Curry once more in the small hours, but nothing like as late as last night at Sheesh Mahal. This morning it was once again time to evaluate the service and fayre at International (40-42 Morley Street, Bradford, BD7 1BA) in the post Khalid & Ali era. Steve has joined Clive and Hector in Bradford, and not before time.
I attempted to capture the new illuminated signage, maybe an early evening photo would be better, but who dines then? International opens at 16.30, until late, lunchtime Curry here has never been an option.
The restaurant was surprisingly busy, but how many present were young waiters and waitresses buzzing about? I recognised no-one. We were given the table adjacent to the stairs, how often have I been sat here in the past twenty five years?
The latest edition of the Menu was provided, quite a read. Getting Clive through this would be a challenge. Somehow we cut to the chase: Keema Mutter Karahi (£10.95) with a Keema Naan (£2.95) was his choice. However, I did point out the likelihood that a Plain Naan (£2.50) would be inclusive, so why pay so much when Mince was in his Curry? Clive saw the logic. Steve, aka Mr. Madras, went for the three Chilli rated – Lamb Masaledar (£10.95) which includes – naga pickle – so an Achari variant. Steve would have Rice (£2.50) to accompany.
Hector has eaten a lot of Curry in the past two weeks, something different was required. It was time to revisit a previous fixation: Karela Lamb Karahi (£10.95), accompanying Chapattis would suffice. It is possible that the last time I ordered Karela was on these very premises, two years ago, I was impressed.
How many Poppadoms? – asked the waiter.
Clive as usual was straight in with two (£0.60). With the accompanying Pickle Tray (£1.95) understood, that’s £3.15 on – The Bill – already, and for what? In the days of Khalid & Ali, Poppadoms and Dips would have been on the table in a flash, no questions, and Complimentary, of course.
I asked if he was – selling or giving? The question appeared not to have been initially understood. Eventually his answer was clear. I concluded that he was programmed to sell as many Poppadoms as possible. At least he did confirm that the Rice, Chapattis and Plain Naan would be inclusive. I should hope so, prices here are high for Bradford.
Clive would have his Poppadoms, Steve and I would pay two thirds of the cost as is the honourable practice, – The Curry-Heute Campaign – continues.
The wait for the Curry felt appropriate. Six Chapattis arrived along with the Rice and Naan, so how did that happen?
Keema Mutter Karahi
The wedge of Tomato on top complemented the Coriander, a colourful presentation. With the Peas protruding from the Mince, and only a hint of Masala on one side of the karahi, this gave the appearance of a worthy Keema Mutter.
The spiciest Keema I’ve ever had – declared Clive – can’t say the best, had so many, but definitely up there.
I note that this Curry only had a two Chilli rating, so bring on the Masaledar!
Lamb Masaledar
The highly visible Masala gave this the appearance of being closer to a Traditional Curry as opposed to the Dry-Bradford-style. Rice most certainly was a good choice of accompaniment, there was enough Masala to justify it.
This is amazing – was Steve’s solitary contribution to Curry-Heute this morning. The Spice Level did not bother him.
Karela Lamb Karahi
A two Chilli rating for this Curry, certainly Drier than the Masaledar, therefore in the Bradford style. The Meat was also cut Bradford-small. There was no visible Oil at the start, and none collected on the periphery thereafter. Chef may well have been – dabbing – before this Curry was brought to the table. Hector is not averse to Oil, but many find it off-putting, so this may suit those of that inclination.
There was a – kick – and it kept coming. The level of Seasoning was decidedly low which felt strange after the – Salt-Fest – of the latter days of the Khalid & Ali era. International Curry has changed.
Tinned Karela? – I recorded. The Texture was not that of the preferred Fresh, there was no – Bitter Gourd Flavour – here. The Overall Flavour reflected the Dry Masala, an Earthiness which I always enjoy, however, the Meat was doing something on the palate that I did not like. The Texture was not sitting right. Was this a throwback to the attempt at eating – Liver – last night at Sheesh Mahal? Is Hector – Lambed-out?
The Spice kept building to the detriment of the Flavour, Hector reached the Curry wall, it was time to stop.
It was fully twelve hours since I had last eaten, the appetite was there. Maybe I’m Chapattid-out too? Is it time to return to Rice? Is this the end?
The Bill
£38.50 Why six Chapattis were recorded, who knows? As a consequence there was a charge for the Plain Naan.
The Aftermath
No farewells, a young waitress dealt with the card payments, very little interaction. Where was Poppadom Joe?