Two days in Manchester, first stop as always – Kabana (22 Back Turner St., Northern Quarter, Manchester M4 1LQ England). A fragrant Marg, accompanied by a hot and sweaty Hector, arrived in The Northern Quarter at 15.45, Rizwan, Mein Host, was outside taking a phone-call, I announced that we would wait inside to be served by the man himself. The other two front of house chaps acknowledged me, hopefully I did not upset them by declining service. One did come and tuck Hector in at the table.
I wonder what I’ll have – I said to Rizwan minutes later, as if there was any doubt. Karahi Lamb on-the-bone (£6.00) with Rice (£1.50) for Hector, Keema Peas (£5.30) and a Chapatti (£0.80) for Marg. Marg ordering – Mince – no change there either.
Rizwan brought the Keema Peas followed by the three tubs of – foliage. Ah, the foliage, help yourself, a significant feature of Curry in Manchester.
Karahi Lamb
The naked Curry is tasty enough, the smothering of Coriander Leaves adds a a new dimension to the overall Flavour, then there’s the added bite from the finely chopped Ginger and sliced Green Chillies.
Line up Curry from a hundred restaurants, and Hector will pick out the Kabana Karahi every time. Cloves and Peppercorns were unearthed, the Flavours in the blended Masala, magical. The quality of the Lamb always astonishes, beautifully Tender and full of Flavour, the joy of Meat that has actually been in contact with the Masala for longer than the Mainstream Restaurants.
I positioned a large Clove beside the pile of bones. The chap who clears up was amused, I told him that the Cloves are fundamental to what makes this Curry. The Meat being served on-the-bone, for those who wish it that way, adds even more. Spectacular Curry, yet Marg ordered Mince.
Keema Peas
Behold as Dry a Keema as one can encounter, and no sign of peripheral Oil. Rice would not work with this Curry.
The accompanying Chapatti was huge. Risen and puffy, quite a departure from the standard fayre.
Marg made short work of her late lunch:
Keema is my favourite option for Curry at the moment (?) and this Keema with Peas did not disappoint, plenty flavour with a kick, complemented by a very hot and fresh Chapatti.
As always, Rizwan took time to chat, perhaps surprised to see Hector back in Manchester so soon. I had warned him of a Scottish invasion this week. Others in – The Company – will no doubt visit. For Hector, tomorrow is Wednesday, that means Quail at – the other – Kabana.
The Bill
£13.60 Amazing value.
The Aftermath
And so, back out into the heat. It was reported earlier that nowhere in the UK reached the present temperature throughout August.