Somehow we managed to spend an entire afternoon on North Parade, such is the virtual explosion of new venues. The Peacock sells Real Ale and Indian Snacks, the latter are free to Bradford City Fans on Match Days, I’m told. The Rickmeister’s Itinerary had the Sheesh Mahal (6 St. Thomas’ Rd, Bradford, BD1 2RW) written, and so it would be.
Arriving @20.00, Hector was aware that this was a first evening visit in daylight. For years I stood at Malham Cove at this time of year looking towards Bradford, now I’m here; maximising Curry intake is the name of the game.
Poppadoms, Dips and a Tired Salad were on the table in an instant. The Poppadoms were Crisp, the Dips – Spicy. It was agreed that Starters were happening. Dr. Stan and Ricky would share Seekh Kebab (£2.70) and Shami Kebab (£2.20). Stewart chose the more mundane Onion Bhaji (£1.50). This was not for The Hector. Having had Fish Karahi for Brunch at Karachi, it was time for Meat. Lamb Chops (£4.90) would suffice.
Our Waiter told me what I was having – Lamb on-the-bone with Methi (£9.50). Hector is known by more staff members than was realised. For Dr. Stan, a Keema Balti (£8.95), for Ricky, a Nawabe Balti (£8.95) whatever that is. The Menu described Ricky’s choice as – Chicken Mushroom Balti. Stewart asked for Chicken Daal (£9.45). From the choice of Inclusive – Rice, Naan or Chapattis, Stewart and Hector would have Chapattis, the Residents of Holden Towers opted for Naan.
Sadaqat passed us by, he was busy taking care of a large group at the window seats. Omar, the Son of Taj, appeared for his ritual photo.
I want to see Taj – said Ricky who was keen to relate the tale of his Shahi Kofta at the International last night. The Best Curry he has had, and this was not at the Sheesh Mahal!
I have never wanted to see Taj on this topic before.
Taj, Mein Host, was not here this evening.
The dog’s bollocks – was how Stewart described his Onion Bhaji.
The Shami Kebab and Seekh Kebab were separated, the Shami disappeared as soon as the photos were taken.
I enjoyed them both – said Dr. Stan.
The Seekh was too dry, the Shami was excellent – said Ricky.
Five Thin Lamb Chops were presented to Hector on an Metal Platter. Onions lay beneath the Chops. The Spice Marinade was Wonderful. A Baby screaming at the adjacent table was the only thing to spoil the moment.
A Basket with Naans was placed on the table. No Chapattis? Ah, these were buried under the Naans. A Mass of Bread, all inclusive, this is how it should be.
Lamb on-the-bone with Methi
My third Curry of this Trip, I was still waiting to taste that which defines The Bradford Curry. What arrived did not look much, it’s astonishing how much there is in such a Modest looking Dish. The Lamb was both Ribs and a cut with knob-like bones. The Lamb was Soft with some pieces approaching Pulp. The Masala was so Minimal it was almost not there. This sets the Standard, how I seek my Curry, the antithesis of – Soup. Sadly, I was about to pull out pieces of Red Capsicum. I should have asked for these to be withheld.
From the first scoop of Meat with a Chapatti, The Bradford Blast came across; so Rich, the Methi providing the Herb Flavour that makes Bradford Curry so identifiable. The Spice Level was spot-on, the Seasoning – Perfect. Stunning Curry!
Nawabe Balti
Ricky’s verdict on the Nawabe Balti was one of evolution.
It were alright – which is Ricky speak for there was nothing to criticise.
I enjoyed it; everything is blown into perspective by yesterday.
Once we were all finished:
I enjoyed it almost as much as last night.
Keema Balti
Dr. Stan was not playing tonight. There was no comment forthcoming on his Keema Balti. If the customary Dr. Stan – Mmmmm – was uttered, Hector was too busy to hear or note the moment.
In a scene reminiscent from Father Ted, Ricky goaded the Good Doctor who appeared to be struggling. Ricky finished off the Keema Balti.
Nothing special – was his observation. So it goes.
Chicken Daal
Stewart, sitting opposite, was most enthusiastic about his Chicken Daal.
That was absolutely excellent.
Compared to the Ilkley sauce and cream which he is used to:
That was one of the most enjoyable curries I’ve ever had.
He should get out more, oh, we’re not finished.
Thick and dry, Lentil rich. It was superb, a flavour far more complex than Chicken and Lentil. I would sit here now and have another one.
I think he enjoyed it.
This left the matter of The Bill and Ricky’s continuing claim that the Sheesh Mahal gives CAMRA discount.
The Bill
£48.15. Complete Bollocks – said The Man from Bradford. Note the names of the Dishes do not necessarily match what we ordered.
The Aftermath
Ricky took our cash and went up to the counter. He wouldn’t claim a CAMRA discount then use this to subsidise his own meal, would he?