October 31, 2019, note the date that Hector returned to Karahi Palace (51-53 Nelson Street, Tradeston, Glasgow, G5 8DZ), the first visit here since the start of August. October 31, 2019, not-Brexit Day, once again. Soon we shall get to vote with the likelihood of achieving sod all. So it goes.
Since the monthly visits to Staggs (Musselburgh) moved to a Thursday, because we can, Karahi Palace Curry has become less of a – given. Having arrived back at Glasgow Central instead of Queen St., the short hop across the Clyde was too tempting. It was daylight last time I was here, but having played around with the clocks, Nelson St. was in darkness. Why not put the clocks forward in the autumn?
All of the downstairs tables were occupied, a chap sat alone in my favourite seat.
Do you mind if I join you?
Having taken the seat opposite, I asked the chap what he had ordered.
Lamb Karahi (£7.90).
For the next half hour or so, Hector and Zafer sat and talked all things – Curry.
Ayaz, Mein Host, was front of house, Chef Rashid was in his spot.
I had better order – I said in passing to Zafer. Hardly a word was exchanged between Ayaz and myself, – Karahi Lamb – as is written on the Menu.
Usual – said Ayaz, one Chapatti (£0.70) to accompany.
It comes as I like it – I informed Zafer, extra Methi, extra Seasoning for the uninitiated.
Zafer, from the North of England, and presently working in the West of Scotland, is a regular at Karahi Palace, the only place he has found that serves – Desi – as he likes it.
Zafer was given the Calling Card, he now has all of the information he needs. Glasgow’s Southside Curry Cafes are all covered, Glasgow’s Top Rated – venues offer that – je ne sais quoi. Zafer will hopefully add a footnote to this post, he rhymed off a list of outstanding venues in the towns surrounding Manchester which he sees as – must visit – places. Manchester? So last weekend, OK, I’ll go back.
Zafer’s Lamb Karahi arrived – wait until you see mine – was my reaction. I have friends and acquaintances who go to Karahi Palace and ask for this dish to be served – Hector style. Fortunately, my Lamb Karahi was not too far behind.
Karahi Lamb
The Oil and Masala sizzled as Ayaz placed it on the table. The Ginger Strips and Coriander Leaves sat atop the Lamb on-the-bone. Hector was back in the land of – Big Meat. Ribs were the dominant bone in this pile of Lamb. Can I describe the Meat as – grey? As is the Karahi Palace norm, there was just enough Masala-mash, not an excess. Having written that, I have seen others order Curry here which I would describe as – Soup, their choice.
The Spice and Seasoning were exactly as I hope for, Rashid knows how to make a Happy Hector. The food was Hot! The Flavours were immense.
The solitary Chapatti was quite sufficient. Thin, in the traditional style, a medium by which to transfer the Karahi to mouth. There is no need for a more elaborate Bread.
After the indulgence that was Manchester and Bradford last week, it was good to be back celebrating the joy of Curry in one’s own backyard.
The Bill
£8.70 Why pay more, for less?
The Aftermath
Did you like the food? – asked Ayaz.
Rashid has so much to learn – was the ironic reply. Somehow, another staff photo was called for.
Relax – I tried my best, they do look like statues.