There was always going to be a Sheffield Curry after a day spent at the Shakespeare Ale Festival which could become another – must visit – in the calendar. Hector hoped that Howard would accompany on a return trip to Apna Style (27 Wolseley Road, Sheffield, England S8 0ZT) which has been visited twice in recent weeks. Instead Mags was the company and 7 Spices Balti (Mayfair Court, 120 Gibraltar St., Sheffield S3 8PP England) was the chosen venue. It is virtually next door to Shakespeare.
On my last visit here I described the Massala Fish Handi – as being amongst the Best Fish Karahi I have ever tasted. On an earlier visit, Mags considered her favoured Aloo Gosht as being the best ever. Nothing to live up to then.
The Menu has changed: Massala Fish Handi (£8.50) is now Masala Fish Handi (£9.95). Aloo Gosht, not on the Menu, has only gone up 45p to £8.95. The Paratha here has previously impressed. Plain Paratha is not on the Menu, two were ordered regardless. Half litre Bottles of Still and Sparkling Water (£2.00) completed the Order.
The Menu, posted below, impressed overall. There are many Dishes on offer that are different from the – Mainstream: Arabian Lamb Handi, Aromatic Monkfish & Spicy Vegetables, Lamb with Apricots Handi to name three. More days in Sheffield, anyone?
On the last visit, Mein Host informed us that 7 Spices Balti was due to be refurbished. This was another reason why I was happy to return this evening. I went out of my way take photos of the new décor from the moment I arrived. Mein Host, Brian, was not on duty. I was told by the Waiter who appeared to be in charge this evening that Brian now only works four days. Another Waiter, Ali, was very gushy and all over us when we arrived. Thankfully the Manager this evening took the Order.
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It was Ali who brought the plates which he warned us were – Hot. They were! The trolley was wheeled over and the final stir given to our Dishes, the food at 7 Spices Balti is served – Piping Hot – as it should be.
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The Paratha ticked nearly all the boxes, Hot, Whole, Soft, Flaky. Layered and – The Swirl. A lack of Seasoning was the only criticism. I made a point of listing all the criteria to Mags who recognised that our Parathas were otherwise – excellent. Something very strange followed in that we managed to finish both.
Aloo Gosht
A Rich Masala containing fine strips of Onion was giving up the surplus Oil towards the edge of the karahi. The Meat to Potato looked balanced at 50:50.
Not bad – said Mags – one of the better ones.
So, not as outstanding as before?
Mags cleared the lot, no Cold Curry for breakfast tomorrow.
That was n…
That word is permitted sparingly in Curry-Heute.
Masala Fish Handi
It is difficult to tell the Dishes apart in the photos, same Masala. I had asked at the point of ordering that no Capsicums should appear. I wondered if any might have sneaked in otherwise. If the plate and the Paratha were – hot, the Fish Handi was – burny hot, delightful. Someone should tell Zest (Edinburgh).
The Masala gave the impression that it had not been blended, although there was a Herb presence, once again I had forgotten to ask for (extra) Methi. There was a slight Sweetness which Methi would have taken care of. I have no notes on the Spice Level, the Seasoning was below that which is hoped for. This was a decent Fish Curry but had not made the impression experienced last year.
When the Manager cleared the table, I placed my hand where the karahi had sat, the table was still warm. I must start praising venues more profusely which serve – Hot Food.
We were offered Coffee on the house. It was far too late in the day for Hector to drink Coffee, sleep required, gesture appreciated. Mags concurred.
The Bill
£30.45 £3.50 for a Plain Paratha, ouch. It’s a piece of Pastry.
The Aftermath
Ali was back to ask how we had enjoyed our meal.
I told him more Salt was needed.
Less salt – he replied.
No, more.
He’s keen.
As we departed I was recognised by the owner who was just arriving. Is Thursday everyone’s day off?
