After the preview evening at the Bradford Beer Festival held in Saltaire (CAMRA members only), Hector knew that a late night Bradford Curry was called for. Jonathan would accompany.
Amar greeted me by name when we entered the Sheesh Mahal (6 St. Thomas’ Rd, Bradford, BD1 2RW) @23.00. There was no sign of Taj, Mein Host, or his son Omar. Amar was running the show.
Menus were brought along with the customary welcome of Poppadoms, Salad and Dips. The – Mash – had a particularly – Earthy – Flavour and would keep us amused until the Order was presented. The Seasoning here stood out, this was a worthy dip. The Lime Pickle was not touched, it can kill the palate and spoil what follows. One could stir it in, which reminds me, I have not had an Achari for some time.
On looking at the Menu, it was a matter of which Keema would Jonathan have? Keema Massala (£7.50) was his choice, preceded by Shami Kebab (£2.20). I decided to ignore the Menu and order a Bespoke Curry. In recent visits the Dreaded Ballast has been creeping in and so Amar was instructed:
Lamb, on-the-bone, with Methi and no Capsicum.
No problem – was his reply. This should never be a problem, however, some venues claim the Peppers are already in. Six inclusive Chapattis would accompany.
*
Shami Kebab
The two Patties looked to be well fired and possibly Dry. I would hear no complaints.
We both spotted the skewer hole through the middle, these had been cooked in the Tandoor, interesting. I must try these on a future visit.
Keema Massala
Behold the Karahi full of Mince and topped with a sprinkling of Fresh Coriander. There was no surplus Masala here, served as a Keema should be, so why was it called Keema Massala?
Jonathan: As always, what I would expect from the Sheesh Mahal, well spiced, full of flavour.
*
The Amar Curry
This Curry typified why I am so keen to come to Bradford, this was a Bradford Curry! The Masala was as Thick and Rich in Flavour as one can encounter. The Bradford Taste – soon revealed itself, the Methi doing its job. The Lamb was presented attached to a variety of Bones: Chops, Ribs and Sucky. The Spice was well pitched, the Seasoning was decidedly Brave. Bones, Methi, Seasoning, the ingredients which make – The Perfect Curry.
That was a Bradford Curry! – I exclaimed mopping up the last morsel with a piece of Chapatti.
Yes, that was – replied Jonathan.
Are you finished? – asked Amar.
I’m sorry I couldn’t eat the Bones.
We weren’t finished, a Complimentary Dessert was placed on the table. Sugar, calories, just what we didn’t need. We cleared the lot. Thank you, Amar.
The Bill
£18.20. My creation was listed as – Lamb Massala (On Bone) – £7.95.
The Aftermath
Amar’s missing colleagues: Taj has retired, I hope Omar gets well soon.
We took a taxi down the hill, I asked the Driver if he had any recommendations. The Punjabi Sweet House I have been to three times and am probably overdue a return visit. On Manningham Lane lies Sultans, if they open at Lunchtime I can fit in a first visit.
