Lasagne for eight, that was Marg’s request for dinner this evening – oh, and it’s for the girls round at the Wendy House. One cannot remove a portion, Hector needed fed, there was only one thing for it: Curry-Heute.
Somehow three months and one day have passed since Hector’s last visit to Karahi Palace (51 – 53 Nelson Street, Tradeston, Glasgow, G5 8DZ), 2018 could not end without a Karahi Gosht. Today was Visit #98, already a Curryspondent is looking forward to #100. Somehow I think that will be a smaller affair than Yadgar #100.
Two different Chefs were at the preparation area, I acknowledged them as I took my preferred seat at the table beside the refrigerator. A new chap, front of house, was clearing this and another table. There was something different, Karahi Palace looked brighter.
Qaiser appeared from the mysterious room under the stairs and came out to take my Order. Qaiser acknowledged that it is months since I was here last:
I’ve seen your posts, you have been travelling.
This I confirmed and rhymed off some cities. I reminded Qaiser that my Karahi Gosht (£7.90) should have extra Methi and Seasoning. A Single Chapatti (£0.70) as always would be a sufficient accompaniment.
It was only after the Order was taken that I spotted Chef Rashid, all was well, Quality Curry was guaranteed. One of the two ladies on duty brought a jug of water, so no Modest Salad today.
Two chaps took the adjacent table. They ordered a Daal to share with two Naans, a fine example of economical eating.
Karahi Gosht
A – Hyper-Hot – Karahi Gosht was presented. The Toppings today were Ginger Strips, Fresh Coriander and Sliced Green Chillies, perfect. I constantly praise the venues which serve a – Dry Curry – today’s redefined the term. Minimal Masala, there was virtually none, just enough. As a result there was no oil residue on the edge of the karahi.
I tore a strip off the hot Chapatti and dug deep into the karahi. At the base was some burnt Herb, Methi. I recognised the Flavour instantly, Bradford Curry. For years I tried to work out what made Bradford Curry so distinctive. Methi was the conclusion, toasted/burnt Methi may well be the final piece of the jigsaw.
Thereafter, the Flavours of the Karahi Palace dominated, this was a Magical Curry. The Meat was simply beautiful, Bones were but a few. The Chillies did their job, the Spice Level went through the roof at times. I ate so slowly, savouring every mouthful.
Hector has had a lot of Curry in the last three months, some has been outstanding, this was – Simply The Best.
The Bill
£8.60 I must come and do the half-kilo.
The Aftermath
There’s something different about the place – I said to Qaiser.
New floor – was his reply.
How long has it been down? – I asked.
Three months.