John contacted me last week, he desired a return visit to Yadgar Kebab House (148 Calder St, Govanhill, Glasgow, G42 7QP). He admits to having eaten here prior to his – Hector Experiences – but never realised just what was available. Dr. Stan would join us, and so the request was sent to Shkoor, Mein Host – to feed three with Lamb Chops Achari as the Main Course. Shkoor’s reply suggested – you need to expand your palate. We know what we like – was the reply. When Howard signed up for the visit, then a second Dish became possible. Lamb Chops Achari and… a surprise.
17.45 is later than Hector prefers to eat, especially when there is a need to fast all day prior to – The Feast. Howard and Dr. Stan were waiting, Hector arrived bang on the scheduled 17.45. Naveed offered us Poppadoms whilst we waited for John. Poppadoms and four Dips were brought just as John took his seat. A Salad featuring Black Olives was soon followed by a plate of Boneless Chicken Tikka then Fish Pakora. A bowl of Raita with Cucumber and Tomato completed the array of Starters.
The Chicken Tikka was the first I’ve had in ages, there was a good – Kick. Eaten as a Starter this is always enjoyed, why people choose to put this in Curry still puzzles. The Fish Pakora was very fresh. John asked me if I new what type of Fish it was. For once I was – Hector the Knowledgeable.
Haddock – was the reply.
The Quantity of Starters on the table was well judged, with a suitable time-out we could digest what had been eaten in preparation for the main event. We still didn’t know what would accompany the Achari.
The new Waiter brought the Lamb Chops Achari then presented the second karahi. Clearly there was Lamb, whole Potatoes were present also, – Aloo Gosht – then. It took a moment or two to spot the Black Olives embedded in the Masala. Only on serving were the Green Olives revealed. Curry with Olives, first encountered in Blairgowrie at the former Meghna, now Sampan.
Three Chapattis were provided initially, I told Naveed that John is – The Chapatti King. For once, more than one Chapatti each would be required, and so they kept coming.
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Lamb Chops Achari
The number of Chops could not be seen through the mound of Meat and Masala. I suggested three each to start then we would have an idea of the Quantity. With a dozen Chops removed, we had hardly made an impression. Another two each then it was – help yourself. Dr. Stan and John had a plate for Bones on their side of the table, Howard and Hector looked after their own. I had at least eight Chop Bones by the time I had to admit defeat. Can one ever have too many Lamb Chops?
Some Chefs would use Tandoori Chops then simply smother them in the Masala from the – Sauce Pot. At Yadgar, the Chops are cooked in the Masala, a completely different result is achieved. With the Pickle added, this is a remarkable creation, the Flavour is full on. The Spice Level and Seasoning were pitched Perfectly.
Stunning – was an early remark from John.
Aloo Gosht – with Olives
The last time I had Goshat Karahi here, the recognisable – Yadgar Taste – took a while to reveal itself. Not this evening, it was there from the start. Then the Olives hit home. This was remarkable, a Goshat Karahi – plus. The Potatoes added diversity to the whole meal, else we would have been gorging on – Meat – alone. Having sated the desire for Chops momentarily, I was suprised at how well the Flavours from this Dish were holding their own. Achari can be overpowering, this was in no way inferior, perhaps the Olives had added a new dimension. That we had both Green and Black Olives was bold.
About ten minutes into our Feast, familiar faces walked in. Rashid, formerly of the Akash (Helensburgh) was accompanied by his Lady who assisted at Hector’s Retiral Dinner, plus two Chaps. His name has popped up on a certain Social Medium, suggesting he passes close to Hector’s House on a regular basis. I also saw this one evening when Marg and Hector were diverted through the Vale of Leven, I then knew Rashid must be working there somewhere.
Mr. Anwar Sr. came over for a chat also on his way off the premises. This was our first opperchancity to express our appreciation for the Fayre before us.
In the end we could not finish either karahi. I know what a Kilo of Curry looks like, there was appreciably more in each karahi. This photo is around the halfway mark.
It is time for the ritual quotes from my fellow diners:
Howard – Thank you for inviting me.
Flavour, texture, spice, a wonderful combination in both dishes, on a par with each other. The spice levels increased with (both) dishes, a superb Curry.
Shafiq appeared to take away the leftovers. Two decent Takeaways would be Helensburgh bound. I introduced him:
This is the man who once presented me (dining alone) with a sixteen Lamb Chop Karahi. Shafiq offered Tea, Coffee, Dessert. These were declined.
Dr. Stan – Are we having rice pudding?
John – I’m lost in a mire of taste and texture, absolutely stunning.
Dr. Stan – I enjoyed it very much. It was interesting to have a new flavour.
The Bill
Hector to Naveed – Is that enough?
Naveed to Hector – That’s more than enough.
The Aftermath
So, John, how many Chapattis did you have?
Three.
I also confirmed that Rashid is now working at a Takeaway in Bonhill – Raj Kebab House. I was amused at the prospect of his group coming to Yadgar for – Curry. They were here only for the Tea.