There are Curry Houses in Casablanca, just not around the corner from Hector and Marg’s Apartment at Casa Porto, later, hopefully. This is our first full day in the Metropolis. Our Thirteenth Floor Apartment – Sophia – has a well stocked kitchen, as if the owner knew the requirements of the present occupant. Turmeric, Coriander Seeds, Chilli Powder, Cumin Seeds, Cinnamon Stick, Garlic Pickle Paste, Curry Paste, Vegetable Oil…. it was written.
As we left the Medina this afternoon there was a brief financial transaction, Two Large Potatoes, One Khadu, Cilantro (Hector is abroad and so used – Foreign-speak – for Fresh Coriander). Tomato Puree was bought in our local store.
The Bill – 50p.
Onions and Tomatoes I had bought for Breakfast already. Here we go.
Following the Classic Curry Recipe a Masala was put together, the sliced Khadu would cook in this, no chance was taken with the Potatoes. Peeled then cubed, the Potatoes were boiled separately.
Our Guest for the evening was expected but had not arrived by sunset. Marg and Hector had to eat.
A Vegetable Curry
Rarely has Marg enthused so much about a Hector Curry. Served without Bread or Rice this was the full blown assault on the palate. The Seasoning and Spice level were exactly how one would hope. The Masala was Gloopilly-Thick. The Potatoes had been cooked through, it was a matter of stirring them into the Masala then topping with the Herbs. This looked like Curry, it most certainly was.
Marg – The Potatoes were lovely and fresh, a good texture, they weren’t crumbling. The Khadu wasn’t mushy, the sauce was very rich.
Hassan arrived just after 23.00. One is still learning about Moroccan customs. He brought his friend Mustafa who had very little English. From the moment Hassan entered the apartment he could sense the aroma of Curry. Strange how people walk in to Hector’s House and remark on this.
Hassan was the owner of Cafe Salma, having established one of Glasgow’s top Curry Houses, he walked away. Tomorrow we shall visit his current entrepreneurial activities. A Restaurant will not be part of this.
Meanwhile, Mustafa had his first taste of Planet Earth’s Greatest Food. It disappeared.
Hassan revealed that – Hassan – was his Glasgow Moniker.
Ladies and Gentlemen, I introduce – Mr. Lahcen Melloul.
