Having enjoyed a run of excellent Curry outings in Glasgow in the last few weeks, why let the level of expectation drop? Another visit to New Cafe Reeshah (455 Shields Road, Pollokshields, Glasgow G41 1NP) felt overdue. Two months, where does the time go?
Three ladies occupied the larger of the two tables as I entered Cafe Reeshah at 13.40. I claimed my usual spot. Arshad greeted, then brother Amjad also appeared behind the counter. They know I keep giving them wonderful reviews, hopefully the word is spreading across the city that something special is happening here. Not only is their food excellent, the value may be the most competitive in the city for Desi Curry. DumPukht Lahori had held that accolade, no more, as was established midweek.
I glanced at the Curry on display, the reason for my being here was the Lamb Karahi (£11.00), served on-the-bone. The container was full, all was well. Beside it was what I took to be an interesting looking Aloo Gobi, more on that below.
A small Naan (£2.50) – I put to Arshad. This was repeated to Amjad. I cannot get anywhere near finishing the Naan served here, last time we agreed that that – a half – could be served. Having helped myself to the tap water on the counter, I settled down for the short wait. Salad and Sauce were declined, no mention of a Coriander Topping today.
The three ladies were having an extended conversation having finished their sit-in meal.. Unknown to me, they were now waiting for a substantial Takeaway. Someone has to buy Haleem (£7.00 / £9.00).
The wait was remarkably short, as long as it took the cook the Naan. I would like to know the method of reheating the Curry portion, stove I assume.
The – small – Naan was surprisingly close to, if not the same size as their standard. Wastage guaranteed.
Whole, risen, puffy, with blisters forming, as the Hector likes it. Soft, used for mopping up the Masala, eaten until the body sends the signal – no more Bread.
How do people eat multiple Naan?
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Lamb Karahi
Yes, technically I had the same meal three days ago at DumPukht Lahori, but such are the interpretations, this would be a completely different experience altogether … this would a completely different eating experience.
Here the Ginger Strips had been cooked in. With peripheral Oil, the Masala was closer to what I expect a Karahi to look like. Way fewer Bones than Wednesday’s at DumPukht, and of course, the Sucky Bones were here too.
The Masala oozed quality, Tomato-based. This time the Seasoning registered before the Spice, as the distinctive Cafe Reeshah House Flavours emerged. Rich, satisfying, consistent, and that was just the Masala.
The Tenderest of Lamb, and having sat in the Masala, Flavours had been absorbed ready to be given back. Each time I have Curry in these modest premises I remind myself why I am reluctant to visit the Pukka Restaurants of The Merchant City, where one would pay more than double to find anything close to this, if at all.
Amjad checked on my progress, from behind the counter initially – enjoying?
Spring Lamb had been used in the preparation of this Karahi Gosht. Amjad outlined his appreciation that this makes the outcome even more special. He then came out for a chat, proper.
He offered to cook Peshwari Karahi with advance notice. Fearful that I might prefer what sat before me, I asked if he cooked Namkeen Karahi.
Arshad smiled from his spot behind the counter.
He knows the terms.
Indeed, Amjad’s Peshwari and Hector’s Namkeen are the same Curry.
Amjad explained that it must be eaten as soon as it’s ready, the Salt & Pepper Karahi cannot be stored. Given that he would have to prepare a kilo, at least, I think I know one or two who may well offer to accompany.
Associated with this, I thought I would further explore the limited use of the term – Karrah. As a Punjabi, he doesn’t use it. So I’ll stick to Cumin and Turmeric instead of Jeera and Haldi.
The Bill
£12.50
The Aftermath
Conversation with Arshad was getting underway when a taxi driver entered. His Punjabi was better than mine. So it goes.
And the Aloo Gobi (bottom right)? I saw a hefty bone then a Chicken bone and remained puzzled. I then concluded that the lumps had to be Chicken. Well, my focus was on the adjacent container. The Masala, however was something else. If/when I see this again, temptation may prevail.