Trieste – Krishna Ristorante Indiano – Visit #1

Posted on July 5, 2018 by Hector

As we work our way clockwise around the apex of the Adriatic, so Marg and Hector are currently spending a few days in Trieste, the final anticipated Curry Source on this Trip until we fly back to Manchester. A few venues popped up on Google Maps, Theo, Mein Host at Hops Beerstrò last night, warned us off one. He highly recommended Krishna Ristorante Indiano (Via Guido Brunner, 5A, 34125 Trieste TS Italia). Masala (Via Nordio Aurelio e Fabio, 20, 34125 Trieste TS Italia) he was not aware of.

Marg was – permitted – Coffee and Croissant as we headed north east from our Quirky Hotel – Portacavana. We passed Masala, finding it closed until the middle of the month. Krishna was nearby, surrounded by ongoing roadworks. So it goes.

We arrived bang on 13.00, Mein Host showed us through to the rear room where two separate couples were sat, one wean each. We wondered why we were all squeezed in here, Marg worked it out – Aircon.

The Menu was provided, lots of photos of Set Meals at what appeared to be terrific value. Mein Host offered to translate the names for us to English, I assured him I could cope with the Punjabi.

I saw a Mixed Platter of Starters arrive at the table to my right, who could eat a Main Course after all that? Fish Curry (€7.00), what was the catch? OK the Portion could be small, but this is half of what one normally pays. Taking no chances, I decided upon the Fish Curry – Pesce salmone in salsa curry – accompanied by Aloo Gobi (€5.00) with Jeera Pulao (€4.00).

Marg would have Vegetable Pakora (€3.00), Chicken Pakora was also available.

Sparkling Water comes in 750ml Bottles at a mere €2.00. In the end we had two. I cannot help but think back to this time last year in Mykonos where Sparkling Water was €15.00 a litre.

Mein Host said the Fish Curry could be prepared any way I liked, e.g. with Spinach. We agreed on – Dry – after I suggested – Minimal Masala. I should have enquired about Methi.

Despite having asked for all the food to be brought simultaneously, the Pakora and three Dips were brought by a Young Chap. He talked us through the Dips, the ubiquitous Tamarind was there: ubiquitous on Mainland Europe, not in the UK, why?

Four decent sized pieces of well fired Pakora sat before Marg. She ate two hoping my food was imminent, then finished all four. The Pakora had evidently been reheated given the slightly Burnt exterior, this added to the taste.

Very dry, aren’t they? – said Marg.

I could not comment, a Soupçon came my way. Indeed, but full of Flavour, and the Dips were there for a purpose.

Mein Host came through to say the Curry would arrive soon. I asked if he had – Methi/Fenugreek. The reply was somewhat blank. Fresh Coriander? This, we were told, is supplied on Fridays. Today is Thursday, they have run out.

The Young Waiter brought the Mains, the Karahi were small, but then I have seen these often enough. My lunch today cost €16.00, with three constituents. Meanwhile, look at this:

I paid €15.00 for this Ravioli in Trieste yesterday – outrage!

Decanting the Rice, I still had plenty left, Marg was not interested. As I transferred the Fish and Masala so I unearthed some pieces of Red Capsicum, I should have said at the time of ordering … these were easily avoided, or so I thought. I bargained on Marg at least having some of the Aloo Gobi, the appearance was slightly off-putting in this light, not the most aesthetically pleasing Cauliflower and Potato ever presented. The Masala was delightfully Thick and Minimal, however, this Aloo Gobi looked overcooked, a Mush.

Fish Curry

I could smell the Aroma from the Fish, it was that strong, enticing. Flaked Almonds were the Topping, I wonder if it would have been Fresh Coriander on another day? I knew already that this was going to be a Curry fit for a Hector, the first mouthful brought forth positive noises. This had it – Spice – Seasoning – Flavour. I didn’t count the Fish, I know how filling Salmon is. Each piece of Fish was then broken up, there was plenty. I found more Capsicum and set it aside, then some more, I had eight pieces in all – Ballast!

Aloo Gobi

Now that I see the illuminated photo of the Aloo Gobi, I wonder why my first impressions were negative.  Behold the Thick Masala, with Oil collecting on the periphery.  QED. There were easily more solids in the Potato and Cauliflower than the Fish counterpart. Again I was instantly impressed by the Flavours, this was Excellent, slightly Spicier too. The temptation to mix this with the Fish Curry  was overcome. Enjoy the Fish Curry, enjoy the Aloo Gobi… The Potatoes were Soft, properly cooked, and gave off so much Earthy Flavour. The Cauliflower was overcooked, but far from the Mush I was expecting when I first saw it. India came to mind, this was truly authentic. It must have been prepared earlier then reheated as is the norm in the Curry Cafes in the UK. The amount of Flavour in this Aloo Gobi was astonishing.

Back to the Fish Curry, back to the Aloo Gobi, oh and the Cumin Seeds in the Rice were Black, one deduces these had been toasted. Marg was happy because Hector was happy. This was a very happy Curry experience.

The Young Waiter came to check on our progress. He was puzzled as to Marg’s dirty plate but no sign of food. I congratulated him on the Quality of the Curry then pointed to my pile of debris:

Capsicum has no place in Curry, next time I shall ask for it to be withheld.

Next time? We are in Trieste for five nights.

The Bill

€26.50 (£23.45) This was rounded down to €26.00, and did include a Cover Charge.

The Aftermath

The Website was shown,  Our Waiter has not had Curry in Brescia, I shall continue to plug the Bombay Tandoory.  Such had been the level of banter as we exchanged Cards, there had to be a photo, Mein Host was summoned. It looks as though we are going back on Sunday.

Menu – extracts

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Venezia – Ristorante Indiano Bombay Spice – Adriatic Curry #1

Posted on July 3, 2018 by Hector

Pula (Croatia) is the end destination on this vacation, no Curry reported there, yet. Meanwhile, Hector and Marg have left the Greek Islands and have flown to Venezia, our third visit here. There had to be Curry-Heute, Sources suggest that the only Curry House on the Lagoon is a no-go venue. Three venues popped up on Google Maps in Mestre – Mainland Venice, two would not open until evening which is not in keeping with the plan. I cannot ask Marg to have Curry for dinner every other day, lunch I get away with. This left Ristorante Indiano Bombay Spice (Via Forte Marghera, 129, 30173 Mestre, Venezia VE Italia) as the only Opperchancity. However, the Best Curry I have ever had in Italia is only187km away in Brescia at Bombay Tandoori,  just under two hours by train.

We took the Tram across to Mestre which dropped us moments away from Bombay Spice. The Restaurant is easily found adjacent to the Canal which is cut into the Mainland. Arriving @12.30, we were the first diners of the shift and were shown to the far room beyond the bar area.

Having not eaten much since my last Curry at Platanias (Crete), Hector was hungry. My Fish Bhuna at Krisna – Authentic Indian Restaurant was truly Outstanding, I looked at the Fish Curry on offer at Bombay Spice... Swordfish? Prawns? None of the descriptions had me convinced, back to Lamb.

Hector has had so little Lamb, comparatively, in the last month. In the USA this was not by choice, in the last week in Hellas I could not face Quantities of Meat, no Kleftico for Hector. I was pleased to see the Menu at Bombay Spice had the Lamb Classics, including Keema. Bhuna Gosht (€10.00) avoided the – dreaded Green Mush. Also, I was not risking the Karahi turning out to be – Stir Fry. To accompany the Bhuna, I would risk a Zeera Paratha (€2.00). I liked the price, I have also eaten very little Bread lately. Cumin seeds, me like.

Marg as ever would snack, Keema Samosa (€4.00) her usual choice.  Sparkling Water was not obvious on the Menu, so a 750ml Bottle of Still Water (€2.00) it would be. The Chap came over to take the Order. As I reopened the Menu I glanced through the Sabzi – Vegetable – Dishes. Daal Makhani (€5.00) – this is too often charged at the same price as a Meat Main Course. The Mediterranean Diet has aggravated an ongoing condition since my return from USA, this should hopefully restore – Kosmos.

I delivered the Order to the Waiter with perfect Curry Clarity.

Where are you from, Sir? – he asked.

The reply brought a smile. One suspects he knew this Order was a Perfect Balance of styles. We asked that all the food be brought simultaneously. He took this literally it appears. He came to ask where Scotland was, and did we use Euros or Sterling. He departed, content.

Another diner entered, he must have been a very naughty boy because he was shown to the small table in the corner. From my vantage point I could see all. He was presented with a Poppadom and Dips, we had nothing. Maybe he was not so naughty after all. The Background Musik was Piano, Jarrett-esque at times. I could have summoned Soundhound, but the last thing I needed to do was open another App on my rapidly failing LG.  He had Chicken Korma.

Two cone-shaped Poppadoms with embedded Cumin Seeds and three Dips were brought to the table with the assurance that our food was arriving imminently. I only had time to dip the smallest piece of Poppadom into the Tamarind when the Curry arrived. Marg would take care of the Complimentary Starter.

*

Two small Samosas sat on a bed of tired looking Red Cabbage, Marg was not for trying the Ballast, her pleasure was forthcoming. Marg offered her half eaten Samosa for photographic purposes. The compactness of the Finely Ground Mince with Peas was very much to her liking. The Samosas were taken care of, the Poppadoms and Dips, then Marg took a good sample of the Daal Makhani. Didn’t she do well?

The Zeera Paratha was served Quartered, never a good start. It is difficult to judge the precise size when Bread comes in bits. For €2.00, this was OK. The Cumin Seeds were visible in the Layered but tending towards Crispy, yet somehow Limp, Paratha. The Bread was a disappointment.

Bhuna Gosht

Normally I would have eaten straight from the karahi but with two courses at once, I had to decant. The next few minutes were somewhat confusing. The Bhuna Gosht looked to be OK when it arrived, not Soupy, a not too Excessive Masala. When I spooned the majority to the plate, the thinnest of runny Shorva ran out of the mass. This looked terrible, very off-putting. I dipped some Bread, Cloves. At least there was Flavour. The Spice Level felt non-existent, I could not get a grip on the Seasoning. Daal Makhani

Presented in a Bucket, the Daal Makhani had a Rich Tomato-coloured Masala. The Dark Lentils stood out, this looked like a Worthy Daal. There was a Strong, Earthy Flavour. The Consistency was Perfect, this was as good a Daal as I have ever experienced. I was pleased to have spotted it.

Back to the BhunaThe Masala which was left in the karahi looked better than what I had on my plate, I could see Tomato pieces cooked in, it was thick with Onion too. The Onion had not been cooked down to a Mash, nor had the Masala been blended. Ginger was coming on to the palate.

The Meat was in double figures, though the sizes of the bits varied considerably. The Meat, possibly frozen Lamb, required a lot of chewing. I could taste the – Lamb – but this only highlighted the lack of Spice and other Flavours coming from the Meat. The Bhuna Gosht had a – Two Chilli – rating, where was the Spice? I was still quite ambivalent towards this Curry, but the second half was a marked improvement on the first. With the Daal Makhani out of the picture, the palate found more happening, Tomato was next to emerge. I was warming to this Bhuna Gosht. Perhaps Bread was the wrong accompaniment, a Vegetable Rice may have been better. I had ordered the Daal, it therefore had to be Bread. At the end I felt quite replete, this Bhuna Gosht had done enough, just.

I gestured to the empty plates when the Waiter cleared the table, there was not a morsel left.

The Bill

€27.00 (£23.89) This included a €4.00 Cover Charge. So the Poppadoms were in effect not free.

The Aftermath

Having paid, I took my Calling Card and dreadfully slow LG up to the counter. The expression – hundreds of restaurants – appeared to go down well. Well, it’s not an exaggeration.

Columbia 1 v 1 England

Who’s been practicing penalties then?

Even Hector could not support the antics of the South Americans. Sverige should surely defeat the Auld Enemy by means – Honourable?

Menu – extracts

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Platanias (Crete) – Krisna – Authentic Indian Restaurant – The Return Visit

Posted on June 29, 2018 by Hector

This time last year Hector spent a week in Greece/Hellas on his lonesome, Marg decided that Vet’s Hockey in Dublin would take preference. This gave me the opperchancity to have Curry in Crete and Santorini before Marg caught up with the vacation. Of the four venues visited last year, Krisna – Authentic Indian Restaurant (PEO Kissamou Chanion 102, Platanias 730 14 Crete) was the standout. Who is already thinking that Hector is back in Crete just for the Curry?

Italia and Croatia are our subsequent destinations with no Curry available in Northern Croatia it appears. Watch this Blog. Prior to this, Hector is taking Marg to the places of interest in north-west Crete that she missed last year. This involved the short Bus journey from Chania, where are spending two nights only, along the coast to Platanias. As with last year, Curry was preceded by the steep climb up to the World War 2 Museum and Restaurant Vigli, the latter delivering much needed cold drinks, ice cream and the finest view over the coastline and the island of Agio Theodoroi.

It was approaching 19.00 when we reached Krisna. 19.00, kick-off time for the World Cup matches, but there are no games today. There were appreciably more customers than when I visited last year, Friday Night is Curry Night. The Lady on duty showed us to the table next to where I sat last time. Mein Host showed no sign of recognition, he and his son spent quite some time discussing Curry and supplies last year. I later established that this was – Daughter.

I had ordered – Lamb – last year before I realised – Fish – was also available. If more Menus were laid out in this style, the Diner would not have to wade through endless pages of repetition to find the desired Curry with the Meat of choice. So, who is now thinking that Hector came all the way back to Crete for a  Fish Curry?

 Mein Host came over to talk us through the Menu. Some Dishes have up to a – Five Chilli – rating, I think he was informing us that all Dishes could be prepared to to any strength, but was warning us.

You have Fresh Coriander? – I put to him in memory of last year.

This was confirmed – and Fresh Methi-Fenugreek?

This was a good time to remind Mein Host of my previous visit, Hector was remembered. On showing the review on the very slow LG, he reminded me that it was his son – Stephen – who had been present also. Stephen and Hector remained in contact last year as I tried to help them acquire cooking equipment from UK suppliers.

Knowing the Portion Size already, I advised Marg that we would share Egg Fried Rice (€4.50). Lamb Roghan Josh (€11.50) was Marg’s choice of Main. Starters were not considered, the Ice Cream.

The Fish Bhuna (€12.00) has a – Two Chilli – rating, as has the Roghan Josh. Hopefully – Bhuna – would guarantee the Thickness of Masala I enjoyed last year when I had a very tweaked Lamb Sambar (€11.50), – Three Chillies.

Marg would have Sparkling Water (250ml) (€2.50) whilst Hector, remembering that here Water is more expensive than Bier in real terms, went for Bottled Mythos (500ml) (€3.50).

It was Daughter who took the Order. She raised her eyebrows when I asked for – Fish. On mentioning Coriander and Methi she informed me they had them both as Fresh and Powdered. The Herbs win every time. I made my usual request that no – Peppers – would appear in my food. Marg asked for – Medium Spice – Hector asked for – Two Chillies.

We could see Chef when he was finishing off the Rice for other Orders. Why can Hector not use a Wok with such efficiency? Nothing sticking here.

Mein Host brought the food; the photographic ritual was interrupted by a Scandinavian Chap at the adjacent table offering to take a photo of Marg and Hector, offer declined. Marg had left me more than enough Egg Fried Rice, a decent Portion for two, insane for one. With Peas and Sweetcorn, this would add the required Diversity, way better than simply Meat and Masala.

Lamb Roghan Josh

The Masala was relatively Thin, Oily, Blended, similar to what could be served on any Mainstream – High Street Curry House in the UK. I liked the Orange Sheen, not quite a – Soupy Curry – given the Quantity of Masala.

Unlike Hector, Marg’s appetite was not in doubt today, she wolfed down the lot before I was halfway through, bar some of the perhaps Excessive Masala. Not a grain of Rice remained, all of the Meat was eaten. Ice Cream before Curry is OK then.

I like that it has small pieces of Meat, and plenty of it – she began, – an abundance of sauce, earthy, goes well with the Rice.

One satisfied customer.

*

*

Fish Bhuna

As soon as this was presented, the level of anticipation increased further. A mass of Fish was smothered in a Viscous Masala, the Finely Chopped Herb Topping completed this Perfect Vision of Curry. There was time to savour the moment.

This has got everything – I remarked to Marg after the first sample. I knew I had to come back to Platanias – for Curry. This was one of those – Very Special Moments. It took three weeks in the USA to find Curry of this Quality, this was Day 4 in Hellas. Curry in Greece can be as good as – The Best – served anywhere. This year I shall probably not make it to Pak Taka Tak (Athena), and there are more Curry Cafes still in Athens to investigate. Today’s Fish Bhuna is Hector’s Greek Curry of 2018.

The Seasoning was pitched perfectly, the Flavour of the – Masala Fish – was full on. There was a – Raw – Peppery – Flavour initially before the magnificent array of Flavours came across. The Herbs most certainly helped, there is no excuse for not sourcing all the required Ingredients, USA Chefs please note. Just how much Fish was hidden in this Masala? This was easily the most Fish ever served to Hector as a Standard Portion. The full Fish Flavour was prominent on the palate. The Fish retained its integrity, but what was it? I forgot to ask, so Hector Holmes looks back over previous experiences. It most certainly was not Monkfish which tends to be Rubbery and Thin, this was White and Chunky. River Cobbler – Basa – is a likely candidate as last encountered at The Moti Mahal (Glasgow). Some of today’s Fish took a fair amount of chewing, not a criticism, it simply prolonged the pleasure.

The Masala was markedly different from the Roghan Josh, much Thicker. Onion Strips were in the mix. Two Chillies? No problem. With Coriander and Methi presumably added, this Curry had everything.

Mein Host came over dressed to depart.

How is it?

This is Excellent!

He was going along the road a kilometre or so to the east to Agia Marina where has opened new premises – Massala House. Business must be good at Krisna to enable this. If he can replicate the quality then success will follow. I hope Curry-Heute has played its part in spreading the word.

Eventually I had to admit defeat, there was far more than my appetite can presently manage. The Mediterranean Diet has caused the problem which Curry very rarely manifests.

The Bill

€33.20 (£29.38) Once again I thank all those who voted for Brexit for devaluing Sterling.

The Aftermath

It was at this point I confirmed the Lady serving was the Daughter. She had been busy becoming a mother when I was here last time. She was delighted to see the Review I had previously written. All Good Curry should be celebrated.

I had tried to find the other Indian Restaurant on Google Maps and failed. With the name – Massala House – provided, we both found it, but at the wrong locus. It is not to the west of Krisna as Google Maps presently shows. Agia Marina is decidedly to the east.

A complimentary Spirit was on the table when I returned…

We spotted Massala House from the Bus on the way back to Chania, on the beach side of the main road. As ground floor premises, this could be an even more advantageous site.

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Glasgow – Desi Cafe : Desi – Curry Palace – Lunch with Marg & Mother

Posted on June 25, 2018 by Hector

Farewell to Mother-in-law, hello to Mother. I think the last time I saw both on the same day was back in 2013 at some event or other. Desi Cafe (140 Allison St. Glasgow G42 8RP) always goes down well with Mother, this was Marg’s first visit.

Only two other diners were present as we entered Desi Cafe at 13.40. Ahmed, Mein Host, greeted us from behind the counter, he was also manning the adjacent Takeaway. He talked me through the Curry on display. I offered Marg a choice of Aloo Gosht or Keema Mutter.

Mother and I are having the Aloo Gosht on-the-bone.

Three Aloo Gosht then with one Boiled Rice (£1.50) and two Chapattis (£0.60). Having just returned from Aberdoom, I must highlight the price of a Chapatti.

Mein Host was all set to offer me the Menu after he listed the ready Curry. Menu? I must try this, the Desi Karahi will have to sampled. Actually, Desi Karahi is advertised on the door, not the Menu.

A Jug of Water was brought by the young Waiter then three plates. Mother immediately sent hers back – hot plate required. The plates were warm, and on the hottest day of the year so far in Glasgow this year, they would have done.

Today, the Curry was presented in a karahi. We have had this, a china plate and a metal pot in our visits to date.

As anticipated, the Basmati was enough to share, Mother was given half, Marg and Hector shared the remainder. The Chapattis were for us. The Chapattis remained Soft, one each was enough.

The portion of Aloo Gosht was relatively Modest. With two large pieces of Potato, this was enough for Lunch. Having sat in the Shorva, the Lamb had absorbed sufficient Flavour to make this a Worthy Curry. The Spice felt Moderate to begin with, then crept up, Hector’s lips were tingling. The Shorva had sufficient Seasoning, Tasty. This was a very Simple Curry done well.

*

*

The meat just falls off the bone – remarked Marg – I was worried at first that it might have been too spicy for for me, it wasn’t.

Mother just ate her Curry and thoroughly enjoyed it.

The Bill

£18.90 That makes the Aloo Gosht – £5.40.

The Aftermath

Ahmed was not visible as we left. I suspect our visits here are going to become more regular. Marg likes the venue, Mother likes the Curry, Hector likes the prices, and the Curry.

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Aberdeen – Lahore Karahi – A Methi Blast!

Posted on June 23, 2018 by Hector

Hector has been abducted, two nights in Aberdoom before setting off for what may be a relative Curry Desert. In the next few weeks I may find myself in a country where no Curry has previously been reported, a challenge. Should I take my own spices?

Deutschland 2 v1 Sverge

After watching one of the most ridiculous comebacks in the history of Football, Marg and Hector drove to Lahore Karahi (145 King St, Aberdeen, AB24 5AE). A Saturday without Bier, and when Bier-Traveller catches up (aye right) with Curry-Heute, all shall be revealed. On entering we were firstly greeted by a cacophony from a group of three couples sat at the window. One assumes they had – brought their own bottles. The Waiter recognised me, smiled and offered his hand. A warm welcome.

Of the six at the window, it was the three females who were making the noise, screeching at the top of their voices at every opperchancity. The only respite was when two had to go outside to accelerate their departure from this planet. I hope Marg and Hector’s quiet demeanour did not spoil their evening.

When seven of us dined at Lahore Karahi back in April, Hector enjoyed the astonishingly wonderful Fish Karahi (£9.00). This evening I went back to my roots – Methi Gosht – (£8.50). Unbelievably, there has been a limited intake of Lamb in the last few weeks. The guarantee of – Methi – was paramount. The Menu offers a choice of Keema Aloo or Keema Peas (£8.50), Marg went for Keema Peas.

The Paratha at Lahore Karahi could be Legendary: both in terms of Price and Quality. A Plain Paratha (£2.50) for Hector, a Tandoori Roti (£1.20) for Marg. Marg was happy to take the risk of – crisping – over having the – Butter – equivalent. £1.20 for a Roti in Aberdoom, Unglaublich! (For readers in Bradford, this is actually a positive.) The Bread was up to standard. The Roti had Girth and was a decent size, one was enough. The Paratha had Layering, Flaked and had the – Swirl. Perfection.

Keema Peas

The Potato stood out, so – Keema Aloo Mutter – then, better still. This was a mass of Curry. With Ginger Strips and Chopped Green Chillies, plus half a Large Green Chilli, this was a commendable Keema.

A Ginger and Coriander hit – remarked Marg. This was pleasing. The Quantity was going to defeat Marg, some of the Potato came in my direction adding to the diversity of the Methi Gosht, the Best of Both Worlds.

Methi Gosht

Look at the Splendour of this. Large-cut Lamb in a Beautiful Masala with Herbs. As in any Quality Curry, the Quantity of the Masala was appropriate, an excellent – Meat to Masala Ratio. The Methi, how I have missed this throughout the month of June. The Masala was Thick with Herbs. One suspects that Spinach and possibly Mustard Leaves may also have been present. One cannot survive on Methi alone, it is possible to have – too much. Again, half of a large fresh Green Chilli had been put in at the point of serving, an extra – Kick – if required. Marg’s had already crossed the table. Hector had all the Spice required, but not the Seasoning. This Methi Gosht needed much more.

I could taste the Flavour of the Lamb itself which initially was most enjoyable. This raised the question of how long the Meat and the Masala had been in each other’s presence. In my favoured Glasgow Curry Cafes, one sees the Saag Gosht sitting out, plenty of time to absorb the Flavours.

Still, what was not to enjoy here? Hector had his Methi.

As we finished our meals, so the Head Waiter came over to check on our progress, he too remembered Hector. I am a regular here, at least twice a year. Lahore Karahi continues to set the Standard for Curry in Aberdeen…

The Bill

£20.50 … at prices that are realistic.

The Aftermath

The screeching females persisted. Maybe BYOB has its disadvantages – pour les autres.

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Glasgow – Madha North and South Indian Kitchen – Visit #1

Posted on June 22, 2018 by Hector

Somehow I managed to change trains at Partick and still end up at Glasgow Queen St, so no Southside Curry-Heute. The Merchant City was calling, the latest City Centre venue: Madha North and South Indian Kitchen (42 Albion St, Glasgow G1 1LH) became today’s choice of venue. If my research is correct, this Curry House is the brainchild of – Joseph – once of The Dhabba which Hector reviewed, by invitation, last year. They claim to be the first venue in Scotland to serve the Cuisine of both North and South India. Given how extensive the menus are in many Mainstream Curry Houses, this claim might be debatable. However, there is Mainstream and there is Authentic.

Walking through George Square on this fine summer’s afternoon, I passed a locus on Cochrane St. which once housed – Akbar – my favourite Curry House back in the 1970s. Whatever happened to these Chaps? Their Curry had a Flavour I have never encountered elsewhere.

I arrived at Madha @14.30, a few people sat in the window area, no staff member was seen. I walked along the narrow corridor to the larger seating area in the rear, still no sign of staff. Ah, a member of staff was having his lunch and called Joseph from the kitchen. I was pleased to make his acquaintance. He let me choose my own table in one of the small booths on the far side of the rear room. In the course of our brief conversation he told me he is from Kerala. There are not a large number of actual – Indian Restaurants – in Glasgow. One day I will find a Chettinadu in Glasgow to match what I had in Seattle last weekend at Chili’s South Indian Cuisine. The Menu was provided. It was evident that this was not a Mainstream Menu, but a collection of well thought out Dishes.

Joseph mentioned Drinks, I asked for Sparkling Water. He offered Large or Small. Having been caught out at many a venue, I asked how much the Large was. £3.00 was more than acceptable for a Litre Bottle, Joseph insisted that they do not try to rip people off by overcharging.

Machi Masala (£15.00) featured Salmon in a – thick delicately spiced tomato gravy. The promise of a Thick Masala was tempting, sourcing Quality Fish Curry in Glasgow is difficult. By the time I dismissed Capsicum and Coconut from the Lamb Dishes, I was left with Rogan Josh (£11.00), a possibility. Duck Curry? – a rarity in these parts. Kuttandadan Tharavu Roast (£12.00) sounded interesting, I would have to verify that it was actually – Curry.  £20.00 for Nalli Gosht? Is it gold-plated?

Joseph returned, I asked about the Kuttandadan Tharavu Roast and whether I should have Bread or Rice with it. Having established how hungry I was, and that I was not having a Starter, he suggested both. Chapattis (£2.00) are not on the Menu. Joseph suggested  a Chapatti and one of the interesting Rice Dishes. I went for Chamba Rice (£2.50), Brown Rice apparently.

I had time to take in my surroundings. The layout is reminiscent of Charcoals on Renfield St., the entrance area, long narrow corridor, then larger seating area to the rear. From the street, one cannot see that these premises are considerably larger.

The wait was appropriate, not too long, not Curry in a flash. When it arrived, I was impressed by the sight of a Thick, Minimal Masala. The overall quantity was such that I could have done without the Chapatti. Nevertheless, this was a worthy Chapatti, good girth and soft. The Chamba Rice intrigued. This – Brown Rice – was White, Chubby, quite different from Basmati. It reminded me of the Orzo Pasta which is  used by the Greeks in Giouvetsi.

I arranged the Duck Curry over the Rice. There was a hint of Fresh Coriander and the slightest presence of Ginger Strips. After the poverty of Toppings in my recent jaunt to USA, I was glad to see these once more. This Curry looked Wonderful, redefining – Minimal Masala. This is how Hector likes his Curry.

The first mouthful disappointed, the food was simply not Hot enough. After my Homecoming Curry yesterday at Karahi Palace where the food is served – piping hot – I had to wonder what had happened.

The Spice Level was not demanding, thankfully the Seasoning rescued the meal, this was Fine. I counted the Duck pieces into double figures, they were also quite Large; a Portion size that matched the price. The Texture of the Duck varied from very Soft to quite Chewy, but that is the nature of Duck. Quack! It was the chewier meat which gave off the strongest Duck Flavour. Hector likes Duck.

I picked out Green Cardamom and Cinnamon Bark from the Melange. Onions were present throughout the Masala. Was it from here the slight Sweetness emanated? Hector prefers – Bitter – Karela, on the odd occasion. The hoped for Richness of Flavour was never revealed. This Curry did not have the Depth of Flavour I have become used to in, dare I mention, my favourite Punjabi venues.

Joseph had approached mid-meal to ask the customary question. I congratulated him on the Quality of the Masala. I was not revealing myself yet.

Overall, this was a Curry with a hint of pedigree, not the – Duck Soup – I feared might arrive. It should have been served Warmer, and the Spice Level negotiated.

The Bill

£19.50 Put Merchant City in the address and the price goes up a Fiver.

The Aftermath

By the time I paid, Joseph had left the building. His assistant took the Calling Card. Our conversation was interrupted by someone making a booking over the phone for later. I waited, we exchanged pleasantries. Until next time.

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Glasgow – Karahi Palace – Home, again, briefly…

Posted on June 21, 2018 by Hector

After seventeen days trying to track down the best of Curry on the Pacific side of USA, Hector is home, briefly. Karahi Palace (51 – 53 Nelson Street, Tradeston, Glasgow, G5 8DZ) was chosen as today’s venue, somehow I have not been here in two months. With the high regard I had for the Curry served up at Karahi Palace before I went – West, I can now deduce that not only is Karahi Palace one of the Best Curry Houses in Glasgow, it is simply one of the Best, Anywhere.

I arrived just after 14.00 to find two Chaps sharing a Kilo of Chicken Karahi. If my stomach was not still somewhere around 40,000ft, I may have been tempted to order the half Kilo for myself, a Portion would do. Qaser was there to serve, Chef Rashid was in his – spot, all was comfortably familiar.

The Order was given: Karahi Gosht (£7.90) and a Chapatti (£0.70). No Salad was forthcoming, a jug of Tap Water was brought, no glass. Patience, Hector, no American-style service here. Karahi Palace is as basic as they come.

A plastic cup arrived with the Curry, what happened to the glasses? No plate, none needed.  As I took my usual photos, the Chap at the next table of Chicken Karahi fame asked if I was taking photos to wind up my friends, as in Look what you don’t have. I told him I had a Blog.

Oh, your – hoot!? (sic)

Hoy-teh – is not pronounced correctly by those without Deutsch.

Hector had been recognised, he had read my Blog. His friend went on to name Yadgar as being the other standout venue in Glasgow. I mentioned Ambala, they have not been, yet.

And so into the Fresh and very Hot Karahi Gosht. How I have come to miss my Fresh Coriander and Ginger Strip Toppings, the extra Flavour and Crunch is something I will never take for granted again. This was comfort eating, I have been here often enough to know what to expect: the Oil collecting around the periphery of the Karahi, the Tomato-rich Masala Mash, the Sucky Bones, today I had three.

The Seasoning was – down – today, I did not ask for Extra Methi and Seasoning, perhaps I shall have to keep making this point no matter how often I visit. The Spice Level was most welcoming, a good Kick, nothing crazy despite the abundant chopped Green Chillies. My days of – Habanero – are behind me.

There was a pronounced Bitterness to the Flavour today, had some Karela sneaked in there? I needed more Methi. The Lamb was brilliant. Hector has not had Lamb in two weeks, such was the poverty of what was on offer States-side. Lamb, so much more full of Flavour than Chicken, don’t start me…

The Bill

£8.70. Rashid took the cash and took time to ask how I was. Genuine, not the American way. No presumption of a 15-20% Tip. Indeed, in these Curry Cafes, they are embarrassed if one tips.

The Aftermath

Now to the Briggait where Hector is doing some hours at the Foreign Bar at the Glasgow Real Ale Festival – G-RAF.

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Seattle WA – Chili’s South Indian Cuisine – The Return and The Welcome

Posted on June 17, 2018 by Hector

Yesterday, all my worries went so far away… finally, in Seattle, I have found a Curry House in USA that is worthy of a Hector rant – This Place serves Curry! Chili’s South Indian Cuisine (4220 University Way NE, Seattle, WA 98105 USA), as in Erlangen (Deutschland), where there be Students, there be Curry.

Dr. Stan took a little persuading, my so positive report on the Goat Chettinadu was almost enough, adding Big Time Brewery & Alehouse a block south was certainly enough. There would be Curry-Heute, Zusammen.

Bus 44 brought us to Chili’s at 12.55, the place was not stowed as at this time yesterday. We were allocated one table in from the door, a small table for two. Dr. Stan briefly struggled to get in, the table was moved, sorted. The Cold Water arrived, I remember when a Manchester (England) Curry House used to charge for their – Welcoming Water. They soon stopped that.

Brasil 1 v 1 Schweiz

The game was just finishing as we took our seats. We had seen none of it, Fox were showing the US Open instead of the World Cup this morning.

A Lady I had not seen yesterday was clearly – The Hostess. One of the two Waitresses who had served me yesterday was there. The Lady Host came around the Restaurant asking where she thought appropriately:

Are you here for – Father’s Day?

Dr. Stan has had to suffer Hector for seventeen days, surely he has not aged that much? The Faither #2?

I am not a Number…

Having recommended the Chettinadu Goat ($16.99), Dr. Stan had to prove his independence: Chettinadu Lamb (Very Spicy) ($16.99). Note the capitalisations of – Very – and – Spicy. It was Our Hostess who took the Order, she asked Dr. Stan to confirm he could handle – Spicy. I assured him he could.

Fish Chettinadu was my hope, but I was told yesterday it cannot be done, a different Masala. I was almost tempted by the Chettinadu Shrimp (Spicy) ($16.99), but I knew this was my best chance for a decent Fish Curry on this Trip: Fish (Boneless) Molee Curry ($18.99) it had to be. The $3.00 more than its alternative had to be justified.

A family to my left, and in as close proximity as in the classic British TV play – Mr. Axelford’s Angel, were having Thali, Sambal, Oopsadaisies (sic) etc. I heard congratulations on how wonderful this Vegetarian Array had been. Not for Hector. The baby cried. Give it Goshat Karahi, Punjabi-style!    I jest.

The wait was well within acceptable parameters, and not too soon. The Lamb Chettinadu was everything I had seen yesterday in Goat, so click here for that review. The Curry-Heute Test was now in vogue – can you serve the same Quality two days in a row?

Lamb Chettinadu

I let Dr. Stan get started then asked:

Impressed?

Oh yes.

He enjoyed the Spice, not a problem for the Good Doctor.

And so it was declared – an Excellent Curry. Dr. Stan tends to say little more, but today he did.

Very good, Spicy, the Lamb was quite burnt in places, is this normal?

I suggested he may have received Lamb Tikka. Dr. Stan was certain it was not Tikka.  Fiercely fried then?

With Hector once again in full – photograph everything mode – the Waitress from yesterday approached, it was not her I gave the Calling Card to but she somehow knew I had spoken to her colleague. I showed yesterday’s Blog for Chili’s, the Lady in charge was summoned, our Hostess. She was very pleased to see that I had written a review, my LG was taken to the door and the Blog read, thoroughly. On her return, our Hostess was beaming even more, a true appreciation of the positive words I had written. I showed her the Fish Chettinad as served at Indian Mango (München) which sets – The Standard. She took on board my suggestion for Fish Chettinad, so if it ever appears on the menu, hopefully someone will let me know. Hector is unlikely ever to be in Seattle again.

Our Hostess went on to tell that Chili’s had recently won a major Seattle Award, some kind of – Hall of Fame. The walls were adorned with testimonies, a Curry-Heute Blog may well appear there one day. Their most loyal customer arrived, we were introduced, he spoke so highly of the Fayre served at Chili’s, apparently there is nothing like it elsewhere in Seattle. There had to be a photograph, and so there was.

All of this took place after the arrival of my Fish Molee Curry. Eating Curry and discussing Curry, Hector was in Curry Nirvana.

Fish Molee Curry

The Fish (Boneless) Molee Curry had a much thinner Masala than the Chettinad.

We had both taken the – Two Paratha – option over Chapathi. Once again, the Parathas were Perfect, today I would almost manage both. The Rice lay beside the karahi on the plate, due to the nature of the Masala, I thought it better to add the Rice to the Curry, not my ideal, and not aesthetically pleasing for photos. I was also worried about splashing Masala all over my t-shirt.

Once again, from the first dip of Paratha, Hector was blown away. How was it possible, this Curry had even more Flavour bursting through, and a Tang as well. I may prefer a Thicker Masala, but who cares when it tastes this Wonderful? As yesterday, I encountered copious Black Peppercorns, and Cinnamon Stick. Curry Leaves were the Herb, and those Red Chillies.

I was so engrossed with the Masala, I had yet to encounter the Fish. The Tilapia was a single large piece, well buried. I managed to raise it to the surface, a la Titanic. This was an impressive piece of Fish and complemented the Masala.

How much Bland Fish Curry have I reported on over the years? This was the antithesis, the Real McCoy. The Spice Level was high, again well judged, though this Curry did bring perspiration to the brow. Seasoning is all, this Curry had it, and so a great Depth of Flavour was attained. This Fish Molee Curry is one I shall recall forever.

The Bill

$39.62 (£29.57) When compared to what we have been paying for Bar Food in the evenings, great value.

The Aftermath

I had made a great connection today. We were bade farewell:

Thank you for helping us.

It was a great pleasure.

Two visits only, but Chili’s South Indian Restaurant has to be added to Hector’s Recommended Curry Houses.

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Seattle WA – Chili’s South Indian Cuisine – Is there a Better Curry in USA?

Posted on June 16, 2018 by Hector

The day began with Curryspondent Doug questioning if Storm Hector, caused by an excess of so called – Chicken Curry – here in USA, had taken its toll: days here without Curry and my enthusiasm waning. There was a brief – Wow! – at India Grill (Portland OR), but yesterday’s visit to Qazis here in Seattle made me question what I was doing. Suppose there are no decent Curry Houses? I decided to stick to the plan and visit Chili’s South Indian Cuisine (4220 University Way NE, Seattle, WA 98105 USA). Kerala Cuisine is not my favoured but I do love Chettinad.  Indian Mango (München) have set the Chettinad Standard, but I believe they have altered what they now serve, to me at least, to reduce the former abundant Masala. The Smoked Chilli Flavour remains Universal.

Dr. Stan’s absence for Curry-Heute was a tacit declaration of – enough blandness already. I arrived at Chili’s shortly before 13.00 and was given a table for two nearest the door. I could see the place was busy, thirty something customers were already there, family groups. With only three tables left and the window stool tables, Chili’s was about to fill up this Saturday lunchtime. There was no Buffet today, and they were this busy?

I acquired a Menu only after reminding one of the two Waitresses that I did not have one. They were in limited supply from what I could see and with so many still to order, I wondered what I had let myself in for.

Whilst I waited to be served something became apparent: the clientele were mostly Indian, cue a cliché. The fullness of the Restaurant also restricted my photographic coverage – excuse me, do you mind if I take a photo of your Curry? – not happening.

My Order was finally taken: Chettinad Goat (Bone-In) (very Spicy) ($16.99) – served with Basmathi Rice & Two Paratha or Chapathi. I took the Paratha option. Their additional – h–  in Basmathi was noted, the use of a capitalisation for – Spice made me smile. Who uses Capitalisations to highlight key words?

One of the two Waitresses offered me Chai, I declined, I don’t drink Tea with Milk and never outside Scotland, the Water. The other Waitress offered me Chai, a new Chap who had appeared on duty did so also. Can I have more Water please? A young Girl appeared at the door beside me, she was here to wash up, had she been summoned due to the number of customers now present and sometimes queuing? I did well to keep my table and not be moved to the window. The Couple who were given the last table for two in front of me studied the Menu, accepted the Chai, then left. Bad form. Were they expecting Buffet ($10.91 plus Tax)? Not available at weekends.

The Chap brought my food, I was instantly impressed, ah the aroma of South Indian Cuisine, the Chillies!

Chettinad Goat (Bone-in)

The Parathas were Perfect, ticking all three boxes: Layered, Flaky, and showing the Swirl. One would have been enough for me, especially with the included Basmati. The Rice was an elegant sufficiency, they know what they are doing here.

The Goat Chettinad sat in a decent-sized karahi, a proper Masala at last. I decanted the Goat, every one of the ten pieces was on-the-bone. Copious Chillies and pieces of rolled Cinnamon were encountered as I arranged the Masala over the Rice. The abundance of Herbs in the Masala was further confirmation of the Quality.

I tore off a piece from one the two whole Parathas and dipped into the decidedly not excessive Blended Masala – Gosh & Wow!

The Seasoning was tremendous, the Kick was right in the face, the anticipated Chettinad Flavours hit the palate hard, this was going to be a Magnificent Curry.

Time to tackle the Goat: fingers had to be used, the Meat was too large and hot to put in my mouth whole, I would have to nibble. Hector eats with his left hand, hopefully nobody was being offended. The Goat had more fat than Lamb would and was decidedly chewier despite being properly cooked, it was matter of adjusting. Hector has not had Lamb in a week.

My throat felt pleasures not experienced since leaving the UK, well balanced Spice, demanding, not silly. Leave the Water alone. Whole Black Peppercorns were in abundance, I picked out Green Cardamom and even more Cinnamon. I had quite a pile of Cinnamon and Chillies forming on the side of my plate, the bones I put back in the karahi. I was not eating the Chillies today, too risky, a long flight home in two days.

I had arrived at Chili’s not expecting much, already I had decided I was coming back tomorrow. Could they do this Chettinad with Fish? Apart from Indian Mango (München), every Chettinad I have ever eaten has been served in the Thinnest of Shorva. I love the Chettinad Flavours and have therefore tolerated how it is usually served, but never accepted it had to be so. I congratulate Chili’s for making the leap away from Shorva, this Masala was much more satisfying.

The Bill

$18.81 (£14.04) Worth every penny.

The Aftermath

The place was still very busy and so the Waitress who took my cash was being generous with the few moments we had to discuss Curry-Heute. I asked if Fish Chettinad (not on the Menu) could be served. She said – No.

Why not?

It’s a different Masala.

It doesn’t have to be.

Across the street from Chili’s in this University District lies Big Time Brewery & Alehouse, I have a cunning plan for tomorrow. In the meantime, here’s a sunset photo over the Olympic Mountains taken from the Downtown – Public  Market Center.

Menu – extracts

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Seattle WA – Qazis Indian Curry House – Rainbow Buffet

Posted on June 15, 2018 by Hector

I had pencilled in three Curry Houses in Seattle I hoped to visit. After today at Qazis Indian Curry House (473 N 36th St, Fremont, Seattle, WA 98103) I am looking forward to Pasta Carbonara washed down with some Posé Wine. Yes it was another Bland Buffet, but as ever this was not the original intention.  There is surely somewhere on the West Coast of USA serving Desi/Apna style Indian food?

We passed Qazis last night walking from Fremont Brewing to Outlander Brewery and Pub, yes, that is a statue of Lenin here in Fremont. There was time to study the Menu posted outside and consider what was available a la carte. Karai Gosht was available in an array of Meats, Lamb or Fish both $12.50. That Fenugreek was mentioned was enticing. Could the – offending Vegetable – be withheld? As a fall back with the same caveat, Chilli (Dry Dish) was similarly priced.

Online photos of Qazis showed tablecloths and a lot of Soupy Curry. When Dr. Stan and I entered today some fifteen minutes after Portugal 3 v 3 España, it had just gone 13.00. The front of the Restaurant was busy, the rear empty. There were no tablecloths. I did see enough Soupy Curry to make Chilli the new possibility. The Menu was provided, we confirmed what had been seen last night.

We may as well look at the Buffet – I said to Dr. Stan, he agreed.

The first thing I saw was a Chilli Chicken stir fry with Large pieces of Onion and Capsicum. Had I ordered this as a single Main there would have been major disappointment. Chicken Tikka Masala, Beef Meatballs, Daal Makhani and Aloo Gobi were there, no Lamb. We needed Lunch, Buffet it would be.

I returned the Menus to the Waiter and declared – Buffet.

Vegetable Pakora and a Samosa were first on my plate then the Aloo Gobi which at least looked suitably – Dry. A Soupçon of a very Green Daal Makhani was spooned on and some of the Beef Meatballs in what looked very much like Tomato Soup. I took some of the Chilli, doing my best to avoid the Capsicum. One never knows, it might have a Flavour worth noting.

A freshly made Quartered Naan featuring some Fresh Coriander, was placed on the table as we returned to our seats, a good touch. I do not take Buffet Bread that has been sitting out for who knows how long. The Naan was Light, approaching – Fluffy, but for me not fired enough.

The Pakora was Large, Fresh, decent Pakora. The Samosa was decidedly Vegetable, a mass of what I took to be Mashed Potato was dominant. This was Spicy and had an Earthy Flavour. A good beginning, however, one knows the – Rule of Starters.

The Greenness of the Daal Makhani puzzled. This aside, it looked authentic but did not have the intensity of Flavour enjoyed at India Grill (Seattle) two days previously. The Chilli Chicken puzzled. Where was the Chicken? Apparently there was Chicken Tikka in here somewhere, ah these tiny pieces. This had a Kick but was a one Flavour Dish. I did well to avoid any more of this.

The Beef Meatballs were perfectly spherical and cohesive. Ground Beef is quite different from UK-style Mince and hence Kofta. If these Beef Meatballs had been brought in frozen like the ingredients for many an open kitchen in the Brewpubs I have seen on this Trip, I would not be surprised. They had quite a distinctive Flavour which seemed alien to Curry. The Tomato-coloured Masala did little to create any sense of authenticity. Finally, for Plate #1, the very – Yellow – Aloo Gobi was way overcooked, the Vegetables far too Soft. Here at least the Masala was minimal, the Seasoning was well judged and there was Spice. This was the closest thing to – Curry – I had on my plate.

Dr. Stan had a plate of Starers before his Plate #2 of Chicken Tikka Masala, Daal Makhani, Beef Meatballs, Aloo Gobi and the tiniest quantity of the Chilli stir fry. These he ate without comment. I would have to get some words out of him, later.

For Plate #2, I was simply doing research. Punjabi Pakora Curry it said at the Buffet. This I tend to avoid at home – Kadhi – far too Wet, and the Pakora goes Soggy. I had to sample the Chicken Tikka Masala, one never knows…

There was no Pakora in my Soupçon of Punjabi Pakora Curry, was I too late, or is Capsicum and Chilli all they intended to be present? The very Yellow Sauce tasted as if it had come from a packet.

I would like to say that this was a Classic – Chicken Tikka Masala, however, I cannot. It was Chicken in essentially what was Tomato Soup which is how apocryphally this Dish came into existence in Glasgow’s (Scotland) Shish Mahal. The Chicken was cut Bradford Small and had next to no Flavour. This was Chicken Tikka?

There’s Chilli in the Chilli Chicken – said Dr. Stan, apart from that it’s very bland.

He went up for Dessert and came back with Gulab Jamun.

Solid – was his final word.

I have to question all of the Masalas. Had any Onions been harmed in their preparation? As for Ginger and Garlic, who knows? The Curry served here at Qazis is not for the Cognoscenti, but those who do not know what – Curry – can be.

The Bill

$24.12. (£18.00) I broke the rule of the USA and did not tip. I was not impressed.

The Aftermath

Interaction with the Waiter was more about trying to get my credit card to work than appreciation of the Calling Card.

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