On last month’s visit to The Staggs, Musselburgh, Hector was introduced to – Curry Enthusiasts – Peter and Karen (who took our photo?). Peter was keen to tell me that he makes his own Curry – from scratch. For many, this means grinding one’s own Spices. Peter has taken this further, growing his own Chillies and Garlic. He promised he would have a sample for me today.
Peter arrived at The Staggs first this afternoon, the day that for ninety seconds, we thought Scotland would enjoy a glorious victory over the Auld Enemy. I related my visit to the Ramadan Buffet at The Village two days ago. On seeing my photos Peter appreciated my strong preference for Lamb, they had debated what should be brought. His Lady arrived thereafter with the promised Curry, a Chicken Curry.
It took great concentration to transport my modest takeaway across Central Scotland. On opening the container, there was a blast of – Freshness – the aroma was most enticing. By 22.30 some Basmati had been prepared and the Soupçon-Plus of Chicken Curry was reheated.
The Chicken, which was on-the-bone, had started to shred suggesting it was not Halal. The Blended Masala still retained an Interesting Texture, the pieces of Garlic?
The Spice Level was most acceptable, the Seasoning was under for my palate. And there, Dear Reader I have to stop. It was Chicken Curry, I have written oft why I never order Chicken Curry.
But the appetite had been whetted….
The Soupçon-Plus had not fed The Hector, time to try an experiment. Some months ago, for research purposes and in case of emergency, Hector purchased Chicken Tikka Masala from Iceland.
Their flyer, which had come through my door, claimed it was a much improved recipe and was better than the Marks and Spencer equivalent. Twenty years ago, the M&S version was quite Substantial and Flavoursome. Served as a portion for two, without Rice, it was a challenge for one to finish; then a single portion with Rice became the norm. That is when I stopped purchasing it, a waste of money.
More Basmati was prepared in the time it took to heat this Packet Curry from frozen. As expected, the portion was Pitiful. The Masala was Sweet and Soupy, an absolute disgrace and not worthy of the term – Curry. Never again.
Now I appreciated the home-cooked Chicken Curry. Thank you.