Curry Day Two of Four
It is pleasing that there is a choice of decent Curry Sources in Helensburgh, Hector still thinks there is one Pretender too many. Hector was the first of the Evening Diners at Annaya’s Grill House (80-82 West Princes St., Helensburgh, G84 8XD). There was the now customary warm and hearty handshake from Zak, Mein Host. This, my third visit, I took a small table behind the door as one enters, an opperchancity to observe the proceedings from a different perspective.
The Who?
Entering just on 17.00, we were Five customers by 5.15. By 18.00 we numbered Fourteen, including a colleague and family. The Pre-theatre Menu was the attraction for some, Hector as ever would dine a la Carte. Zak brought a Complimentary Poppadom and a generous Bowl of Spiced Onion, as he did for all. This is how it should be.
On my last visit I had Achari in mind, tonight surely. However, further study of the Menu led me to consider the Sim Sim Chandani (£10.95). Described as somewhere between India and Persia this, Geographically, is the region of the planet which Hector has come to enthuse about most in the evolution of Curry-Heute. Zak described this dish as – Bangladesh meets Indonesia – clearly a contradiction of what is stated in the Menu. Sweet and Sour, Cuisine heading East, that does not necessarily suit The Hector Palate. The Machi Tawa (£11.85) was described as featuring Tamarind. It is a while since I have had an outstanding Fish Curry in Scotland, this is one for the future. Tonight, Zak, Hector will be having Achari Gosht (£9.50) with a Sprinkling of Dry Methi on top. Zak tried to interest me Fresh Spinach, alas, Methi is preferred by far.
Rice has been particularly enjoyed of late, so a Mushroom Pilau (£2.95) would accompany. The Interesting Vegetable sorted.
Having put away a Curry with Rice preceded by a Starter last night at the Akash, the Mixed Tandoori was added to the order.
The Mixed Tandoori arrived not long after the Spiced Onion was laid to rest, (Good Onions, Kenny)
One Small piece of Lamb, Two pieces of Chicken on-the-bone and Two Fair-sized pieces of Chicken Tikka. The Chicken on-the-bone was dispatched first. This is served as Chicken Chat in many establishments, too little to become excited. It was a similar story with the modest piece of Lamb Tikka. The Spicy Flavours were just emerging when it was gone. Two Pieces required here.
The Chicken Tikka, proper, was Suitably Succulent. Should Hector worry that he is enjoying this Cut currently. How long before I try Chicken Tikka Masala just for Old Time’s Sake?
A rest was required. Fifteen Minutes was suggested. This suited Zak and the Young Waitress who were now dealing with a rapidly filling restaurant. It’s Payday!
Zak waved his hand to savour the Waft of Dry Methi as he placed the Achari Gosht on the table.
I see what you mean about the methi.
The Methi Sprinkling could now become The Norm when Hector dines in the Mainstream, Quality Assured.
The Seasoning hit first, this is always a good sign, no Seasoning equals Bland. In addition to the Dry Methi, a Liberal dose of Sliced Green Chillies had also been arranged on top of the Achari Gosht. The Chillies did their job, the Crunchy Texture provided the much appreciated diversity, this was going down well.
The Onion-based Masala was suitably Thick. That Shorba is on the Menu shows an awareness of the differing styles of Masala by region. With a suitable quantity of Tender Lamb, this was a fully Flavoursome Curry. When one eats Achari one waits for the inevitable piece of Lime Rind to be discovered in the Mix. The Curry had Flavour but the Citrus was not – in the face. The Tang was subtle. Tamarind was coming to mind, but this Curry had something else. The Methi Sprinkling was also putting it firmly towards the Hector Palate, I would have to enquire.
Profligate, Moi?
Every Grain of Rice was consumed, the plate cleaned. Hector’s current Diet Regime sees the consumption of Fruit at Lunchtime and no Breakfast, of course. There’s little wonder that the evening meal is much anticipated. I’m a Great Big Ravenous old Hector.
The Bill
£20.35. £5.95 for the somewhat Modest Mixed Tandoori inflated the total.
The Aftermath
Zak explained that the Lime Pickle had been liquidised. He does not wish his customers to experience the horrible moment when one acquires a mouthful of Lime Rind. This is clever, but does erode the Lime Blast. However, I shall try this at home.
When did Hector last cook a Full Blown Curry Zuhause?