After watching a magnificent victory at Murrayfield (words I never thought I would write) on TV, Hector was later than usual for his Saturday Mid-afternoon Curry-Heute.
Arriving at Ambala Deli Bar (11 Forth St., Glasgow, Scotland, G41 2SP) at 15.35, a New Waitress showed me to a small table on the far side of the room. Five other tables were occupied, three of these would feature weans.
With the Menu already on the table, finding my choice for the day was a simple matter of confirmation. I have missed the Handi Gosht (£10.99), a Garlic and Coriander Nan (£2.75) would accompany. The Waitress was keen to serve, she took the Order then returned moments later:
Do you want Chicken or Lamb?
Gosht is Lamb – I assured her. This is her first week, she will learn.
T
here was a near constant, thud – thud – thud – the partition wall was vibrating. A wean was kicking the wall, thud – thud – thud. This persisted until their Order arrived, Burgers and Pizza. Parents, control your children, please!
The Waitress was back to apologise for the wait.
The Handi is made specially, I’m a regular here, I know what to expect.
She reminded me of a former pupil whose name has long since past into a distant memory. Hector can do faces, not names.
Handi Gosht
The Lamb on-the-bone was so Tender, double figures, a mass of Lamb. The Masala was Magnificent, thick with Tomato Pulp. The Spice Level was Moderate, the Seasoning was a tad under Perfection. The Vegetable Oil used at Ambala is so distinctive, KTC I was told by Naveed in an early visit. I conclude that Naveed is no longer at Ambala.
The Ginger Strips, Fresh Coriander Leaves and Stem added Diversity. Bone splinters became an issue, great care had to be taken. Danger, Hector!
Garlic & Coriander Nan
The Naan was served in two pieces, why? I must remember to ask for my Bread to be served – Whole, it is so much more impressive. However, the aroma from this Naan hit instantly, – Dripping with Flavour. Closer study revealed perforations, a thin Naan almost in the Kulcha style. I have come to realise in the past couple of weeks that whilst the Garlic on a Naan is so tasty, it can actually contaminate the palate, the Flavour of the Curry can be masked. This was happening today. Coriander Naan in future.
I had not finished, I was offered The Bill. Keen.
The Bill
£13.74. Most acceptable for this Quantity of Curry.
The Aftermath
I counted nine weans in the Restaurant as I departed, only one was annoying…
We put our clocks back tonight, why? Put them forward, save daylight in the evening when we’re awake.