12.45, Marg dropped Hector at Karahi Palace (51-53 Nelson Street, Tradeston, Glasgow, G5 8DZ) en route to hockey. The shutters were down, the door unlocked. 13.00, I believe is the current opening time. There was no sign of Ayaz, the new, mature chap behind the counter greeted. He was clearly busy with preparation.
Are we open?
He is coming – was the reply.
I took my spot.
After a few minutes, the Order was taken: Karahi Lamb (£12.00) and one Chapatti (£1.00). Hector would forego the customary tweaks, no – more Methi, extra Salt. I settled down to watch football on the Oppo. VAR is doing my head in, no consistency.
The chap brought a plate and napkins, a jug of Tap Water was secured. Today, no bleach taste. A one man show, he was doing well to get both bits of my meal ready.
The Wholemeal Chapatti arrived in quarters, not the end of the World, however, do that to a Naan and all is not well. I would eat all but a crumb.
Karahi Lamb
Unbelievably, this was my first visit to Karahi Palace this year. Consistency, the name of the game. Super-hot, the Karahi Lamb was topped with Ginger Strips and a threat of Coriander. It looked as if Chef Rashid/Ayaz had prepared this wonderful creation. The method in how pre-cooked Lamb is transformed into Karahi is slowly being divulged on YouTube, achieving these particular results remains a secret. This may have been partly revealed today.
The Seasoning was there, the Spice Level was not demanding, fewer sliced Green Chillies than the regular Chefs would have added.
McKellar Watts – for meatiness! The Meat was so Tender, full of the Flavour of Lamb and giving back Spice. The Tomato-based Masala was as astonishing as ever, immense Flavours. So few bones today, a lot of eating.
Ayaz entered around 13.20 carrying supplies, he was surprised to see me tucking in. I gave the thumbs up, his assistant had done me proud. The fifty litre drum of – Pearl – cooking oil was a revelation. I wonder how much this cost? I shall hopefully source this soonest, along with Coley and King Fish.
The shutters were finally raised, the sunlight flooded in. When does winter arrive?
I ate on. The karahi was wiped clean. Astonishing Karahi, why this place is not queued out from opening time remains a mystery. Ignore the modest surroundings, try the Curry!
The Bill
£13.00 No tweaks, so no tweak charge.
The Aftermath
Where are your friends? – asked Ayaz.
Too early – was the reply. Once again an early kick-off due to that sport which commands part-time interest.
It looks as though I’ll be back here on Friday. Will Alan have Karahi or the Spicy Korma (with Mushroom Rice)? Six more days and all shall be revealed.