The travels in July continue. Hector is en route to Sheffield, by taking an early morning train to Manchester, there was enough time to stop off for Lunch at Kabana (22 Back Turner St., Northern Quarter, Manchester M4 1LQ England). There was a rendezvous with Jonathan before Noon, Hector was the first customer of the new week arriving at exactly 11.30. Rizwan extended his usual warm greeting.
A glance at The Board was enough to confirm the availability of Lamb Karahi (£4.80) with Rice (£1.50). I predicted Jonathan would order Keema Potatoes (£4.80). With introductions out of the way this was proved correct, two Chapattis (£0.70) would accompany the Keema.
Normally at Kabana, one orders at the counter, pay, then take your own plate to the table. Today there was table service. Rizwan even brought over the bowls of Chopped Green Chillies, Chopped Ginger and Fresh Coriander. As the photo shows, Copious Toppings were applied. I had watched Rizwan closely pile the Lamb on top of the Rice. One Sucky Bone even made its way to the plate, proof that this Karahi Gosht was on-the bone. The portion of Rice was generous too, without being Excessive. This would be devoured, not a grain wasted.
The Masala quickly soaked into the Rice leaving a decent level of moistness on top and within. There was so much Meat, easily in double figures, many pieces having to be halved. The Lamb was amazingly tasty having had time in the Masala to absorb the Spices. The Curry at Kabana may be presented in an instant, careful preparation has been applied previously.
The Chillies built up the Spice Level, the Fresh Coriander upped the Overall Level of Flavour. The Seasoning was spot on. With everything – Perfect – all that was left was to savour the moment.
Jonathan had been given a bowl of Keema Potatoes, there was no point decanting. The Chapattis were Large, Substantial, in fact Rotis. Jonathan made short work of his meal. As ever I asked for a quote:
Do I need to say anything? And the potatoes are so soft.
Once, at Hector’s House, I served Potatoes which simply would not cook.
Very tasty, with just the right level of kick for the morning.
Observing that I was still eating and Jonathan was finished, Rizwan brought over a Soupçon of Chicken Spinach for Jonathan to sample. This also helped take care of his remaining Bread. Jonathan remarked about eating Chicken Curry in my presence. I reminded him that he used to order – Chicken Tawa – at The Village (Glasgow). I rest my case.
The Bill
£6.30 for Hector, £6.20 for Jonathan.
The Aftermath
And so to Sheffield, there should be no need to eat again today, unless someone suggests….