Glasgow – Basharat G’z – One Month Later

I promised not to return to Basharat G’z (223-225 Allison Street, Glasgow, G42 8RU) for at least two weeks having visited three times in the eight days after the launch of this new Southside Curry Cafe. At least Basharat G’z has survived the month since my last visit, which is more than the previous incarnation of Curry House managed in these premises.

Ricky, The Man from Bradford, is in Glasgow for a few days, there shall be at least one Curry. The first choice of venue had to be Basharat G’z. Ricky is as keen as Hector to try new places in the hope of finding that – something special. Having been thoroughly impressed by the half kilo of Lamb Karahi (£12.00) and previously taken four other friends to share the experience, Hector was confident that this would impress The Rickmeister.

We arrived just after 15.00, a young chap I didn’t recognise was behind the counter. When Abbas saw us in the dining area, the warmth of greeting was such that one felt like a regular. This was only Visit #4. Basharat, Mein Host and Chef, was summoned to prepare the Order. Introductions were made. Basharat appeared not to know that Bradford is still – The Curry Capital of the UK, he does now.

You’re under no pressure – I put to him.

It is about time Glasgow regained the title, we have a much greater diversity of Flavours. However, the Curry Houses chosen to represent us are not the ones Hector would select. Surely someone who has eaten in every Curry House in Glasgow, bar about five presently, should be consulted?

Ricky insisted on having his Karahi Gosht without bones, Hector would optimise the event by having the more authentic – on-the-bone. Abbas predicted – Chilli-Coriander Naan (£3.00) – for Hector knowing that this was perfected on my last visit. After Ricky figuratively picked himself off the floor at the prospect of actually having to pay for Bread, he ordered a Garlic Naan (£2.80). As shall be further exemplified at the end of this month, many Bradford Curry Houses regard Rice/Chapattis/Naan as a necessary, and therefore free, inclusion.

Those who were present on our arrival soon departed, what had they been up to? They were quickly replaced by a family with young children, one of whom decided that constantly kicking the bench seat was mandatory. Every kick reverberated into my back. No enforcement of discipline here, and much discomfort for Hector.

Abbas brought the food, he was already apologising for the size of the Naans, they should have been larger. What we saw, suited us both. Small Naan (£1.00) – says the Menu.

The Breads

The Chilli and Coriander Naan was halfway to becoming the Rogni style having perforations across the centre, and being – puffy – only around the periphery. There was ample filling, a delightful Naan. A scrap would be left over.

The Garlic Naan had suitably risen and was puffy throughout. For those who enjoy a Garlic overdose, this looked just the job.

A Salad was provided, this remained untouched. Had it been brought earlier, we would have nibbled.

Lamb Karahi

An excess of Oil was a feature of my first visits here, this has been taken on board. The amount of Oil in the Karahi was well judged, some is necessary else the full Flavours of the Curry are not going to be revealed. We therefore both had ideal Lamb Karahi, abundant Meat, Minimal and Thick Masala. It’s all therefore about what happens next.

Ricky was positive from the start. The first mouthful should be that special moment.

You’re back on form – was Ricky’s complimentary comment aimed in my direction. This Lamb Karahi was streets ahead of the last two new venues I had taken him to namely the commendable Namak Mandi, and the somewhat quirky Shinwari Restaurant nearby.

Excellent Curry – continued Ricky.

Basharat was out from the kitchen to check that all was well. Well of course it was, he understands what a Karahi Gosht is. The Spice and Seasoning were well pitched, therefore the distinctive Flavours were to the fore. One could identify this from a line of Karahi Gosht if such a contest was ever set up.

Every member of staff came to check on our progress and ask if there was anything else we required. Given that Basharat G’z is primarily a Takeaway, this was service.

Comparing today’s meal with the Takeaway that Ricky bought in Partick last night:

Halfway, I’ve now got twice as much meat left as I had (in total) yesterday.

Ah, the joy of the half kilo. Hector’s pile of bones grew. A Lamb Chop was encountered. On-the-bone is always more Flavoursome than Boneless, yet Ricky wanted to maximise the amount of Meat on his plate. I knew I could manage what lay before me, in the end, Ricky had to abandon three pieces of Lamb.