Glasgow – New Cafe Reeshah – Today, We are Three

As the news spreads of the wonder that is the Lamb Lahori Karahi (£13.00 – large), served – on-the-bone – at New Cafe Reeshah (455 Shields Road, Pollokshields, Glasgow G41 1NP) so – The Friends of Hector – are expressing their interest. Howard sneaked across the river for some of the above, last week. On hearing this, Stewart announced his decision to join Hector this very day. A call was made yesterday to book two large portions, just in case.

With no hockey balls needing struck today, Marg accompanied. We arrived moments after the 14.30 rendezvous as Stewart appeared from the opposite direction. Arshad was in his spot, ready to greet.

We are three today, next time – ten.

Arshad made it clear that he is happy that I keep coming back.

Marg took the corner seat, Arshad brought her attention to the fan heater on the floor.

We had heat!

Marg, who was not having Curry-Heute – maybe a Starter – spotted what she thought was Lamb Keema. This was actually a Daal, however, Aloo Keema (£7.00 / £9.00) was on display, sorted. For the purposes of Curry-Heute, a good choice. The list of Dishes covered here is expanded, whilst it is worth noting that the Aloo Keema formerly served at Cafe Reeshah, i.e. the original business, was outstanding. No pressure.

A Chapatti (£1.00) for Marg, and two Tandoori Nan (£1.50) completed the food Order. As I fetched gasses of water, so Stewart asked for a Can.

Arshad suggested they prepare the two portions of Karahi together.

Can I put the two Lamb in one, to make it better?

Make it better – was the obvious reply. How? – I wondered.

Arshad held aloft a ready portion of Nihari Lahori Style (£10.00).

One day – I assured him. Today, no car, so no point in buying Takeaway.

Before the food was brought, Salad was suggested. Normally, Marg would have been straight in there, again, not today.

Spicy Sauce – was also mooted. To not keep disappointing Mein Host, I agreed to this, however, other distractions meant this never materialised.

New Cafe Reeshah may only have the two tables, but they are well set up. Crockery plates, metal cutlery, a cut above some other Curry Cafes in Pollokshields. However it does take a minute or two for them to get things sorted.

The Tandoori Nan, tried and tested, whilst not in Hector’s preferred classic style, still, risen, puffy, quality Naan. Ditto, for the Chapatti.

Lamb Lahori Karahi

The presentation of the large karahi was a wondrous moment. How long have they had this tucked away? Two large portions, near enough the kilo, and remember the price. The abundant Meat, topped with Ginger Strips, protruded from the rich Masala.

No Coriander? – asked Stewart.

This was duly relayed to Arshad, who promptly left the premises.

The Masala looked wonderful, the threat of something creamy, intrigued.

Big pieces of Meat, correspondingly big bones, yet lots of eating.

Stewart tore in eating at a pace the Hector can no longer match.

The Spice Level kept building, the Seasoning was a la Hector. The distinctive Flavour of Cloves which I missed from the Masala at Green Gates earlier this week was present. A Lahori Karahi. The Meat, Tender-Firm was moist to the heart of every piece, ah the Flavours, Desi Curry.

A bowl of Coriander was brought to the table. Freshly purchased, how was this for service?

With the key ingredient of the – foliage – now added, it was a game of two halves.

The first half was already – wow! – with Stewart remarking on the richness of Flavour. With the added Herb, so another level was reached – wow plus?

Five chaps entered, resplendent in big boots and high viz clothing. They were here for Burgers, Kebap, Chips & Cheese. This did not stop one chap’s jaw drop when he saw our Karahi. They tucked into their fayre, sitting at the adjacent table. Eight simultaneous peeps – dining in – at New Cafe Reeshah. In time, the curious one asked what we were having. Now he knows.

Meanwhile, Hector had had his Bread quota and was inviting Stewart to clear up. With his plate wiped clean, Stewart took care of the remnants in the karahi, nothing wasted. Stewart:

Different in taste to other local offerings, but with real depth of flavour and a pleasant, lingering heat. Very moreish and had no qualms about getting hands dirty to tuck in.

Aloo Keema

Chicken Mince, finely chopped Onion, and plenty of Potato pieces, without needless Masala, and not a trace of Oil, this was a classic Desi – Aloo Keema. A Soupçon came Hector’s way. Given that I was eating one of the two best Curry-finds in Glasgow this year, it wasn’t going to compete. Still, there was Flavour here, but not at the – wow – level. Marg:

Chicken Mince with plenty potatoes. Full of flavour with a spicy kick. A good helping which complimented the Chapatti. Did not manage to finish the bread. Half way through, arrived a dish of freshly chopped coriander. This added a lovely blast of coriander to the meal.

The Bill

£34.00   A nominal sum?

The Aftermath

I advised Arshad that this was visit #5, New Cafe Reeshah shall no longer appear in Curry-Heute as being in the Southside, but is promoted to Glasgow’s Top Rated and Hector’s Recommended Curry Houses.

Much later, the customary Cumin Seed became dislodged. Desi, Man!