Hector is back at Karahi Palace (51 – 53 Nelson Street, Glasgow, G5 8DZ) four days after an afternoon of indulgence. Dr. Robin requested a midweek Curry outing, he chose the venue. Hector would hardly criticise his choice, so it goes.
Having discussed a need to get here more often, today was the Perfect Opperchancity to try something different. In Hector’s case, return to the Dish which first made me take note of this venue – Karela Handi Gosht.
At 16.00 this Wednesday afternoon, Qaiser was once more front of house, Chef Rashid was in – his spot. A Chap who may have been a customer sat at an adjacent table, he turned out to be a New Chap. All was set.
Dr. Robin was happy to stick to the tried and tested – Lamb Karahi (£7.90). I had Qaiser confirm that Karela was available then showed him the archive photo on Curry-Heute of this Wondrous Dish. Karela Handi Gosht (£7.50) was ordered, though I was informed that it would be served in a Karahi, the Ceramic Pots have long disappeared at Karahi Palace. Chapattis (£0.70) completed the Order.
There was no Salad today.
Lamb Karahi
I have described this Perfect Curry oft. Read any other revue of Karahi Palace and the chances are this Dish features.
Dr. Robin appreciated the – Blend of Spices – as he ate.
Spicy without being too Spicy – was his contribution to today’s Blog.
Karela Handi Gosht
This is a Demanding Curry. Karela, – The Bitter Gourd – is not for all. The Minimal Masala looked even Thicker and Drier than the above Dish. More Salt required – was my first note, followed by – Big Spice Hit. The Bitterness was to the fore, then I realised, with more Salt, this Curry would not work at all. I have enjoyed Stuffed Karela at Punjabi Charing Cross courtesy of – Hari’s Wife, it was Intensely Flavoured. I have watched Yvonne struggle with this Dish at Ambala Deli Bar, the balance of Meat to Vegetable has to be judged carefully else one ends up with too much of the latter.
The customary Toppings of Chopped Green Chillies, Ginger Strips and Fresh Coriander were complemented by Whole Chillies cooked in. The Spice Level should therefore not have been a surprise. No problems here.
The Tenderest of Lamb on-the-bone was a combination of Ribs and Sucky Bones. There was a proverbial mountain of Food before me. The Tomato-based Masala Mash also featured Karela Seeds which had to be fished out. As ever, the Oil collected at the base of the Karahi. A Magnificent Curry.
The New Chap approached us, and spoke. He asked if we required more Chapattis. Dr. Robin was nearly finished his, another one was ordered to share. It came in good time to revitalise the end game.
The Bill
£17.50. Why pay more?
The Aftermath
A promise to myself, no Curry this weekend.
A promise? Sounds more like a threat! A weekend with no curry, is that a first?
Hector replies:
Fear not, normal weekends will follow.
We must compare diaries and establish common blanks before April…