Three months ago, on Visit #1 to Maharaja Indian Restaurant (Art of Food) (Hugona Kollataja 22, 50-002 Wroclaw, Polska) there was sense of potential and the promise of a new menu. On our arrival at 15.40 the menu posted on the wall remained the same, Mein Host, not present last time, seemed not to recognise his new menu when shown on a well and reliable Curry Website.
We hadn’t taken a seat, a Hector Curry would be secured else we were walking. I showed Mein Host a photo of his Lamb Curry (Zl42) and told him I did not want Soupy Curry. Lamb Kadai (Zl44) was mooted, could this be served without Capsicum? Apparently so, but when Mein Host mentioned Onions, I feared his Karahi may well be a stir-fry. He suggested Lamb Tikka Masala (Zl44), no thanks, then Lamb Palak (Zl44). Palak + Rice (Zl44) was agreed.
For Marg, a simple choice: Mutter Aloo Gobi + Rice (Zl28). Two half litre bottles of Sparkling Water (Zl7) completed the Order.
We took the table nearest the counter. Two other couples were present, as they departed so others arrived. Takeaway customers too, a steady business. I had time to contemplate my Order: what had I done? A Creamy Spinach Curry in Europe? Usually the aftertaste is similar to stuffed vine leaves as served in Hellas. Had I not suffered enough today? Radio Scotland had provided the football commentary, their panel insisted VAR had got it wrong. So it goes.
Sharing the litre of Sparkling Water proved to be enjoyable, well chilled, refreshing.
Two sensibly sized portions of Rice were brought to the table. I would eat every grain, Marg, who prefers Bread, deliberately would not have it all.
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Lamb Palak
The Thick Mash of Herbs put this Palak Gosht into the lesser category as defined in Curry-Heute. There was no obvious sign of a Masala. The Meat count may just have reached double figures, it was difficult to see. Having arranged the Curry on the Rice, I licked the spoon – ah, Seasoning!
The Spice grew slowly, the Spinach did not come across as Bitter as it can do. Other Flavours emerged from the Mash, the listed Spices suggested that there may well have been a base Masala. The Meat was suitably Tender but felt remote from the rest of the Curry.
Around the halfway point I realised that I was truly enjoying this creation. Usually Spinach calls me, today’s Saag/Palak was not planned. There was something quite remarkable sitting before me. This was an excellent Curry, full of Flavour, as good an example of the genre as I have encountered. Did I mention the Seasoning?
That was super-good, as some say in Berlin.
Mutter Aloo Gobi
This Vegetable Curry was served majestically. What a beautifully Thick and Minimal Masala. I wonder if this is how it is usually served at Maharaja? Marg offered me some Cauliflower, I asked for Potato, that would tell me more.
I could actually taste the Peas from the Potato such was the level of infusion. I think a side of this must be ordered in future visits. Marg enjoyed her Vegetable Curry:
A plate full of crunchy cauliflower, soft potatoes and an abundance of peas, made up with a tomato and onion sauce. A lovely change, and the Rice completed this healthy meal.
As we ate, so Mein Host came to ask the customary question. Our enjoyment was relayed. I had to ask if Methi Gosht was ever available, as per the mystery menu. Three portions were arranged for Tuesday at 14.00.
A tray of what we took to be Bubble Tea was distributed among the diners. Gelatinous and Sweet, not my thing, like drinking frog spawn. Marg was surprised I finished it.
The Bill
Zl86 (£16.53) I like Polish prices.
The Aftermath
As Mein Host was not present last time, a Calling Card and introduction felt appropriate. He was honoured to have us, so we were informed.