Hector is in Musselburgh, on a Wednesday, something must be cooking. What’s more, Dr. Stan is in tow. We have been making plans with Nigel at The Staggs for a Big Birthday this weekend, and no, it is not Ron King’s!
Nigel, Mein Host at the Staggs, has recommended the Nepalese Restaurant just across the street and so the Gurkha Bar & Restaurant (96 N High St, Musselburgh EH21 6AS) it was for dinner this evening. Calling themselves a – Bar – is one way of stating that they sell a full range of Drinks. We were here for The Curry.
Between Belgium and Huddersfield, Hector has not had particularly good things to write about Nepalese Cuisine. There was a determination to avoid – Soup.
Two halves of a Poppadoms and some Different Dips were brought before we had ordered. This is how it should be.
By the time we had dismissed the – No chances – it was the Usual Dishes to choose from. Most Lamb Dishes were priced at £8.95 – Methi, Bhuna or Karahi. Achari Lamb (£9.55) was 60p more and listed in the Gurkha Specials. This was Dr. Stan’s choice along with a Tandoori Paratha (£2.50) Also in the Specials was Bhuteko Khasi (Medium) – Tender pieces of lamb cooked with onion, garlic, green chilli and spring onion. The ingredients should avoid a needless conversation, however, I did ask for more information. It should be served suitably – Dry. A Stuffed Paratha (£2.50) would accompany.
This has my juices flowing – words not associated with Dr. Stan, but soon to become a landmark statement. We may refer to this again. Dr. Stan asked for another Poppadom, another half was supplied. The Spiced Onions had a definite Kick, better than the norm.
Paratha
Both the Stuffed and the Tandoori Parathas were served quartered. Hector prefers to tear off strips from a whole. Whatever had been used to – stuff – the Paratha was at a Minimum. Too Thin, no sense of Flakiness or Layers. What sort of Paratha was this? Poor.
Bhuteko Khasi
The Bhuteko Khasi was presented with the Thick, Minimal Masala that was agreed upon. The Standard Version may differ. The Spice from the Dips was still stronger on the palate through much of the eating, though in time, Spice did emanate from the Lamb. There was very little Flavour, the Dish lacked Seasoning. The Spring Onion was a Topping and at least added a welcomed diversity.
Mein Host, who was doing his very best to look after us, came over. It was time to question the Meat. The Lamb was not like any Standard Tender Lamb. Lamb does not cut this way. Beef suspected. I was assured that the Lamb had been marinated in Spice, that is why it was harder.
One is left to wonder why the Bhuteko Khasi had such little Flavour. So it goes.
Achari Lamb
This appeared to be very much a – Standard Curry. Topped with Tomato and Ginger Strips, this gave the impression of being the better of the two Dishes.
An enjoyable curry, plenty of pickle in that. – is Dr. Stan becoming verbose?
Mein Host had to take the broadside about the Parathas. I told him I expect a Paratha to be Layered and Flaky. We were told they were cooked in a Tandoor. Why not on a Tawaa – I asked.
Recommendation – Avoid the Parathas.
The Bill
£29.35. Within Acceptable Parameters.
The Aftermath
The Calling Card was given. Mein Host was polite to the end.
Meanwhile back at The Staggs…