Two nights in Bamberg, one Curry opperchancity. There is a potentially interesting, and so far unexplored, Curry House in Ebermannstadt, up a branch-line from Forchheim. However, as in last time here in November when its existence was first noted, seemingly not open today. Curry House (Helmstrasse 11, 91054, Erlangen, Bayern Deutschland) once more became the optimum choice, Bamberg Curry Houses simply are what they are.
Arriving at 13.30, Mein Host was in his spot behind the counter. The customary warm greeting and smile followed. Marg reckoned she had never been here before, a well known and reliable Curry Blog proved otherwise. It can also be confirmed that prices have not increased this year.
On the train down, I considered my options. Having sampled a broad spectrum of what is available at Curry House, one Curry has appeared oft, but eaten by others. Today felt like a good day for Mutton Madras (€14.90). Mein Host has come to know what I like over the years, whilst Mutton Madras was mentioned, his reply of – Mutton – suggested he had something else up his sleeve. Marg opted for Sabji Curry (€10.90). A litre bottle of Lemonade (€4.75) completed the Order. Once paid for, our food would be brought to the table, as and when.
The Bill
€30.55 (£26.61)
As I paid, so I noted Mutton Makhanwala. Was this just a convenient till entry, or a declaration?
At the table, the Mittagskarte did not convince me that saving a couple of Euros was a better deal. The main menu has much more interesting options. 
Something new: a Complimentary Treat. By scanning the QR code and tagging Curry House, one qualifies. Having scanned the QR code, I was led to a social medium I am not subscribed to. Fear not, Mein Host arrived at the table with Pani Puri.
Here was the opperchancity to introduce Marg. Since she was last here, I have established that Mein Host still plays Hockey at a high level, as of course does my Dear Lady. And so the Hector took a back seat, Curry, for once was not the focal point of discussion.
A strange day.
Pani Puri
Two Balls, two Dips. I have had this a few times, always on a Complimentary basis. A family at Lahore Kebab Haus (Frankfurt am Main) actually ordered these on Thursday.
Today, Tamarind and a Vinegar-like Dip. Refreshing as they may be, still I cannot believe people pay for these.
The wait for the main courses felt appropriate.
Mutton Makhanwala
Having seen the Mutton Madras here, I could tell this was something more.
Rice on the side, is the standard presentation, more than enough for the Hector. The token piece of Poppadom usually ends up being used as a shovel. Ginger Strips and a sprinkling of Coriander were not the only Toppings. I’ll ignore the – Red – and highlight the pieces of shaved Coconut. Something different.
Ten pieces of Meat sat in a decent looking, viscous, blended, Mainstream Masala which boasted a hint of Cream. Makhan-i, the clue was in the name, but any Dairy in here was not overdone. Just a threat.
Curry at Erlangen’s Curry House is always going to be well Seasoned, check the earliest visits where the Salt content was actually challenged. Hector asking for the Salt content to be reined in, Unglaublich! With a Moderate Spice Level, this Curry proved to be all about the Flavour. Whilst chewing the variable Meat, the Flavours were bursting out. Onion Seeds in the Masala were the only – Desi – credential. Whilst the classic Euro-Curry Taste was at the root, there was much more happening here. Biting into the firm Coconut, then chewing, added a different dimension.
Apart from a few grains of Rice, the plate was cleared. This could well have been the best Curry I have had on these premises.
Sabji Curry
Again, Rice on the side and Toppings of Ginger Strips and Coriander, the Masala here was decidedly a – Shorva. What an array of Vegetables. I had Marg announce each as she made her way through the melange: Potatoes, of course, Carrots, Peas, Capsicum, boo, and in multiple colours, Broccoli, Cauliflower and even Khadu. 
Marg:
A complimentary dish arrived and I enjoyed the crunchy shell and juices inside.
My main dish was Vegetable Curry and it was presented on a rectangular plate with the boiled Rice on one half and the Curry on the other. I managed to taste all the different vegetables. The overall flavour was very pleasing and moreish. I enjoyed the crunchiness of the peppers as well as the fresh ginger strips, which added a new burst of flavour. Mixing the thin sauce with the Rice allowed me to finish the whole dish. A perfect meal for the day.
Marg cleared her plate.
The Aftermath
Normally, post Curry, the photo features Mein Host with Hector after a discussion on Curry matters. Today, something different. Marg:
After eating, our host came over to speak to us. He is an ex-international hockey player, like myself, and is now playing Masters Hockey for the German Over 70’s. I am sure I will see him again on a hockey pitch, somewhere in the world.