Bradford – Punjab Sweet House – The Return

Posted on December 30, 2013 by Hector

Huddersfield for New Year? Again?

They’ll never let Hector away with it. Glasgow to Huddersfield must mean a Stop-off for a Bradford Curry. Marg, Craig and Yvonne had never heard of Punjab Sweet House (122-126 Listerhills Road, Bradford, BD7 1JR), now it is well and truly on their Radar.

It was just after 17.00 when Hector pulled up outside Punjab Sweet House having negotiated his way through Bradford in the Dark. It had been Dark all day, a horrible drive South. A Sunset over Morecambe Bay was the only let up.

Unusally, at this Bradford Curry House, one pays for Poppadoms and Breads, however the charge is Modest. 30p for Poppadoms, 30p per Chutney/Dip and 60p for Roti.

Rice is not included either.  Hector could not resist the Keema Paratha (£2.50), The Experiment continues.

Craig was the only person up for a Starter per se, the Rashmi Kebab. This looked to Hector like a Chicken Seekh Kebab. The Regular Readers will know that this was to be Hector’s First Curry since Friday. Zero Intake over the rest of the Weekend. Last Friday’s Extravaganza at Yadgar had led to Virtual Starvation over the last three days. The Punjabi Sweet House offers Mains as Regular or Large. Why doesn’t everywhere? The Menu was not particularly Extensive at First Glance, however the Number of Hector Options was Six. Six potentially ideal Hector Curry Dishes, only in Bradford. Karahi Meat Achar won over a repeat of Karela Gosht, Bhindi Gosht and Fish Karahi, Karahi Gosht and the nearly chosen Karahi Meat Ginger. The Menu is Outstanding, I cannot eat The Menu.

Marg and Craig both chose Fish Karahi, Yvonne went for Prawn Karahi. The Ladies ordered Roti, The Man – Pilau Rice.

The Two Poppadoms and Pickle Tray (£1.50?) disappeared whilst Hector was dealing with an irate Ricky who had guessed a Bradford Curry would be part of the Hector Ritual. I could never give him an accurate ETA. The Spanish Terrorists would arrive in Bradford when Traffic, Weather, the slow A65 and Coffee stops permitted. Yvonne said the Poppadoms were Greasy.

Craig’s Kebab looked a good Portion size for the Price. He thoroughly enjoyed it. He was now in the Mood for Curry.

The Waiter Cocked Up

Two Prawn Curry Dishes were brought. The Waiter realised the error and was prepared to fix it, however, Craig decided to take the extra Prawn. In the end he and Marg shared the Fish and the Prawn. Yvonne enjoyed her Prawn Karahi. Tasty and Light – is what she was after, exactly what was provided. Craig kept repeating the phrase which never appears in this Blog. He was thoroughly enjoying his Prawn/Fish. I’ve never had a Bad Bradford Curry – he also said more than once. Well done, Hector! Marg – Very Tasty, Flavoursome. I enjoyed the Sweetness of the Prawn. Everything had a Kick. She was also taken by the fact that the Fish was served Flaked and not Whole Fillets as served at Home.

Karahi Meat Achar – Large

This is a Dish Hector will never forget. I have had a few Achari Dishes this Year, never has the Pickle been so – In Your Face. This Dish had Potency, Flavour and Quantity. The Lamb was cut Small, Bradford-style. Occasionally the Root Lamb Curry came through, when it didn’t the Pickle Blast was Stupendous. Bradford Curry.

The Keema Paratha had the Flat, Pink Meat that I findl less appealing.  Perhaps this Experiment has now reached a conclusion.  I prefer Aloo Paratha.  The Paratha itself was Fine.

Who is Flying the ‘Plane?

I had to try the other Two Dishes. Marg kept me a Prawn. Indeed, the Sweetness was evident. Pleasant. I only had a Soupçon of The Fish Karahi. Bloody Hell! This was Outrageous. Despite the Hector Palate having Overdosed on Pickle this was again Outstanding. I shall have to return for this. Sixteen months since my last visit. #3 will be in February, Guaranteed!

The Bill

£46.25. Less than £12.00 per Head. Bradford Prices.

The Aftermath

Ricky, Our Man in Bradford and Dr. Stan had been informed about another Wonder Curry House and were reportedly heading off to Who-knows where? Time may well reveal this New Venue. The Words – Blood, and Stone come to mind.

Meanwhile we checked in to the Huddersfield Travelodge, Craig found a familiar street name. We are Home.

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Yadgar – The Party

Posted on December 27, 2013 by Hector

August 14, 2010, Hector’s first visit to the Yadgar Kebab House (148 Calder St., Govanhill, Glasgow, G42 7QP), the rest they say – is History. Well not quite, the Ongoing Pleasures that this most Underrated of Curry House delivers are Legendary in these Humble Pages. As has been written oft, this place should be queued out the door. Within the first weeks of the earliest visits, Shkoor, the Owner’s Son was in touch using Social Media. His Friend, Ahmed in Islamabad, had found the Curry-Heute Website and had advised them of my Rave Reviews. I met Ahmed last year for the first time. This evening was our second encounter. He has Seven Days Vacation per Year and spends them in the UK. Eating at Yadgar appears to be the Highlight. In tow this evening from Pakistan was Dr. Dr. Awais. Yes, Dr. Stan and Dr. Rick, – Dr. Dr Please!

Dr. Dr. Awais, Ahmed and Shkoor were all in the Class of 19??. Accompanying them this evening was another from the same era and locally resident – Raza.  Raza and Hector’s paths must have crossed, we eat in the the same places. I was amused when Raza admitted that when he goes to Akbar’s even he is asked if he wishes his Food to be Cooked Asian-style. Ahmed assured me that others may join, indeed, Fraz arrived showing great timing just as the Food was becoming Serious.  We discused Blogs.  I related how it was Ahmed who informed Hector that if one Googles – UK Curry Blog – guess who comes up first?  He tried it, it worked –  Curry-Heute!

Unbelievably we spent the First Hour chatting about Curry, my Favourite Topic, over the Various Salads and Dips that kept coming. A second Salad Anyone? A Bowl of Dahi Bhali kept the Intros Interesting. I’ve had this before, a Refreshing Yoghurt-based Dish. The Previous Evening the Core Four had Dined on Chops, Fish and Karahi. There were Photographs to prove it. Who takes Photos of their dinner?

Just when Hector started to think that we were having The Vegetarian Option the Kebabs were presented. Chicken and Lamb Seekh Kebabs. More of The Same came soon after topped with Chicken Chapli Kebabs. This was just the Beginning. A Plate of Lamb Chops was placed Proudly on the Table.

Hector first had Lamb Chops at Yadgar on Ahmed’s last visit. Lamb Chops Achari has become a Firm Favourite since then.

The Chops in a Karahi are of course Boiled. This was my first encounter of Yadgar Grilled Chops. They looked much Paler than those served in say Bradford’s – The International or Akbar’s. By this time it was evident that there were two People sitting around the table with Voracious Appetites. It was anticipated that Dr. Dr. Awais and Hector would do the Most Damage. Raza, Fraz and Ahmed nibbled, We Ate, a Man after My Own Heart. We also dissected what was before us. Yoghurt and Cumin was my Interpretation. To this Dr. Dr. Awais added – Ginger, Mint and Garlic. Hog Heaven. By now we had an Audience.

And The Food Kept Coming

A Bowl of White Lentils was greeted warmly – Daal Maash. Ahmed explained that each Lentil Grain should be seen to be separate. There should also be no Oil collecting at the Base of The Bowl. This was Perfect.

Earlier in the evening I had related my recent Dabbling in Keema Paratha. I described how the so-called Mince appears to be Donner Meat. Shkoor knew instantly what was happening – They’re using Cooked Mince. When it is put in the Bread and Flattened it is spread out and gets mashed together. This creates the outcome which I find unsatisfactory. Behold the Yadgar Keema Paratha! It was immediately Dissected. Daal and Mince and not a Pink Mass. The Seasoning was Spot on. This I could eat with a Vegetable Curry and be quite content. Enough Vegetables, here comes the Main Event.

Two Large Karahi emerged from The Kitchen. There was speculation that they may be different, however, we were assured that both Karahi were identical. This meant Dr. Dr. Awais and Hector would take care of One, whilst The Nibblers addressed The Other. Shkoor had now joined us, we were Six.

Namkeen Karahi

Hector has a new Word, I shall be trying it out in every North Indian/Punjabi Restaurant from now on. Namkeen is Salt. Regular Readers know the importance of Seasoning in Curry. This Dish comes from the NW Frontier, heavily influenced by the Cooking from Afghanistan. Indeed, this is what The Khyber served up so magnificently until their recent closure. With The Experts beside me, I was told that this is The Simplest form of Karahi. The Lamb is cooked in Water, Oil, Salt, Green Chillies and Black Pepper. There was no Onion or Tomato as The Khyber would have served. This Dish must have taken Hours to Cook. With the Lamb on-the-bone it was a Sheer Delight. Our Audience departed – Are You lot still eating? They had eaten well, we were having – A Yadgar Party!

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Aberdeen – Shri Bheema’s – Belmont St.

Posted on December 26, 2013 by Hector

There was an exchange of information at lunchtime. Graeme asked me where I thought the Best Curry was served in Aberdeen. Echt Tandoori, Aberdeenshire – was my reply. He was immediately interested, Hector was the third person to tell him this. He will be headed there soonest. He advised me that the Locals in The City of Aberdeen consider Shri Bheema’s (15-17 Belmont St., Aberdeen, AB10 1JR). For Hector’s final meal of this Aberdeen Sojourn, it had to be tried.

Marg and Hector climbed the stairs in Belmont St. to the Curry House. A vestibule was unmanned, a small room lay off to the right. A Chap appeared – Do you have a Booking? There was no sign of any other Customers. Did we need one?

We were taken through a narrow gap separating the vestibule to the main dining room, a group of eight, with young children were in the midst of Curry eating. Together we would occupy ten of the estimated fifty available seats. We passed perhaps four more other staff members, each one gave a smile and nod of welcome. So far so good.

We were shown to a smallish table for two on the opposite side of the room from – the Group. They were sat at the window overlooking the chasm which I’m told will not be redeveloped. For once – The Planners – are not to blame for this lack of action. With Menus in hand, The Waiter tentatively offered us Poppadoms. Only having read The Menu to the very end did Hector discover the final entries under – Extras. Poppadom, £0.99, Dipping, £0.99. Well that was £3.98 saved already. Not so impressive

Indian Breads

Hector has written before about Aberdeen Curry Houses upping the cost of Bread to seemingly ridiculous levels. £2.49 for a solitary Chapatti is not on.  No Chapattis for us tonight.

As we all know, in Bradford Three Chapattis are included in the Price of every Curry, or Paratha/Naan/Rice depending on choice. Anything more than £1.00 for a lump of Dough is Profiteering in The Book of Hector. And so Paratha for Hector (£2.99) and Naan for Marg (£2.99) it would be. They had better be Huge.

Marg considered a few Curry Dishes before deciding on Butter Chicken – Chicken cooked with onion, tomato in a creamy sauce with herbs and spices.

Shri Bheema’s is a South Indian Restaurant. Dosa, Oothappam, and Sambar all feature. Not my style. For Hector, South India means one thing – Chettinad. Only Lamb Chettinad was mentioned on the Menu, no sign of Fish. Dear Reader, excuse The Hector for a moment whilst I recall the splendour that is the Fisch Chettinad served in the Indian Mango, München. Indeed there was only One Fish Curry (cooked in a rich brown gravy with herbs ans spices.) No thanks. The Lamb Chettinad had a Three Chilli rating – Lamb cooked in a traditional South Indian curry sauce and made from ground spices, coconut and curry leaves. A possibility. Lamb Kadai was another Dish which caught the eye. Lamb cooked in a traditional kadai on a high heat mixed with onion, tomato, ginger, garlic and spices. The Dreaded Green Mushy Vegetable was not mentioned in either Dish. I would take advice.

The Young Waiter stated that the Kadai would have Green Pepper (only in Aberdeen and Berlin has Hector encountered this pathetic statement) and that it would be cooked in a Wok. A Stir-fry by any other name. I had made my request for – as Dry as The Chef can cook a Curry. Why do Chefs believe the Karahi/Kadai has to be prepared in this manner? Could The Chef not hold back the Capsicum? I sensed that better communication between Waiter and Chef could have been in order. I could also have adopted the Hector role more emphatically to secure The Hector Curry. The Chettinad was dismissed by The Waiter as – it would have sauce. He offered the Bhuna as a Dry Alternative. This I ordered – blind. So, no Fish Chettinad for Hector.

The offer of Poppadoms was declined for the second time. Hector had his usual Sparkling Water, Marg was given a Pint of Soda and Lime. The Prices of the Soft Drinks were acceptable. I spotted the offer for a 750ml bottle of King Cobra at 7.5% for a modest £8.99. Who has decided to unleash this on The British Public?

The Group left, another similar sized Group arrived. I was amused when the Specials Board was changed from a Curry to a Turkey Dinner. Just what the People of Aberdeen need on Boxing Day. Boxing Day, possibly one of Hector’s Favourite Dates in the Calendar – 364 Days until xmas.

The presentation of the plates preceded the arrival of the food. The plates were warm! The Paratha was very Modest in size but looked very Fresh, perhaps slightly underdone, surely it needed to be – Better Fired? (Update – a White Paratha!) The Naan was halved and looked on the Dry side. Marg was on board with not paying the surcharges for the Naan Variants.

The Butter Chicken had a smile, made from the late addition of Cream. This looked as if it would please Marg, it did. Creamy with a Kick, was her description. My second best Butter Chicken, ever! Her favourite remains Mother India’s Café (Glasgow). Still, praise indeed.

The Masala in the Bhuna was suitably Thick. One still would have hoped for Less. At first the portion looked a but on the Small side, but the Lamb was cut Large, there was sufficient. The first dip of the Paratha brought instantaneous pleasure. Curry with real Flavour, here we go.

One couldn’t help analysing the content. The Dish was very aromatic. (Green) Cardamom were very much to the fore with something lurking in the background. Cinnamon came to mind, however, Mace was read when the studying The Menu later. In terms of Mainstream Curry this could not be faulted. A Very Good Curry indeed.

The Young Waiter approached as we were both mopping up the final grains of Masala from the metal bowl. He asked if his recommendation was good. He saw the evidence for himself.

The Bill

£31.23. With Poppadoms this would have been way more than anticipated, we had avoided the potential rip-off. The Breads were expensive but were balanced by the reasonably priced Soft Drinks.

The Aftermath

The Calling Card was presented, another Chap came over.

This was The Best Curry I have been served in Aberdeen for Years.

He was pleased to hear this. We only have 100% Indian Chefs.

Fish Chettinad was discussed. I mentioned  Indian Mango. I am assured they will be able to have a go next time. There will be a next time.

The Takeaway Menu confirmed 65 seats on these premises. There is also a new venue at Bridge of Don with a dedicated car park and seating of up to 80 covers.

 

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Manzil – Aberdeen, A Night To Remember

Posted on December 24, 2013 by Hector

This is the Fifteenth consecutive year that Hector has enjoyed a Curry on the Eve of Marg’s Favourite Day of The Year, or – xmas – as I can just about force myself to call it. To say I could care less would be appropriate. Still, I need a new Pair of Sox, and in Two more Days I might even have a Bier. Yes Hector is full of The Festive Spirit. Five Hours in Glasgow Airport on Friday followed by another Five Hours at Heathrow Yesterday (after Two Hours in Düsseldorf) has placed me in a Very Relaxed Zone. Dr. Rick sent an email suggesting I should have realised the gods were sending me Signals.

The Trusty Samsung was struggling to Communicate with Base as we drove into the City of Aberdeen to select a New Curry-Heute Experience. Over the past Fifteen Years Various Venues had Risen and Fallen in my Estimation. I have no allegiance currently to any Aberdeen Curry House, hence the motivation to try somewhere new. The Lahore Karahi has never lived up to the Level of Expectation. The Jewel in The Crown is surviving on Former Glory, it is not what it was.

Nawaabs is Fair to Good. The Nazma Tandoori   disapointed in the last visit, Hector having previously held it in High Regard. There are a few newer Flashy Joints in the Union St. area, Hector likes Curry, not Flash. Curry-Heute currently recommends no Aberdeen Curry Venues, but to the West lies the Echt Tandoori – which in 2014 may achieve Recommended Status.

The Manzil Restaurant (22 King St., AB24 5AX) is a Venue we have driven past en route to the Lahore Karahi, it is years overdue a visit. I phoned to ensure they had a Table for Two. On entering we found ourselves to be the First Diners of the Evening, it was just after 18.30.

Window Dressing

There were Five Booths seating Four along the window, we were placed in the middle. For once this was appreciated, a Paraffin Heater sat adjacent. Aberdeen in December, not a Warm Place. The Waiter asked if we wished The Buffet. This was declined. With a Quiet Evening in prospect one wonders how a Restaurant can serve a Buffet. The new system of order anything from The Menu at a Buffet Price would surely be a better tactic all round?

The Buffet is served Seven Nights a Week, £13.95 on a Friday and Saturday, £12.95 for the remainder. The Manzil Website describes this as a Gourmet Buffet. To what extent this is justified Hector shall never discover.

The Menus were brought and The Complimentary Poppadoms and Dips. I shall highlight the Plurality of the Poppadoms, one each. The Accompanying Lime Pickle, Mango Sauce and Spiced Onion was, shall we say, Minimalist. Hardly enough for One, but at least there could be no question of these sneakingly appearing on The Bill later.

Marg was taken by the Nentara which mentioned Mehi (another spelling variant) and Finely Chopped Onions. How often does Marg end up with Big Blobs of Onion which she does not enjoy? Two Chapattis (£1.50) to Accompany.

Dare Hector order the Lamb Karahi? The Menu made no mention of Capsicum/Paprika. I am in my Homeland, I should have no problem communicating my Desired Dish. I asked the Waiter to ensure that No Capsicum were added. I asked for the Karahi in Lamb and to be served Spicy. Having established that Fresh Methi was on the Premises, I asked or Extra Methi. Finally – I don’t want Soup, can I have the Karahi as Dry as The Chef can make it please? The Mince Paratha had to be tried.

I could just about hear one Waiter relate this Complex Order to another.

I could just about hear

Meanwhile a Couple with Two Young Children had entered and were sat in the corner Window seat. Four Adults also arrived to be sat more into the room. We were in a Triangle, equidistant from the Paraffin Heater. The latter Group opted for The Buffet, I could tell as they were eating very quickly. Meanwhile the Family were attracting Needless Attention. One Child was climbing all over the furniture, well around the window. The other was Banging. Well I assumed it was the Child and not The Parent. Bang, Bang, Bang went the Cutlery on the Formica Table. This made a sufficient Racket so as to amuse the Perpetrator. The Parents did nothing. Whilst the Parents were discussing what type of Flour was used in the preparation of The Breads, The Cutlery was now being Scraped across The Table. I felt sorry for The Waiter. To The Floor, Crash. The Cutlery landed on The Floor. End of, I hoped.

But no, Bang, Bang, Bang, Bang, Scrape, Scrape, Scrape. This went on and on. I warned Marg I would have to say something. This is simply not acceptable in a Restaurant. We were here – To Dine. In a Café Scenario, Fine.

The Waiter came over and asked if we were ready for our Mains. You can produce them that quickly? I had to ask.

Hector is forced to take Action

Incessant Noise. For the second time The Cutlery hit the Floor. I had to do something. I went over and spoke to The Father. We came here for a Quiet Meal. This Level of Noise is not Acceptable.

The Waiter came over and offered to re-locate us. The Father stood up, Cash in hand and was willing to depart, immediately. I thought The Waiter meant to move us to another seat within the room, however he showed us through to another room which was in Darkness. This was set up differently. Buffet in one room, A la Carte in another? Our Appreciation was Expressed. The Lights went on, Cue The Music! We then had to endure some Murderously Awful C&W Interpretations of songs that weren’t. One has to retain a Sense of Humour.

There was Curry Too

Two Virtually Identical Metal Bowls of Curry were presented. Which one was the Karahi? Where was the Karahi? Both Bowls were placed upon the Candle-Heaters which had previously been set before us. The latter had more Tomatoes, other than that it would have been impossible to tell them apart. So much for – Dry. Marg was given a Plate with Two Folded, Decent Sized, Chapattis. Hector was given the Greasiest Paratha ever seen, it too was folded.

There was a Small Sprinkling of Fresh Coriander Leaves on top of the Karahi, no sign of any Methi, Extra or otherwise. There was a Kick.

The Masala was Rich in Onion (Strips) and Pulped Tomato, if I had ordered Rogan Gosht then this would have been exactly what I would have expected. This was a pleasant enough Curry. Three times we were asked if the Meal was – OK.

Yes, it’s OK – was my reply on each occasion. The Curry was indeed – OK.

The Paratha was disappointing. As in Encounters Elsewhere, a Layer of something resembling Pink Meat was spread across the Interior of the Unleavened Bread. I have mentioned the Grease, if this was Donner Meat then – Ugh, not what was hoped for. The Menu said – Mince. I did not see Mince.

Now Marg had to remark on the Strips of Onion in her Curry. Finely cut – she distinctly recalled from the description of the Nentara on The Menu. How many times in the years of Curry-Heute has Marg ended up with a Dopiaza Variant. Excessive Onion is not to her Taste. However, Marg thoroughly enjoyed her Curry – It was Great, Lovely. A Good Curry with a Good Hint (?) of Ginger.

The Bill

£32.10. This included Two Soft Drinks both served in a Glass therefore maximising Profit.

The Aftermath

The Calling Card was placed beside The Bill.

How much does it cost to advertise? – asked the Young Waiter. Now there’s a question Hector has never been asked before. I believe he misinterpreted what Curry-Heute was about despite me showing him the List of other Aberdeen Curry Houses already reported upon.

Anchorman 2. If one enjoyed the Original, this is certainly worth a viewing.

How does the Beach Cinema survive?

Update December 2015

Manzil is no more.

Maya is the new branding.

Update April 2017

Even Maya has gone, and before I had a chance to visit.

 

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Köln – Mumbai Palace – … probably the Best Curry served to Hector in Köln

Posted on December 22, 2013 by Hector

The Mediaeval Markt was originally the Highlight of the Weihnachtsmarkts, it is no more, though some of the Original Vendors remain. Hector arrived on foot from Reissdorf too late for The Flaming Mo. Two disappointments today. The earlier Curry-Heute could surely be improved upon.

Mumbai Palace (Am Malzbüchel 1, 50667, Köln) was discovered by chance Two Years ago on a walk from Köln-Sud to Mühlen. The chances of finding something Truly Outstanding in the Köln Curry Scene are diminishing. I have nearly visited them all. Is the Curry-Heute Blog taking on Overtones of Train-spotting?

It was after 21.30 on a Sunday Evening. There was nobody there. The Waiter looked Surprised when The Lone Diner emerged from the Pouring Rain. Good timing on my part.

€3.00 for a 0.3l Bottle of Sparkling Water was again on the steep side. It was all they had. A Chapatti at €1.90 did not endear itself, nor was one ordered. No Paratha were available.

I negotiated a Dry Curry, in English. No Sauce? – was the reply. We agreed on Minimal and Spicy, and Definitely No Capsicum. He wrote this down. Lamb Bhindi was the choice of Curry. In English, The Menu clearly stated they would listen to anyone’s Particular Requirements. The Waiter had, but appeared to be in a hurry. Maybe they thought they were closing early?

Once again the Tea-Light Heater was placed on the Table, it’s the Köln way. A Huge Portion of Rice accompanied-– wait for it a – Dry Curry! This looked the part, perfect, at last. Now of course it was Under-Seasoned and needed Methi to make it Outstanding. But, Hector had been deprived of Real Curry. This was bringing out The Positive Waves from the Start.

There was a Kick.

Spicy was asked for, Spicy came. The Kick kept coming. This was Great, a Spicy Curry in Deutschland! The Lamb was Interesting, not Boiled for Days. It was Tender but retained some Firmness. The thought that this could be their Tandoori/ Lamb came to mind, but it did not have any feel of having been Marinated. I did not count the Lamb pieces, there was Loads, no need. The Masala, ah, I can use this term again, was delightfully Onion and Tomato Rich and Thick. In the Dry style Hector craves. Only The Bombay has ever produced a Curry like this for Hector in Köln. The Duck I had there was definitely Stir-Fried. I do not believe this was. The Okra was cooked to perfection, still a bit of Firmness, unlike when I cook it. So many Positives. Ideally it needed an Infusion of something, Methi would be obvious. Still, probably the Best Curry served to Hector in Köln.

I shall be back.

Whilst I ate I could here a lot of scraping sounds from the Kitchen. Nobody had ordered a Takeaway to my knowledge. A Staff Curry?

The Bill

€18.90. The Prices are going in the right direction.

The Aftermath

I had to ask the origins of Mein Host. He said he was Indian. I told how much I had enjoyed the Bhindi Gosht and asked if they used Methi/Fenugreek in any of their Recipes. He looked blank. He had never heard of this Magic Herb.

I asked about Staff Curry. Again, not an eyebrow stirred. Nope.

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Köln – Himalaya Restaurant

Posted on December 22, 2013 by Hector

Walking up Severinstrasse from Reissdorf, Hector stumbled upon another Köln Curry Outlet which has not Bubbled-up on any search engine.  The Himalaya Restaurant (Severinstrasse 52C, 50678, Köln) was empty.  Not a Soul.  However, the Window Display caught the eye, I was straight in.  A Takeaway Menu was secured.

The standard was very much Pizza – Kebab – Curry. Cafe in style, one would not come here To Dine.  The Indian Curry Basmati House opposite Reissdorf has a much Greater Ambience even though it too is Cafe-style.

Hector has never seen just Large Bhaji, the Spinach was to the fore. I went in, they do Curry as well.  This must be checked out in the future.

The Summer of 2014 is the next Opperchancity.

 

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Köln – Rangoli Indian Restaurant

Posted on December 22, 2013 by Hector

There was a Sunday Rendezvous at Gaffel am Dom at 13.00. I had announced previously that I would arrive there as soon a the Sunday Brunch Curry-Heute had been despatched. There are three Curry Houses along the Heumarkt – Neumarkt Axis which I had yet to try. The Plan was to do Two today. I knew the Mumbai Palace opened at 13.00 on a Sunday, I looked Yesterday. At what time would Rangoli (Herzogstrasse 11-13, 50667, Köln) open? I phoned at Noon and got a reply. Evidently they were present. Located right behind C&A on the Main Shopping Drag, Rangoli was not too difficult to find. A Corner Shop, this was quite a Substantial Venue. I now discovered they had been opened since 11.30.

Window Dressing

I walked in and saw a Waiter in the Rear. It was quite a walk. I was shown to a Window Seat. A Family of Six arrived ten minutes later and were sat behind me. Another Lady was shown to the Table in front of me. I know why they do this, but they could have given us each a bit more Privacy.

Hector was Snapping away. The Complimentary Poppadom and Dips were presented. I enthused and remarked that in Scotland we do not generally see Poppadoms with embedded Cumin Seeds. A Good Start. The Pickle was Deadly, the Mango and Raita as Normal. The Taste Buds were well and truly Invigorated. This was washed down with a €4.90, 0.75l Bottle of Sparkling Water. More expensive than Yesterday’s Jaipur.

Karahi Gosht was on The Menu. I had to have it. What’s more the Dreaded Paprika, by which Moniker – Capsicum – hides itself in Deutschland was not listed in the Ingredients. I made no reference to it when ordering. An Alu Paratha was also available, so even allowing for the Inclusive Basmati, I felt Hungry enough to justify this.

Whoever has financed Rangoli has invested a Tidy Sum. Whilst the Décor is quite Plain, it was Tastefully Laid Out. Were the Window Tables really meant to sit Four, or just Two comfortably. The People behind had an Extension Table added to theirs. Crammed in. More Staff appeared. Perhaps this Venue picks up during the day? I always hope that the Discovery of another Indian Mango (München) is imminent. The Sense of Anticipation was Gripping.

The Heart sank when the Curry was placed on top of the Heater. Karahi Gosht I suppose, only has to be Lamb served in a Karahi. Once can interpret this how one wishes. I have had it ranging from Stir-Fry to this – Lamb Swimming in Soup. Still, there might be Flavour.

I dipped the Paratha in the Masala, no Spice and no Flavour hit the Hector Palate. Under-seasoned. Ah, Slivers of mostly Red Capsicum and Green. Why?

By now I was formulating if I should create a – Scale of Blandness – but wait… Salt was emerging, the Alu Paratha to the rescue once again. Flavours were being detected. A Little Kick, Black Pepper was my best guess. There was now a Pleasant Sensation, no longer – Bland – but still not good enough to make me ever wish to return here. This may be Their Interpretation of Karahi Gosht, it ain’t Hector’s.

The Bill

€21.90. A few Euros off the price would not have improved the Curry.

The Aftermath

The Calling Card was handed over. It appeared to mean nothing.

I met up Maggie, Clive and Jonathan. There would have to be another Curry-Heute.

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Köln – Indian Curry Basmati House

Posted on December 21, 2013 by Hector

Clive and Maggie had Rumpsteak and Krauterbutter on their minds, not Curry-Heute. Jonathan would probably have had something along these lines also. Reissdorf – Altes Brauhaus was closed to The Public. A Private Function on a Saturday Night at the Start of the Festive Season? Who planned that? Hector’s Plan was to let his Three Companions have their Steak whilst I ate alone across the street at the oft visited Indian Curry Basmati House (Severinstrasse 40.  50678, Köln).

I have never seen this venue so busy. We squeezed on to the end of a Table before being invited moments later to our own more Spacious Location at the rear of the Restaurant. The Laminated Menus were already on the Table. Being the Second Curry of the Day, something a Bit Different was called for.

Jonathan decided to try the Vegetable Pakora. At €1.50 per Portion, this would be Interesting. He would follow this with Lamm Saag and a Keema Naan. He was told about the Inclusive Basmati. Clive ordered one of his Favourite Curry Dishes in Mainstream Outlets – Chicken Dansak. Maggie went for Chicken Mushroom which sounded more Chinese than Indian.

Lamm Limone

This Dish was at the end of the Lamb section and was labelled – Neu! Now The Menu clearly stated Süß–Sauer Sauce – Sweet & Sour. Hector’s mind considered the presence of Lemon could be dominant and create a good Citrus Flavour. Achari appeared nowhere on the Menu, maybe this could be along these lines. Vielleicht.

I asked the Waitress for Scharf and Trocken. She insisted the Curry Came with Sauce, we compromised on – Minimal.

Clive and Hector ordered a Roti each.

The Open Kitchen runs down the right side of the Restaurant. That which has been prepared earlier is clear for all to see. The selection of Spices and Add-ins can be observed as the Chefs work their Magic – The Curry Trick – as is performed in the vast majority of Curry Houses. There is no cooking from scratch here. It may well be two years since my last Köln Visit, this is the Curry Venue I have come to Favour. It is not really Outstanding in any way, just Surprisingly Competent.

The Pakora, Two Bhaji-like Bits, disappeared very quickly. I’m not worried about the Main Course – was Jonathan’s comment. He knows the Rule of Starters. Jonathan was pleased with the Appearance of his Lamm Saag. There was a Spinach Presence rather than a Domination. The Sauce had a good, Rich Taste though it was slightly lacking in Spice. The Lamb added nothing. I did see the Keema Naan but lost all track of it thereafter. The Roti were Small, fine as a Rice Accompaniment, and they did not Crisp.

The Chicken Mushroom was described by Maggie – Wonderful! Lots of Mushrooms, different Layers of Spices. The Portion was Enormous. There was a Kick. Let me remind The Reader that Clive and Maggie have been to India, they can spot The Pretenders. Clive described his Chicken Dansak as – One of the best Dansaks I have ever had, if not possibly, The Best. I am certain he said this the last time he had a Chicken Dansak in my presence. How does one work the Search Function in this Website?

Lamm Limone

The Lamb was Swimming in the Sauce, so much for Minimal. There was no Great Kick despite having asked for Scharf. The Sweetness was the first thing to strike the Hector Palate, however, the Citrus came through. Bits of Cardamom and other Solids were picked out. There were Nine Pieces of Very Tender Lamb which had just met the Masala as it was being served. The Masala had to work overtime, there was quite a Variety of Flavours. If this was Sweet and Sour it was quite a departure from the Patia served in the UK. This Curry was a departure from my norm. It did have Flavour. Not bad at all.

We were four contented diners, and only one originally had Curry on his mind.

The Bill

€46.30. This included Three Soft Drinks. Café Prices.

The Aftermath

The Waitress who was there in the past has gone. She started to recognise me, especially when I presented the Calling Card. I wonder if the People here tonight are the same as those previously encountered. I am a Tourist, it is difficult to keep track.

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Köln – Jaipur Indian Restaurant

Posted on December 21, 2013 by Hector

Hector has been passing the Jaipur Indian Restaurant (Marzellenstrasse 50-56, 50667, Köln) for many years but has never managed to be Hungry when it was open. The Name – Jaipur – used to mean something very special to The Friends of Hector, back in the day when Thornbridge (Derbyshire) used to brew the most outstanding Ales. As life goes, no more.

Even today Jaipur was not my intended first Köln Curry, but a text from First Class on the Amsterdam – Köln ICE informed me that Maggie was hungry, Clive would go to Barabarossaplatz alone to check them in at the Ibis. Jaipur is the nearest Curry House to the Hauptbahnhof, so it goes.

On entering this well established venue, one has to admit to being impressed and even amused by the décor. The walls are adorned with a better class of covering than one sees in most upmarket Indian Restaurants. The life-size tiger is something else. Yes, impressive.

I have read some very critical reviews for Jaipur. The reported indifference by the staff who have allegedly remarked that as it is tourists who frequent the venue, they don’t really care what we think of the food and service. I cannot fault the service at all today. The Waiter offered us a choice of seating area, the window side of the tiger, or the garden side. There appears to be a garden area to the rear where presumably people dine in the summer. Despite Köln being unseasonably warm today, this was not an option. The final food preparation area is behind a glass booth the middle of the restaurant. The Chef nodded in acknowledgement as we passed to take our seats.

Maggie was happy to share a 0.75l Bottle of Sparkling Water at €4.00. The Menu was not pretentiously extensive. What one would expect in a Mainstream German-Indian Restaurant was there. A Bhuna Gosht was Hector’s first consideration, but at the last minute I changed to Lamm Vindaloo. I wanted Potato and I didn’t get my Lamb Vindaloo last night in Amsterdam. Maggie chose Keema Matar. I love the spelling variations.

There was time to take a few photos whilst we waited. A second Chef now joined the first in the glass booth. This is a large venue, only two other tables were occupied.

The Waiter brought the order which was placed on stands with tea-lights to maintain the heat. Always a good touch, so why the cold plates? The Inclusive Rice was to share. As is the German-Indian Custom, there was way too much Basmati.

At €13.00 for a Main Course, there did not appear to be that big a portion. The Lamb was very Tender and sat in the anticipated copious Masala. Two large pieces of Potato provided the required distraction from the Meat. This was certainly at a Spice Level above the Continental Curry norm, there was a serious Kick. There was no real subtlety of Flavour, but this is typically rare in a Vindaloo anyway. Yes, the Curry – Hit the Spot. But still, an Average Curry.

Ah, Bisto!

Maggie’s Mince and Peas looked strange from the start. This Dish is usually served seriously Dry so why the Lake of Whatever it was. I was permitted a sample. Maggie knew she would not finish hers so this portion was more than adequate one concludes. There was an unexpected taste that emerged from the Mince, Maggie thought it was – Beef Stock. Hector even went as far as naming the brand. In Europe it would probably be Magi. (For the record, Hector does not buy any produce from the Nestle stable.) We were amused.

The Bill

€40.00. Exactly as anticipated.

The Aftermath

The Calling Card was accepted with a degree of puzzlement. Maggie saw the Waiter show it to his Boss. Some interest was observed. So, maybe they do care.

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Amsterdam – No Curry-Heute!

Posted on December 20, 2013 by Hector

The Moti Mahal (Nieuwezijds Voorburgwal 34, 1012 SB, Amsterdam) made a Huge Impression with the one and only Curry ever consumed on these premises. That was back in 2011 as part of Hector’s Hollandisch Hootenanny. This is a Tale of No Curry-Heute. The Plan was to arrive in Amsterdam at 21.00 giving plenty of time for Curry and a Bier or two at In de Wildeman, easyJet had other ideas. A two and a half hour delay at Glasgow Airport saw Hector check-in to the Ibis Styles, virtually next door to the Moti Mahal at 23.30. This is when the Moti Mahal closes.

I actually walked past and subliminally saw the End Diners believing the Restaurant was further up the road. It was after the Rendezvous with Jonathan, Lord Clive and Lady Maggie that I realised just how close it was to the Hotel.

The Title of Hector’s Horrible Holiday for 2014 is – Hector Bounces Back. I feel the Trip may conclude with a Flight back from Amsterdam.

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