The Easter Vacation and the two day stint at the Paisley Beer Festival means that Hector has not had Glasgow Curry for some time. Four weeks have passed since I last enjoyed one of my most Favourite Dishes. It was 16.00 when I entered the Karahi Palace (51 – 53 Nelson Street, Glasgow, G5 8DZ). One Customer sat waiting for his Order, Ayaz, Mein Host was behind the counter.
My Fellow Diner was presented with his Vegetable Curry and Bread. Ayaz, resplendent in apron, knew why I was here.
The Usual, please, one Chapatti (£0.70). I expected to see Ayaz take up position at the rear of the cooking area, instead I heard him relay the order- Lamb Karahi (£7.90) – and presumably my – Tweaks – Extra Methi, Extra Seasoning. It was only then I spotted Chef Rashid. Rashid is back! He has been away for some time, whilst the Second Chef has mastered Karahi Gosht, Rashid always prepares something – Extra Special.
My Curry was prepared in the time it took my neighbour to finish his. Qaiser had been out on delivery duty – You are on your own today? The Waitress brought a Modest Salad, then returned with a Sizzling Hot Karahi and Basket.
How Hot can a Curry be served? At what temperature does Vegetable Oil vaporise? I positioned the Karahi carefully, burny. I have been here before. The Sizzling went on for ages, how to eat Food this Hot? It’s astonishing what the palate can endure that the fingers cannot.
Topped with Fresh Coriander, Ginger Strips and Sliced Large Green Chillies, this was a most magnificent sight. The Lamb on-the-bone protruded through the mass of Vegetables, somewhere below was the Most Minimal of Masalas. How different was this from that served at Raja Tandoori (Paisley) earlier this week?
The Lamb was a mixture of Chops and Ribs, far too hot to tackle. Scooping some of the Tomato-rich Masala from the base of the Karahi, I knew I was in for another Treat. The Methi was there, the Flavours so Intense. Rashid had worked his Magic.
The Ginger and Chillies provided the Varied Texture I seek. Meat and Masala alone is never so exciting. Eventually I was able to tackle the Meat. Glorious!
Halfway through, the Karahi Gosht was still hotter than most venues would serve up at the start. The Chillies upped the Spice Level. Ah, the Methi. Stunning Curry!
The Bill
£8.60. Qaiser took the Cash.
Was it Spicy?
Lots of Chillies on top. Rashid is – The Man!