Lamb two days in a row, it happens. If only Glasgow had a Curry House where the Fish Curry/Karahi was served as a full portion and truly hit the spot. I had originally considered that my next visit to Chimes of India (914-916 Sauchiehall Street, Finnieston, Glasgow G3 7 TF) would feature Aloo Gobi aka Cauliflower Potato Greens (£8.50) and Daal Makhani (£8.50). However, it’s two months since I last had their signature – Desi Lamb (£12.95) on-the-bone, accompanied by Rice – Mushrooms (£3.95).
Arriving at 13.30, there was no sign of Vini, Mein Host, nor would any Chef make an appearance. With a solo diner occupying the table adjacent to my usual corner, I chose the small table nearest the doorway. The next couple to arrive, were sat in his proximity, cosy. Chips, Spike aside, who orders Curry & Chips? With Takeaway customers arriving too, this was the busiest I have seen Chimes of India at lunchtime. The waitress switched on the heater at my feet, cosy indeed.
The Order placed, with a jug of tap water requested too, I settled down for the wait, a full thirty minutes, not a rushed job then, proper cooking.
A couple, of Iberian heritage, entered with a wean in pram and babe in arms. Here we go, again, and tomorrow is Groundhog Day. After a lengthy discussion re complex dietary requirements, the Hector was relieved to establish that they were ordering Takeaway. Better still, they left the premises for the promised twenty minutes. Monday’s aural assault was not to be repeated.
The Mushroom Rice was served in a cold karahi. I quickly tipped the thankfully hot contents onto my plate. A cold plate. I would love to know where Chimes source their Mushrooms, they never fail to impress. I could happily have eaten this without Curry on top.
My water hadn’t arrived. A quick reminder paid dividends. I was permitted – a glassful.
Desi Lamb
The Masala was surely darker than anything served here previously? Tomato Seeds were visible in the rich, thick Masala, Coriander strewn through also. If one is having – Curry – as opposed to – Karahi – then this is how I want my Masala. Whole Spices should feature in a Desi Curry, two Green Cardamom were unearthed in the Masala.
The Meat count was one less than double figures, the majority, large pieces, served on-the-bone. No – Sucky Bones – was my first reaction, an observation that was soon rectified. The bones might not have been from the – leg – with marrow oozing, but solid marrowbone aplenty was revealed as I ate.
The Spice Level was well pitched, enough to know that this was Curry, unlike last night’s meal at home. The Seasoning was certainly in the – brave – category. Any more Seasoning would have been unpleasant, this was maxed out.
The Tenderest of Lamb had been cooked to perfection. A deep, almost burnt Tomato Flavour came through, a bottom of the pot intensity.
The appetite was sated, the cold dinner plate took its toll, eating every morsel would take me beyond the threshold of pleasure. Time to draw a line on the plate, I would leave more than I ought.
The Bill
£16.85
The Aftermath
I left.