The monthly trip to The Staggs, Musselburgh always concludes with Curry at The New Karahi Palace (51-53 Nelson Street, Tradeston, Glasgow, G5 8DZ). Last time they were out of Lamb by the time we returned West, Lamb Chops had to suffice, such terrible ordeals can occur. Mags rated the Chops version of her Aloo Gosht to be even better than her usual, Boneless version. This planted a thought in Hector’s Mind, it happens… Lamb Chops Acahri, never been tried at this venue. A Half Kilo would be the ultimate test. Chapattis to accompany.
As we entered, a familiar face lit up in recognition, Dr. Chris, former colleague of Dr. Stan and Dr. Rick. He was midway through his standard order – Half Kilo of Chicken Tikka Karahi. It looks tempting. His Lady ate otherwise.
Ayaz, Mein Host asked if we wished Our Usual. No, something different tonight. He returned with his pad and noted the New Order.
The Wait Began…
It was 21.00 when the order was placed. Ayaz took a Large Karahi upstairs. Takeaways were sent out, some collected. Chef Rashid was being kept busy. Another Large Karahi went upstairs. Normally when the upstairs is busy one hears the footsteps, all was quiet. Hector had to investigate. A Family of Four Adults with maybe four young children had just been catered for. Another Group sat at the window table, Two Chaps sat at the table at the top of the stairs. Only the Family had Food.
The Modest Salad and Raita made their customary appearance, Mags started to nibble, she ate the lot. Hector passed some of the time by photographing the Menu on the wall. Another Large Karahi went upstairs followed by the Sundries. No sign of our order.
By 21.50 I had told Ayaz and Rashid – We’re hungry. We were. Here is the problem of eating at peak times in Cafe-style establishments. At 22.00, the Lamb Chops Aloo and Lamb Chops Karahi arrived, with Two Half Chapattis – eh?
How good could this be?
Too Hot to Handle initially, the start was tentative. More Chapattis arrived, all was well.
Mags’ Portion of Lamb Chops Aloo had Four Chops. Mags was loving her choice.
I don’t know what they marinade the chops in, but this is the best place for Aloo Gosht.
Mags finished her entire Portion, Ayaz remarked that usually she takes some home. Not tonight.
Meanwhile across the table, Hector was in the full frenzy. A Half Kilo turned out to be Eight Chops shrouded in the Karahi Palace Masala. The Flavour of Pickle permeated the Masala, yet there was none of the tell-tale Rind that one has to avoid. This was The Best of Both Worlds. Eating Eight Lamb Chops, no Starter, no Problem. There was more Masala than I needed, another thought – Takeaway. There was enough Masala left to provide the Base for a home-cooked Curry.
The roles were reversed, Hector had this wrapped.
Marg phoned towards the conclusion, lift home arranged, but not yet.
The Bill
£25.00. Mags’ final remark – I enjoyed that very much.
The Aftermath
The Rendezvous with Marg was at The Laurieston. Alan B and Rob were in situ.
Alan – How many Lamb Chops did you have tonight?
He has the impression that all Hector eats is Lamb Chops, how wrong could he be? Tempting though…