A trip to Aberdeen in December, ganz normal. However, this year, a bit earlier, and Marg wants me back in January. So it goes.
In a repeat of our July rendezvous, Graeme and Euan once again joined Marg and Hector for Curry at Rehmat’s Restaurant (249 George St., Aberdeen AB25 1ED Scotland). Arriving at 18.00 we were offered a booth table. Us chaps are a bit too big for that. A table in the open, close to a family group, was the compromise. Six weans, reaching the running about stage of their meal.
Fortunately, Marg spotted their Bill being paid, they were soon away. Six weans, tomorrow’s family gathering will feature eight toddlers, bring it on. A grumpy old man – is how Marg describes me. I used to get paid to tolerate kids, now I’m not. In passing, I’ll drop in that a former pupil is now the Chairman at Ibrox.
Curry, despite the attractive range of Desi Dishes on offer, the Hector was not missing out on the Fish Karahi (£11.95). There are so few venues across the UK that serve Fish Karahi in what I can call – the Bradford style. Note, a Fish Curry at a price matching, or lower than, a Meat Curry, as is the case across mainland Europe, and most unusual in this land.
Marg and Graeme both opted for Punjabi Goshat (£13.50), served – on-the-bone – and the only other Curry the Hector has sampled at these premises. Euan wanted something different, and so Lamb Garlic Bhuna (£11.95) makes a first appearance in these pages.
Three of us would have Mushroom Rice (£4.75) to accompany, Marg stuck to her usual Chapatti (£1.20). Bread prices at Rehmat’s remain sensible, unlike many venues in this city.
Extra Desi – I might as well ask for it. The waitress smiled, who knows what she recorded. Marg was in the process of asking for – not too Spicy – which was interpreted as – mild. She was then persuaded that – medium – should maintain. Curry Houses do not serve blisteringly hot Curry unless one is mad enough to ask for it that way.
A jug of tap water completed the Order. Having relayed the Order, that was it, no sign of any staff, we had the room to ourselves. The wait felt appropriate.
Hot dinner plates were presented, I also noted that the plates on which the food was served were also heated. Crucial in December, and this follows on from comments made in recent outings in Glasgow.
The Mushroom Rice, three plates of, was served in a sensible quantity. Fresh Mushrooms, enough to make the Mains more – Interesting. The Wholemeal Chapatti, presented whole, was as Marg like them.
Fish Karahi
Topped with Ginger Strips and a modest sprinkling of Coriander, the Masala was Thick, Minimal, classic Punjabi Karahi. The only trace of Oil would be found at the base of the handi. There was a sufficiency of White Fish which had retained its integrity. However, the Hector would soon flake this to transform the Curry into something more similar to that served at Bradford’s Kashmir Restaurant.
The Texture of the Fish was spot on, no rubbery nonsense here. The Spice Level was well pitched, enough to make its presence known, never a challenge. No Green Chillies added. That this was a Fish Curry was not in doubt, too often I have to report otherwise. The Seasoning could have been braver. More would have put this Curry into the stratosphere, today, I settled for the troposphere. A damn fine Fish Karahi, every morsel of Curry and Rice was consumed.
Punjabi Goshat
Identical Toppings, spot the Sucky Bone. The Masala looked wonderful, again Thick and not excessive. A Soupçon of Lamb crossed the table. Tender Meat, but without the Masala, dry. Come on, Hector, Dry Curry is what these pages celebrate.
Both recipients were well pleased with their choice. Graeme:
The Curry was exceptionally good. A blend of spice and well cooked lamb along with the excellent Mushroom Rice. Marg:
Thoroughly enjoyed the tender meat on the bone. A rich and tasty sauce with some oil and masala sauce. Used the Roti bread to pick up the meat. Was disappointed when it was finished.
I know that feeling only too well.
Lamb Garlic Bhuna
With the full handi and no Bones, there could well have been even more eating here. As I got to taste neither, I cannot comment on any difference between the Masala here and above. Still, with the quantity of solids protruding, the ratio Meat to Masala appeared to be fitting for a – Bhuna. Meat & Mushroom Vindaloo – Hector’s #1 Curry in the 1970s. Euan’s combination today was not far away from this.
I was not sure what to select, given a previous visit and could not remember my choice. Luckily mein host reminded and I selected his recommendation. The Curry was succulent and tasteful. The Mushroom Rice complimented the dish. Yes, will be back. Great company and food.
Four happy diners, four empty plates.
*
Despite the availability of Dessert from the front of house, Marg resisted.
The Bill
£66.65 Where else in Aberdoom can four dine for this?
The Aftermath
As we made our way through the Ice Cream shop, I assured the young chap – Rehmat’s, still the best in Aberdeen.
… for those who have an appreciation of authentic Punjabi Cuisine.
Heading back towards Union Street, behold the Seed! Tonight, not the telltale Cumin Seed stuck in the teeth, but another variety. Fenugreek was my guess.