a Mixed Combo. Now who does a Splendid Mixed Combo?
We were permitted a small gap in the proceedings before Saeed brought the White Karahi. No sign of Khalid. This Kilo looked more substantial than what has been served up in recent weeks as part of a Two Kilo Order. We waded in. The Boiled Rice was enough for Two, The Mother would only manage less than half of this. Marg and Hector stuck to the Chapattis, authentic eating. I have had better Chapattis, these were on the Thin side. Three proved to be more than enough.
I had advised Mother that this – Curry – would be unlike any other she had experienced. No Red Substances are harmed in the creation of this Dish. This was simply Black and White Pepper, Salt and Green Chillies. The Seasoning was right on the limits of tolerance – Excellent. The Flavours flooded out. Marg too was experiencing this for the first time though was familiar with the Lamb Karahi as served at the much-missed Khyber. This suited her, not over-spiced. Marg sifted out the Boneless pieces of Lamb for The Mother. The Quality of the Lamb both on-the-bone and off was Outstanding. The plates were topped up, again, and again. The Kilo was a good judgement call. The Three of us were fed.
Saeed was ever attentive. He informed us that Khalid had a Surprise for us. Assuming it was Dessert we asked for another gap, granted. Saeed is the Dessert Expert having worked across the road in the Sweet Centre for some years. Ras Malai, Paneer soaked in Cream, was well received. Most refreshing on the Palate. We did not see Khalid today.
The Bill
£33.65. There are few venues where three can dine, enjoying this level of outstanding food at this price.
The Aftermath
Regular readers will know that Lasani Grill is not the only Source of White Karahi. The Friends of Hector were invited to a Chef’s Home some weeks back for the same, and more. Saeed and Khalid would be aware of this. Eggshells.
I see the lease on Lasani Grill is up for sale?
Saeed confirmed this and offered reasons which I do not need to print. Suffice to say, The Discovery of 2014 may change hands soon. Anyone wishing to share a White Karahi in the near future, get in touch.
Saeed mentioned a highly critical comment by a Curryspondent in this Blog. As he serves the majority of the customers he was at a loss as to who the people were who claimed to have had such poor service. Hector cannot prove the veracity of all comments. However, I can spot most mischievous ones which is why The Weans do not get past the filter stage.