Glasgow – Yadgar Kebab House – Still Open for Daytime Business

Posted on May 22, 2018 by Hector

It’s Lidl Shopping Day with Mother, it could also be Hector’s last Glasgow Curry for some time. Manchester is calling then … somewhere new and far away. In ten days or so, all shall be revealed.

Meanwhile there is the small matter of an event which occurred yesterday: the 8 million mark was reached on Curry-Heute. My continuing thanks to those who read this Blog, and especially – The Curryspondents – who add their comments.

Yadgar Kebab House (148 Calder St, Govanhill, Glasgow, G42 7QP) opens daily at Noon except Friday (14.00), yet it took me until 12.30 to get through to order two portions of Goshat Karahi (£8.00), one on-the-bone, one boneless, plus one portion of Vegetable Rice (£3.00). The latter has dropped off the Menu.

I said I would arrive before 14.00 but was asked to come later, it’s Ramadan, the Chaps had another place to be. Effectively, for the next few weeks, every day should be treated as a Friday.

Mother and Hector arrived at 14.10, the shutters were still down. Shafiq was first to arrive back bearing a cargo of Milk. So is – Milk – the Yadgar Secret Ingredient? I very much doubt it, a lot of milk though. The new Young Waiter brought plates etc. We declined the offer of Spiced Onions and Poppadoms. Shafiq made a similar offer, Chapattis were also declined. Knowing the Portion Size of what we had ordered, this would be quite enough. I did ask Shafiq to ensure that the dinner plates would be warm, this always keeps Mother happy.

Chef Arshad walked into the otherwise empty dining area and spotted Mother. He did a double take before spotting me. The Staff were trickling in, another Chap who has been here for years and I know not what he does in the kitchen, made a beeline for Mother. He whispered something complimentary about Hector. Hector is well known at Yadgar.

Shafiq brought Hot Plates then the Curry, two generous portions, and as anticipated a mound of Vegetable Rice. Even when this was split in half, it still looked Substantial.

Mother tore into the Vegetable Rice, she was quite content eating this and had to be reminded that the plate of Boneless Goshat Karahi before her was all hers.

Goshat Karahi on-the-bone

The Goshat Karahi on-the-bone was a lighter colour than the Boneless. Here is proof, if ever any was required, that they were prepared separately. I took some of the Boneless for comparison purposes, this is the Soupçon at the top of the photo of Curry and Rice.

Goshat Karahi boneless

The Vegetable Rice at Yadgar is Magnificent, there is nothing to compete with it since The Village abandoned theirs. Potatoes, Cauliflower and Peas in abundance, how does the Flavour of the Cauliflower come through so prominently in the Melange?

The Spice Level in both Dishes was well pitched, enough, no need to intimidate the Mother. As I ate, what at first felt – Mild – developed into Spicy! The Seasoning was well down in the on-the-bone Goshat Karahi, one suspects that when Shkoor is involved in the Order, he ensures it is prepared – The Hector Way – with more Spice, Seasoning and Methi. The distinctive – Yadgar Taste – was present, but nowhere near the – Wow – standard.

Mr. Anwar Sr. emerged from the kitchen, he has met Mother a couple of times now. I related my Ramadan Buffet visit to The Village and that finally I have acquired a tolerance, even liking, for Haleem, though Paya they can keep.

Regarding Paya, Haleem and Nihari:

Very heavy – was his verdict.

Indeed, as describes Yadgar’s Goshat Karahi which is why one does not have this too often.

It is about time The Chaps returned for more Lamb Chops Achari.

The Bill

£19.00.  Menu prices.

The Aftermath

Having eaten @15.00, that was it for Hector today.

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Glasgow – The Village – Ramadan Buffet : An Opperchancity for Something Completely Different

Posted on May 19, 2018 by Hector

Nothing else of importance was happening today…

Marg and Hector are having Curry at 21.30 on a Saturday night? It must be Ramadan and so it must also be The Village “Curry House” (119 West St., Tradeston, Glasgow G5 8BA) – the Ramadan Buffet (£12.95). As Ramadan precesses, so the northerly latitude’s toll is being diminished. I look forward to a December Ramadan with The Village Ramadan Buffet kicking off @15.30. In the last few years, the Buffet has not been served before 22.30 such is the length of day in Scotland mid-summer. Summer, what’s that?

We arrived punctually and were recognised, no need to declare our booking. The Village was busy, but not as stowed as I have seen it previously on such occasions, maybe more would come later. We were shown to a table for two right beside the line of tureens. From here, Hector could survey all, it also gave me the opperchancity to photograph every Main Course before it was touched by our fellow diners.

So let’s get straight into what was on offer this evening, and it does vary from night to night. That I could see Rice nearest to our table, puzzled. The last port of call for those in line; the logic became apparent later.

               Chicken Biryani (Bone)                              Lamb Pilao (Bone)

                       Nihari                                                            Haleem

                     Tarka Daal                                                        Paya

                    Aloo Chana                                             Lamb Kirahi (Bone)

                     Lamb Bhuna                          Campo Chicken (Chinese style)

                    Sarso Ka Saag                                     Chicken Kirahi (Bone)

Paya -Trotters, Nihari – always served in a Shorva, Haleem – Lamb cooked down to a pulp, Tarka Daal – not Makhani, Hector’s Favourite Daal, Chicken Anything, Chana Aloo – no avoiding Chickpeas here, Sarso Ka Saag – full on Spinach: ah well, this was not Hector’s – Dream Menu. One could simply indulge in Lamb Kirahi and Lamb Bhuna, or one seizes the day.

I returned from my photographic sojourn to find our Large Bottle of Sparkling Water (£2.95), it was time for Starters. Ideally, one should come to The Village Ramadan Buffet twice, once to concentrate on Starters then the Mains on the return visit. This year, such is our diary tonight will be the only visit.

The Starters

I returned from my tour of the Starters with this:

The Patties were not Chapli Kebabs, or were they a variation? Either way, these were still the most interesting and tasty for Hector. The Samosa was – Light, Crispy and Fresh. The Vegetable, Aubergine and Mushroom Pakoras were all Satisfactory, one could easily have filled the plate with these, or anything else for that matter. The Chicken Buffalo Wing in Batter had to be sampled, it was unsurprisingly no more than – Chicken in a Spicy Batter. I even took some Dates from the artistically arranged platter.

In true Buffet style, I had sampled a cross-section, there was much more I could have had, but this is where Marg comes in.

Marg’s plate had Mango Chutney, Raita, Salad and a Spring Roll. She found Chicken Tikka and also sampled the three types of Pakora. Again, she could have taken much more. In previous years she has stuck to Starters, tonight Marg would sample some Mains.

We watched the first Diners tackle the tureens, it was good not to be part of the first throng. We took our time and let the Starters digest. Then it was our turn to brave the Mains.

*

Indigo, Sosumi

Note the lack of Bread and Rice. There is no point bagging oneself up with these. The Village is possibly the venue where I have enjoyed Nihari most, all down to the Quality of their Masala, so why not give it another go? This did not disappoint.

Paya, as I wrote last year but spelled differently, sheep/goat trotters has to be considered the food of poverty. Is that what makes it a – Delicacy? Having left the accompanying Shorva behind, I ate – the paw – with my fingers. It was Meat on-the-bone, and not particularly flavoursome. I don’t get – Paya.

Haleem I try to avoid and would certainly never have it as a Main Course. Somewhere between Gelatine and a Daal it looks disgusting. My mouth went on fire, for a Buffet, this was – Seriously Spicy, the Seasoning was also to the fore. One lives, one learns. This was easily the Best Haleem I have encountered to date. I will not be rushing back for more, but will certainly have another Tapas Portion next time I see it here.

One could dream about sitting down to an endless supply of Village Lamb Kirahi. As with the Lamb Bhuna, there was way more Masala than would be served a la carte. I suppose everyone picks out the Meat and leaves the Masala behind, who wants a plate of – Soup? The Kirahi featured Lamb Chops, the Bhuna was on-the-bone. Neither was as full of Flavour as could be, however, this is judging it by – Village Standards. I went back for more, of both.

Marg had Chicken Biryani, Aloo Chana and Lamb Bhuna. I was too busy matching photos to notes to ask her about her selection. So it goes.

Second time around I had Sarso Ka Saag and Lamb Biryani to accompany my – #2 – Lamb Bhuna and Lamb Kirahi. I noted the – columnar structure – of the Meat. I have in the past questioned if this was truly Lamb, I now know it is.

When Spinach is served with Cream I always ask why, it’s too Creamy. When Saag/Palak is simply a blend of Green Herbs with Spinach dominating, I question the bitterness… unless it’s Methi of course. By this time I had realised why the Lamb Biryani was at the end of the line of tureens. Had it been at start, people would have picked out the Lamb leaving Rice, else they would have taken Lamb and Rice when Rice is really all they wanted. This is my theory. By having the Bread at the start and the Biryani at the end, it could only be taken if one’s plate had room. My plate did, and I was overdue some Rice/Bread. Finally a – Dry Curry – of sorts. Whole Green Chillies were embedded, now we’re talking. This was my first Biryani experience at The Village, this was seriously – Tasty Rice.  

Dessert!

Marg’s favourite part of any meal. Marg went to see if Ice Cream was available, not this evening. She returned content, a plate of – Sweeties. Even Hector got in on the act. I could have had more Haleem.

The premises were emptying, we were asked if we had finished, we had. Kassif, Mein Host Jr., helped himself to dinner. One of the Lunchtime Waitresses was still on duty, quite a shift, but she told me someone had worked and fasted even longer.

The Bill

£28.85. Unbelievable value. Last year at the point of paying, Mr. Baig, Mein Host, asked me to get in touch with – The Herald – and make them aware. They are now, and so should everyone.

The Aftermath

I am still trying to work out how I was conned into walking a dog around Dumbreck at 23.30 on a Saturday night.

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Duntocher (Clydebank) – Taj Mahal – A Friday Night Takeaway

Posted on May 18, 2018 by Hector

Taj Mahal (66 Dumbarton Rd., Duntocher, Clydebank G81 6HE), a Cafe and Indian Takeaway, so says the blurb on their Takeaway Menu. A Cafe? Hector had a mental image of a Curry Cafe with prepared Dishes on display. Allegedly open early morning serving a British Breakfast,  at least some sit-in facility was anticipated.

Arriving around 19.00 this evening, I was therefore disappointed to establish that Taj Mahal is only a Takeaway. A bench, which I and other customers used whilst we waited for our Orders, did have one table at the far end. However, with packaging piled up, I doubt if anyone sits here on a regular basis. Cafe Reeshah this was not.

I waded through the Menu, Pizza, Kebabs, Burgers, then finally two pages devoted to Indian Cuisine. I liked the – Any Half Curry & Rice (£4.95) – and wonder how this works. Such is the size of a typical – Glasgow Takeaway – this could mean only having to order one Main Course if ordering for two. Next were the  – Chef’s Specialities. Too many Dishes had – Peppers, Mixed Peppers, Capsicum. Bhoona – appeared on the list either by name or description, there was hope, a Thick Masala may be available. Lamb Punjabi Masala (£6.00) spicy, tasty bhoona-ish sauce with peppers plus Special Rice (£3.00) cooked in mushrooms, onions and peas – was Hector’s choice. As ever, I asked for no Peppers to be included in either the Main Course or the Rice. This was duly noted.

The Bill

£9.50. So, an extra 50p for withholding the Capsicum?

I sat on the bench, it was cosy as we became three. I watched various Pizza Orders leave the premises. £9.95 for an XL – 14” Pizza looks like good value. The Full Bhoona, a Pizza, took me back to Pizza Hut in Agra, India.

It took a decent fifteen minutes for my Order, the short drive back along the Boulevard meant the Curry and Rice were still Hot enough to eat back at Hector’s House.

Taking a plateful of Rice, I still had enough for later, this could easily have done two. I counted out ten pieces of Meat, then took enough Masala to create an elegant sufficiency.

 

The Masala was decidedly – Red – Clydebank Curry Red. Why do they all do this? At least the Masala had a reasonably Thick consistency, not too – Soupy – therefore. With Mushrooms, Onions and Peas there was enough Diversity on the plate, pieces of Sliced Green Chillies were also a welcomed sight, extra Bite.

The lack of Seasoning was immediately apparent, at least there was a sense of Spice. The hoped for – Blast of Flavour – never emerged. Whilst the Lamb was suitably Tender, it was not giving out much Flavour other than Meatiness. From somewhere, there was a hint of the ubiquitous – Clydebank Curry Taste. This may or may not be what the people want, it most certainly is what we get.

If Taj Mahal is on one’s doorstep then it’s fine. New Kismet Tandoori (Glasgow) remains my favoured Takeaway in the Clydebank area. Mr. Tasty in Whitecrook is the only Clydebank Takeaway I have not visited. I note they won an Award recently, perhaps next time.

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Glasgow – Desi Cafe (Desi – Curry Palace) – Going from Strength to Strength

Posted on May 15, 2018 by Hector

Unbelievably, it is a year since Hector and Mother last visited Desi Cafe (140 Allison St. Glasgow G42 8RP). We were amongst the first customers when the Desi – Curry Palace expanded to the adjacent premises and ceased just being a Takeaway. I have popped my head in the door in passing to see Ikram who still mans the Takeaway.

Parking round the corner, I was surprised to see Ahmed, Mein Host, walking towards us. He was parked in the same side street. I assured him we were on our way to his premises.

Entering just after 14.00 half of the tables were occupied, within minutes all were. The counter has moved since I was last here, now providing access to the Takeaway Grill. Presumably, the actual cooking takes place in the new kitchen in the Desi Cafe and the reheating and Bread is done in the Desi – Curry Palace. Access to the Facilities is also easier.

A Young Chap talked me through the Dishes on offer. Aloo Gosht on-the-bone was the only Meat option, Chicken being dismissed. One day I might remember to ask for the Menu. Two Portions of Aloo Gosht, one portion of Rice and one Chapatti were ordered.

On returning to my seat I acknowledged two Chaps sitting opposite, they were clearly enjoying the Fayre. They – discovered – Desi Cafe some three weeks ago and have been here often since. I introduced myself and gave them a Calling Card each. I hopefully persuaded them to try the other Curry Cafes nearby: Yadgar, Sheerin Palace and Ambala. No doubt our paths will cross again.

Two warm plates were presented, this always pleases Mother. I halved the Rice, one Portion was enough to share. The Chapatti was partially redundant, but then, how else can one dip?

Dipping the Chapatti into the Shorva, the Flavour was oh so familiar, Classic Desi Cuisine. This one does not get in Mainstream Curry Houses. There was a big Spice hit, the Seasoning was sufficient, not obtrusive.

Decanting the Meat, I counted six pieces, two were on-the-bone. Each of the two large pieces of Potato was cut into more manageable sizes, I now had a decent portion. Some of the Shorva was retained in the bowl, for more dipping and to flavour the Rice at the endgame. Delightful Curry, so simple.

Mother made great progress, she definitely eats more than she did when we started these Lunchtime Outings.

Two things going on here – she remarked – spice, and heat, burny.

Every grain of Rice was devoured, every bone sucked. We certainly had our money’s worth.

The Bill

£13.00. For two meals, great value.

The Aftermath

Ahmed’s son asked:

How was the food?

Always good – was the reply.

Ahmed had a chat with Mother as we departed, this she loves.

Driving along Allison Street, I noticed that Lasani Grill was boarded up, derelict. Maybe someone will tell me what happened here?

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Glasgow – Chaakoo Bombay Cafe – Visit #1

Posted on May 14, 2018 by Hector

Dr. Stan and Hector had to entertain our respective house-guests this afternoon before they took their separate paths back down south. Charcoals was mooted being close to Central Station, however, when I realised that none of us had been to the new place on St. Vincent Street in the heart of the City, Chaakoo Bombay Cafe (79 St Vincent St, Glasgow G2 5TF) it was. They are open every day from Noon and do not close mid afternoon as too many venues do. The location is excellent. Walking in the door of the impressively decorated room I immediately wondered – who had the wherewithal to set this place up? Chaakoo Bombay Cafe was formerly a Bar so one assumes the basic layout has remained the same, the décor is quite simply magnificent. Is this true to what Irani Cafes look like in India?

A Young Chap who later identified himself as one of the Managers showed us to a booth. We were far too large collectively to squeeze in, a more flexible table at the rear of the room was then allocated. Much better. The camera was out, Hector was recording his first visit in great detail.

Vitamin C

Hector’s day was made even before the food was considered. Vitamin C (Ege Bamyasi) by CAN was played on the sound system. CAN in a Curry House? Oh Yeah. It feels like only two week since I saw Irmin Schmidt in Manchester, it is.

Tapas, that explains why the prices were so attractive. Our Chap informed us that whatever we ordered would all arrive at the same time.

Option 2 – Grill & Curry (£9.95) looked like a good deal: a Starter and a Main with Rice or Masala Fries. As I was recording everyone’s choices it fell to me to relay the Order. We all took Option 2 with Rice, plus one Dish from the Main Menu (£6.95). Hector: Tulsi Chicken Tikka and Daal Makhani, plus Garlic Lamb. Ricky: Tulsi Chicken Tikka and Garlic Chilli Chicken, plus Rara Gosh. Clive: Tandoori Chaat and Garlic Chilli Chicken, plus Rara Gosh. Dr. Stan: Tulsi Chicken Tikka and Rogan Josh, plus Lamb Sagwalla.

Jugs of Water were a sufficient refreshment whilst we waited. Time to take more photos.

The Staff did well to get all the Dishes on the table more or less simultaneously.

Tapas

The bowls were the same make/size as used at Sarina’s (Queensbury, Bradford) That we had two each full of Curry was clearly enough. When the Rice was decanted to the two provided plates there proved to be a – sensible amount.

The Tulsi Chicken Tikka had three decent sized pieces covered in – something green. I hoped this would have the – Full on Flavour – as found in the the Tandoori Mix at the Taj Mahal (Bernkastel, Deutschland), sadly not the case. Still, as Chicken goes this was fine. The photo confirms my oft repeated observation that it’s all about the outside, Flavours do not permeate Chicken.

Clive’s Tandoori Chaat appeared to have a lot of Capsicum present, I’m glad I avoided this.

No complaints – remarked Clive about his Starter – but overshadowed by what followed.

Clive and Ricky both had Garlic Chilli Chicken and Rara Gosh.

(I hope I have the following dishes matching the correct photo.)

Garlic Chilli Chicken

Rara Gosh

That was as hot as I like it – said Ricky – anything above that is stupid.

Both can tolerate Spice, so this must have impressed.

Daal Makhani

What idiot puts a Daal Makhani over Basmati? This one. This is Hector’s favourite Daal, not always available and sometimes disproportionately expensive, this was a great Opperchancity to enjoy the experience. Kidney Beans and Lentils were present in the Creamy Masala. This was a worthy Daal, I would certainly have this again, but then as I did today, I would miss out on the two-Curry moment.

Garlic Lamb

The Garlic Lamb impressed instantly. The Seasoning hit the palate hard, excellent, well judged. Then it was the Spice and finally the Garlic. I found a Garlic Clove, was it pickled? Seven pieces of Meat were present, for a Tapas portion this was impressive. The Flavour was all in the Masala, the Tender Lamb was Fine, but was taking Flavour from the Masala rather than giving. Still, this was an impressive Curry.

Dr. Stan had the – two Lamb Curry Experience. The Sagwalla looked lighter in colour than the norm, not so much Spinach then. The Rogan Josh was heading towards the – Creamy Creation – that many venues now serve. It did look a bit – Soupy. Dr. Stan was content with his choices.

Rogan Josh

Re the Rogan Josh:

It said it had Peppers, none were visible unless mashed into the Masala.

Lamb Sagwalla

Re the Lamb Sagwalla:

I enjoyed that.

There was no holding back the Good Doctor:

I’ll come back now that I know what the score is.

Ricky too said he would be happy to return to Bombay Chakoo Cafe:

The Starter had loads of Chicken, I could have done with just the Option.

Once the plates were cleared, I took the opperchancity to ask Our Chap how this business came to be. Chaakoo Bombay Cafe is part of the Di Maggio chain. When Chef Manou was discovered, it was decided to build the Restaurant around him. Luck Chap, does he get a day off?

The Bill

£67.60. £16.90 per head. We had been fed with Quality Curry.

The Aftermath

I asked if I could meet Chef Manou, he was summoned and the photo taken with him and the Manager who had looked after us so well. I congratulated Chef on his Curry: It’s all about the Salt – was my opening statement to him. If one gets this right, then Wonderful Curry is possible.

Butter Chicken is on the Menu, Marg will be keen to visit and judge it. Our next free Sunday together in the UK may not be until August. Hopefully I’ll be back before then.

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Keema Mutter – Hector’s Home Cooking

Posted on May 13, 2018 by Hector

The availability of a barrel of Loc – Sleeper (Nederland) at a modest 6.6% was announced at the Barcelona Beer Festival two months ago, Hector agreed to be host. This was the first time our new compressor has been used at Hector’s House, cold Bier and no need to wreck another fridge.

Keema Mutter is the easiest Curry to serve on such occasions, no need to worry about overcooking the Meat. It is also a favourite of some of the guests. The Recipe is given, tried and tested, very straightforward. 4lbs of Beef Mince were used. Tamarind was today’s variation.

Preparation started yesterday, leaving the half cooked Curry to infuse overnight has to be better than serving it straight away. As is now my custom, here is a pictorial account of Keema Mutter being cooked. 

The surplus Oil was spooned off before serving, the base for my next Curry.

Those who partook made all the usual positive noises. Everyone went back for more, the pot was emptied. Howard even managed to sneak a Takeaway. Marg came home, – Where’s my dinner?

Oops.

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Glasgow – Namak Mandi – Namkeen Karahi, a Curry of Contradiction?

Posted on May 12, 2018 by Hector

Ricky is up from Bradford, Lord Clive is up from from Crawley, each for different events tomorrow. Curry-Heute was mandatory.

Namak Mandi (21-23 Bridge St, Glasgow G5 9JB) was today’s selected venue, a first for the above plus Dr. Stan who was hosting Ricky. Namkeen Karahi (£11.99) for four was arranged at 16.00 as Hector and Dr. Stan proceeded to The Laurieston, our rendezvous locus. Mein Host was there to greet, the – two kilos – requested for 18.00, but only confirmed after he consulted the Chef. If one desires the – White Karahi – one has to give notice.

This would be Clive and Ricky’s first exposure to Namkeen Karahi. Dr. Stan and Hector have enjoyed this at Yadgar and courtesy of Waris now at Deira Lahore. It is – Curry – but not as one knows it, cooked with nothing – Red – only Salt, Pepper, and Chillies.

We arrived punctually to find most of the tables reserved. Young Waiters were now on duty. I told one that we were here for the Namkeen Karahi and were shown to a table adjacent to the counter and one of the Dias. Interestingly, the Dias at the window was occupied by a group of Chaps who had chosen to squat here to dine.

One Kilo? – asked the Waiter.

No, two.

We required Bread but no Menu was provided. The Waiter appeared to think we knew what Accompaniments we wanted already, I could only speak for myself, a Chilli and Coriander Naan. Clive asked for a Keema Naan. The order became two of each.

A Salad featuring Lemon Slices was presented accompanied by a Raita and a suitably Spicy and Flavoursome, Red Sauce. This relatively – Modest Salad – proved to be a hit, it was devoured, the Red Sauce being particularly appreciated.

The Restaurant was filling up. At one time, people were queueing at the counter. Every table was occupied, Kebap various, being the major attraction. Ricky pointed out that Hector was the only Scotsman here, possibly true.

Two laden Karahi were presented with the first Chilli and Coriander Naan. The remaining Karahi arrived soon after, then the Breads one at a time. As the pile of Bread grew I wondered as to what we had done. Who would/could eat all this?

The Karahi were full, however, I still question as to how what lay on the table was – Two Kilos? This amount of Curry we have seen at Yadgar, I have yet to be convinced that this is what is presented at Namak Mandi. Prove me wrong please.

The Naans

The Keema Naans were huge, the Chilli and Coriander Naans not far off, but more manageable. They arrived off the assembly line and hence were – Fresh. Given the quantity, the Breads became communal.

The Keema Naan passed the test, no Pink – Donner-style – Meat here, though as it was impossible to split them apart, the individual grains of Mince could not be shown.

The Chilli Naans gave off a good Kick, perhaps even more Coriander would have been welcomed. Still, they were Light, not Doughy, Ricky would have more to say on the Bread.

Namkeen Karahi

The Meat was served on-the-bone as it should be for a Namkeen, or any, Karahi. The Tomato-based Masala was in two phases: the Thick Masala Mash and the Oily residue collecting around the periphery of the Karahi. Both supply pleasure.

From the first dip of the Chilli and Coriander Naan there was a Big Salty Hit, Tremendous! The Spice in the Masala was aided by the Naan, this was – Nippy – not for wimps. Dr. Stan coughed on his first intake of Karahi:

Something in the back of my throat – he exclaimed.

Ricky kept complaining about the Bones, this was a Curry to chew on, not suck like his favoured Shahi Kofta as served at Bradford’s International.

*

The Flavours were Intense, I reached the conclusion early that this Namkeen Karahi was truly up there with – the best. This very Simple Curry may not suit all, however, if one has acquired the taste for it, I can highly recommend one comes to Namak Mandi.

*

The food is excellent, the Bread is even better – remarked Ricky – as you know, I’m a Bread man.

As I noted this very positive statement, Mein Host came over to check on our progress. This quote was relayed, I could not tell if Ricky’s – Bradford pedigree – meant anything to Mein Host.

In the minutes following Ricky became more circumspect and withdrew the above statement. The Bread he still loved, however, he questioned if what we were eating was really – a Curry.

It was Meat with Masala, so yes. It was unlike anything he had ever experienced in terms of the ingredients. Ricky has had many a Karahi, so he knows the style. One thing we did agree upon:

I presented my observation that the Base Curry in Bradford is way better than that served in Glasgow, but Glasgow offers a greater diversity in terms of style and flavour. Ricky concurred, well, until he reads this and denies it.

Dr. Stan enjoyed the Peppery Flavour He had three more words to say:

A good Kick.

Clive:

That was different, pleasantly different. I wouldn’t describe it as a Curry.

So there we have it, a Curry of Contradiction. Hector has no qualms about rating today’s among the Best, ever. Perhaps on reading these words, Howard will demand a visit, Tracey too? Namkeen Karahi!

The Karahi were wiped clean with the abundant Bread. We left so little Bread. Who ate all the Bread?

The Bill

£57.96. I noted the Chilli and Coriander Naan and the Keema Naan were charged at £2.00 and £3.00 respectively. The Menu I posted last time has Chilli Naan at £1.50 and Keema Naan at £2.50. Is there a New Menu?

The Aftermath

I thanked the Young Chaps who had served us and left another Calling Card, just in case. I hope to add Namak Mandi to my list of Recommended Curry Houses soon, three more impressive visits required.

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Glasgow – Shish Mahal – The Lunchtime Menu

Posted on May 8, 2018 by Hector

Hector last visited the Shish Mahal (60-68 Park Rd, Glasgow G4 9JF) back in 2010, there was no rush to return to one of Glasgow’s oldest Curry Houses. That evening my meal impressed, my fellow diners did not have such a good experience. Friends have been having the Lunchtime Menu here for some time and have recommended this, so why not give it a go? It’s shopping day with Mother, a Lunchtime Menu is ideal.

Arriving at 13.30, a half hour before the end of the lunchtime session, I found thirty diners spread across the two rooms. On my last visit we were shoehorned in, there appeared to be much more space today. The laminated Lunchtime Menu was brought, or rather – Menus. On one side was the – Maharaja Lunch Menu (£9.95) – with the – Sultan Menu (£8.95) – on the reverse.

Our Waiter was upon us rather quickly, before I had time to fully appreciate that many of the Dishes on offer were indeed from the Main Menu. I decided to follow the model which Mother enjoys at The Village and so looked for Pakora followed by a straightforward Lamb Curry. Original Onion Pakora was chosen for Mother from the – Sultan Menu. Madras Gosht – looked to be the simplest – Lamb Curry. The Waiter was concerned that this Curry might be too – Hot – for Mother. He suggested Bhoona Gosht on the Maharaja Menu. We would both have this, with Machli Pakora being my Starter.

Six diners sat at the table to my left, we were sitting closer than we would at any other venue. The bonus was that I could see all of their Order. The Portions impressed, though after the full sized Naan served at The Village last week, I failed to see why the Shish Mahal charges an extra £1.50 for this.

The Machli Pakora had four decent sized pieces of Haddock in a Spicy Batter. Fresh – was noted instantly, this Pakora oozed Freshness. Strangely, the Seasoning was lacking. I poured some of the Red Sauce onto my plate, it was Watery, approaching tasteless. This disappointed, I was hoping to give a boost to the experience. However, I still enjoyed my Fish Pakora. Did I mention – Fresh?

The Onion Pakora came as six pieces, four Large, two Tiddlers. I have paid a Fiver for portions of this size at other establishments. Four pieces proved to be enough for Mother and so I mopped up the remainder. This Pakora was exactly as described – Onion. It was peculiar to have a Vegetable Pakora without Potato. It looked lacking and tasted accordingly. Too much Batter to Onion – was Hector’s verdict.

I’ll get my coat…

Hector had to pop out for a moment to buy another parking ticket, our Mains would be served after 14.00. We would be here longer than anticipated.

On my return, two plates of Rice and two plates of Curry sat on the table.

Bhoona Gosht

Eight good sized pieces of Meat sat in a suitably Thick, and not Excessive, Masala. The Rice Portion was well judged, sensible. I decanted the Curry to the Rice, Mother did the opposite.

The Meat was Tender to slightly Chewy, this is not intended as a criticism. The Curry lacked Seasoning, the Spice Level was decidedly – Safe, what one would expect in a Buffet / Lunchtime Menu. After the full-on Flavours experienced in my last outings at Sarina’s (Queensbury, Bradford) and Kobane (Huddersfield), this Curry was nothing to become excited about. This did not have the depth of Flavour one hopes for. Still, there was nothing not to like. It was Curry, Hector likes Curry.

I enjoyed that – said Mother as she finished the final grains of rice.

Not too much, and I liked the Rice too.

Ice Cream or Tea/Coffee? Mother asked for a cup of Tea, Hector had neither.

I note that the Lunchtime Menu is available until 16.00 on a Saturday. I shall certainly return at my regular 15.00 slot and perhaps even try – Chicken Tikka Masala, after-all, it was invented here. For more demanding Dishes, I think I would stick to the Main Menu.

The Bill

£19.90. A far better price than when I dined here last.

The Aftermath

We were not last out, indeed a Lone Diner had arrived at 13.45. Every Waiter bade us farewell. I quite like it here when the place is not wedged.

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Chicken Patia – Hector cooks a Chicken Curry!

Posted on May 7, 2018 by Hector

Something planted the seed of eating a Chicken Curry last week. A Curry I tend to find disappointing, however, once upon a time Chicken Patia was a regular meal in Hector’s House. When I did my Curry Course all those years ago this was totally different to anything I had made before. Eventually Marg and I grew tired of it. The Recipe for Chicken Patia has been posted on Curry-Heute since the first year. This is therefore the first time I have cooked it in perhaps a decade.

After my poor attempt at replicating the Shahi Kofta as cooked at International (Bradford) I had to get back to basics and make a Thin, Soupy, Masala. The basic Masala remains the same as posted for years in – Beginner’s Curry – Aloo Chicken – but if cooking this surprisingly tasty Curry, then follow the given Chicken Patia Recipe. It is the blended Mango Chutney, Tomato Ketchup and Lemon Juice which gives Chicken Patia its Red-Soupy appearance, plus most importantly, the – Sweet & Sour – taste.

Mushrooms were today’s – Interesting Vegetable – added with that which goes in at the end.

Here is a pictorial account of the Chicken Patia being cooked.

Marg took a modest amount to begin with, she is always unsure as to what is being inflicted upon her. As ever, Marg coughed at the first mouthful and mentioned – the Spice. Today it was certainly not excessive, she recovered and took more.

Regular readers know my thoughts on Chicken Curry, basically Chicken doesn’t. Still, there is enough going on in the Masala to make this work. The Flavours are all in the Masala, the Chicken and Mushrooms are Ballast. I tried it once with Lamb and both Marg and I agreed never again. That did not work. Patia has to be Chicken, or just Vegetables.

So, a success. Next, I have to try and make a really Watery Masala and have another go at Shahi Kofta.

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Huddersfield – Kobane Restaurant – Lamb Qozy, Kurdish Cuisine

Posted on May 5, 2018 by Hector

Yesterday I took a different route from Huddersfield Travelodge t’Bus Station and passed a couple of interesting venues for the first time. As with all Curry Houses in Huddersfield, Alishaan was not open at lunchtime, however, Kobane Kurdish Restaurant (8 Bradford Rd, Huddersfield, Yorkshire, England HD1 6HY) most certainly was. Had I not been heading to Sarina’s (Queensbury, Bradford) I would have been straight in.

Checking out at noon, in theory I had a four and half hour wait for my booked train to Manchester then back to Glasgow. A long lunch in Huddersfield was the plan. I arrived at Kobane @12.15 to find one Diner tearing into a mass of food. I was keen to see what was on offer.

A Chap and a Young Lady were sharing front of house duties. The Lady brought the Menu and a bowl of Shorva, this was quite a welcome. Two Dishes on the Menu stood out, Lamb Qozy (£7.00) and Lamb Tashreeb (£6.00). Neither are – Curry – but the latter certainly featured Capsicum and so I thought the Lamb Qozy would suit me more. Fried Mixed Vegetables – were mentioned somewhere. A Side, Rice, Salad and Naan were included, all for £7.00?

The Chap took the Order. I was offered a Side of Beans or Potato.

Potato please.

I ordered a Lemonade as no Sparkling Water was available.

My spoon was wrapped in the napkin provided, handy with a plate of Soup. The Shorva was well Seasoned and had a sense of Spice. A couple of pieces of Onion and a strip of Green Pepper were in there too. The slightly Meaty Flavour was new on the palate, a decent start.

Lamb Qozy

This arrived in no time at all. The Sizzling Platter with two substantial pieces of Lamb on-the-bone impressed instantly. Beneath the Lamb were Onions and Capsicum still frying on the platter. A plate of Rice with presumably Rice Vermicelli was placed in front of me, who could eat all this Rice? There’s more.

Another plate of Shorva with Potatoes was presented, then a large round Plain Naan. This was all for me? For another £1.00 I could have gone – Large. Everything looked splendid, but this early in the day, the digestive system is not fully awake. At 15.00 I might have managed more. Even then, I doubt I could eat this volume. No Salad came, thankfully.

The two pieces of Lamb were arranged on top of the Rice then half of the Potatoes. I poured over some of the Shorva, retaining the remainder for later. I tore off a strip of Naan which had been served whole. Just how good was this?

Dipping the Naan in the Shorva revealed a more – Tomatoey Flavour, not the same Soup then. I used more Naan to scrape up some of the Onion and Green Pepper stuck to the platter, interesting, again something new on the palate.

I used a fork to separate some Meat from the Bone, a simple task, this was really Tender Lamb, no knife had been provided, none required. At last, Flavours I recognised. This was essentially my favourite Greek Lamb Dish – Kleftico – with added Cloves. This Lamb had been slow cooked then somehow revitalised on the platter. I tried to make a dent in the Rice and Vermicelli. The Naan was ignored.

The Potato had absorbed the Tomato in the Shorva. So by this time I had the Lamb, the Mixed Vegetables, the Potato, and the Shorva each with their own distinct Flavours. Diversity? This array was rewriting Curry-Heute.

This was not – Curry, Spices had most certainly been included, but as Flavourings, not to create – Heat. This Lamb Qozy was my first, it most certainly will not be my last. Finally, I have found an establishment in Huddersfield which is open at lunchtime and sells fantastic food.  I have also therfore managed to avoid – Curry – on two days this week.

With half of the Rice and two thirds of the Naan remaining, I called a halt. The Serving Chap had gone to the back of the open kitchen and so I approached the Young Lady. She led me back to the till at the doorway.

The Bill

£7.75. What a feast, what a price!

The Aftermath

I introduced myself and was invited to take photos of the Menu. I thought I had taken full page shots, not extracts, next time. Hector had been trying to be discreet on arrival. The Kitchen Staff were evidently happy to have their photo taken.

Hopefully I shall be back on May 30th, a Big Day for someone in – The Company.

A well-timed text enticed me to Manchester earlier than planned. So it goes.

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