Curry-Heute

Glasgow – Comedy of Errors at Stereo, plus a First Visit to Spice of the City

Posted on August 24, 2013 by Hector

Life in the Land of Ghosts and Time There Was

It was a long day. The Monthly Trip to The Staggs in Musselburgh meant that Hector was not back in Glasgow until after Comedy of Errors were due on stage. It was just after 20.30 when I entered Stereo in Renfield Lane. Nobody at a desk, no tickets required. Free Entry!

The Band were some twenty minutes into their ninety minute set which featured a cross section of the current album Fanfare & Fantasy released earlier this year, plus Disobey which is now a couple of years old. I had just missed The Student Prince Parts 2 and 3, I would discover later when they closed the set with Part 1. Having only heard Fanfare & Fantasy a few times I cannot say I have been particularly grabbed by it, however Live…! The blend of new and nearly new kept the Gig going at a good pace. Hopefully Joe Cairney will send me thesSet-list as requested. The Highlight of the night was the Encore – Time There Was. This still remains my favourite Comedy of Errors song. I have the vinyl version of the Mini Album (Side 1, Track 2) but have long since abandoned the means of playing it. Somewhere in Hector’s House is a CD version of this and the cassette which followed, released in the days when Joe was absent. I have only heard Time There Was performed Live once, and I have seen Comedy of Errors many, many times since I first encountered them by chance in a basement Bar in Bath St, Glasgow – Shadows. They then disappeared for some years before re-emerging not wanting to be a Progressive Rock Band any-more. Fortunately somebody saw the light recently, meanwhile twenty years had passed.

As I was in no hurry to go anywhere I stayed behind and chatted briefly to Hew Montgomery who has been involved with the Band on a temporary basis in modern times. I was first introduced to Hew of Abel Ganz in Rotherham at The Classic Rock Society by Martin Hudson some seventeen years ago. Next was Jim Johnston, Keyboard Player and Composer of the material. Jim is well through writing the next album, maybe Time There Was deserves an upgrade?

Mark Spalding, formerly Bass but Guitar for many years remembered the second time I saw the Band at a Pub in Paisley. Only three of us turned up. Finally, my first ever conversation with Joe whom I know is soon off to Malta for Ian and Carol’s Wedding. Thomas Bodin of The Flower Kings is also due to perform. Why do I have House-guests next weekend?

My next scheduled Comedy of Errors Gig is also in Glasgow on November 30th when they support Pallas who Produced The Mini Album back in 1986..

Time for Curry-Heute

It was after 22.00 when I entered Spice of the City (48-52 Oswald St, Glasgow, G1 4PL) a City Centre Curry House I have been passing for possibly years. In the Café-style it has been on my radar but with The Village and The New Karahi Palace just across the River Clyde, I have been eating elsewhere.

The place was empty. I tried to take a table for four at the window but was shown to a smaller table in the far corner. The Menu wasn’t vast but there was more than enough choice for Hector. Karelay Gosht and an Aloo Paratha was the order. However the Waiter was back moments later to inform me that – There’s no Karelay left.

Bhindi Gosht then.

The Décor is somewhat Spartan, Functional, an adjective I could also employ to describe the Service. I heard scraping noises from the kitchen. No Takeaway Orders were requested during my wait and so I concluded this was on my behalf. The wait was considerable, my levels of expectation rose. This was not just being chucked together.

After some considerable time the Waiter emerged with The Food. The Aloo Paratha was a good size but very Thin. The Potato had become Lost in Translation.

The Curry was Dry! It looked Amazing. The Blend of Onion and Tomato in the Masala was akin to Stir-Fry rather than a Boiled Sauce. The Lamb could have been greater in Volume but was Tender, very well cooked. The Okra had been cut Small but was Perfection, still a bit Crisp, how I dream of being able to serve it. Some Oil had gathered on the base of the Karahi but added to the Overall Flavour when the Paratha was Dipped. As is the Hector Norm, More Seasoning might have given this Curry – The Wow Factor. The Experience was reminiscent of the Curry served in the aforementioned New Karahi Palace. I must be overdue a return there.

The Bill

£9.00. A Good Price for a Well Above Average Curry.

The Aftermath

I placed the Calling Card on the counter – You can look at that if it interests you. The Waiter had made no attempt at conversation, I did not feel motivated to start one now.

Update August 2015

Hector never returned, perhaps the indifference of the staff stood out more than the food.

The premises are currently being converted into the much flashier – Chennai.

September should bring a review.

Glasgow Chennai Curry-Heute (1)

Glasgow Chennai Curry-Heute (2)

Posted in [Spice of the City] | Comments Off

The New Session Commences at The Akash- Helensburgh

Posted on August 23, 2013 by Hector

Back to work, Aaaargh….

Marg, Eleanor and Hector left the Throng of Assembled Colleagues, time for much needed Food. The Akash (45A Sinclair St, Helensburgh, G84 8TG) remains the Only Place in Town, though word has reached Hector that an application has been made to convert the old Teak & Ash to a Curry House, Flue permitting. The premises below The Akash are no longer a Pizzeria being presently converted to a Bookmakers.

There were only two other customers as we entered Helensburgh’s Legendary Curry House, our usual table on the top left was selected. Mein Host and the Head Waiter greeted us, Hector’s Fifth Visit since The New-co took over. They have done their very best to accommodate Hector’s Curry demands but maybe have not quite achieved this on previous visits. I was considering going Traditional and ordering a Vindaloo or Rogan Josh, but having photographed The Menu I never had a chance to open it. The Waiter came over and stated – I know exactly what you want. So that was it, I was in his hands. For the second time this week I have been tasked with eating what comes. One Chapatti would Accompany, but first there had to be the Customary Chicken Chat.

Marg chose the Lamb Karahi and Eleanor a self-declared indulgence, Butter Chicken. Rice with Cashew Nuts would Accompany this. A Vegetable Pakora was also added along with a Chapatti for Marg.

The Vegetable Pakora at The Akash is always impressive – Served to Perfection – and – No Remorse – is what was recorded. The Chicken Chat now bears no resemblance to the Classic Akash version. With abundant Capsicum and the Chicken served in Large Pieces it filled a Gap but perhaps it is time to consider something new and leave the memory of The Classic Chicken Chat intact.

I have little to say about the Butter Chicken and the Lamb Karahi. The Masala content was way more than I would hope for, the consistency was fine, not runny. I didn’t get to sample either, I was too busy addressing what was set before me.

The Waiter approached smiling, a Magnificently Dark and Thick Lamb Dish was presented. The Methi content was complemented by the Fresh Coriander sprinkled on top. This is what they managed to bring at a second attempt when The New-co took over. The Kick was – Wow – demanding to say the least. I was in the mood for a Vindaloo, this hit the spot. There was a Citrus Burst too, one wonders – Do Hops ‘Curry’? The Lamb was Tender, I recall it not being as good as this on recent visits. This was as good as once could hope for. I had to be impressed. A Methi Gosht Karahi to remember.

The Starter was taking its toll. Rather than force the last Morsels down I decided to take a Doggy Bag with the Masala that remained. This may well find its way into a Hector Curry Creation at a later date.

Jamie arrived and joined us for a Pakora. Very, Tasty, Very very Tasty, I would buy this again.

Mein Host came over and thanked us for coming. We expressed our Appreciation. The Akash is Back! There will be at least another Five Visits this Session.

The Bill

£54.40. Complicated, but in effect Three Mains and Three Starters with Two Coffees and One Bier. Well within Acceptable Parameters.

The Aftermath

There had to be a Photo with The Head Waiter who had spontaneously offered Hector this Memorable Curry.

The Nights are fair drawing in, but it still wasn’t that dark as Marg drove up Sinclair Street…

Posted in [Akash (New-co)] | 1 Comment

Bradford – Sheesh Mahal – A Sadaqat Challenge

Posted on August 21, 2013 by Hector

Get Well Soon, Omar

It was an Unfortunate Circumstance which brought Marg and Hector down to Cheshire at the start of the week. A stop-off in two of our favourite places in Yorkshire en route home was called for. Marg had Coffee and Cake with some xmas shopping to make her visit to Haworth comply with The Ritual. A Bradford Curry at the now Open-All-Day Sheesh Mahal (6 St. Thomas’s Rd, Bradford, BD1 2RW) was Hector’s Treat.

Sadaqat was sat without Customers and without Fuel. He informed us The Gas would be on within half an hour, we decided to wait.

The Wait was less than anticipated. The Complimentary Poppadoms, Salad and Dips appeared, negotiations then began about The Mains. Marg fancied a Lamb Chop Curry, or was it simply Lamb Chops? Sadaqat was in overdrive having had little to do since the start of his shift.

I shall make you a Curry you will never forget. The Full Monty, Asian-style! I reminded Mein Host that he had already tried me on Brains, Tripe and Testicles.

No Liver, I’ll try anything else.

A Special Salad was also mentioned.

As our stay was to be now longer than anticipated the car had to be moved. We were told that the derelict site beside the Westgate is available for Sheesh Mahal customers despite the painted wall warning people off.

Soup Served in Bradford?

Sadaqat brought two bowls of Soup. The British-like Soup. Now the number of times I have referred to the Masala that too many Curry Houses present as the integral part of Curry, as Soup … this was the revenge. Clearly this was from The Sauce Pot, it packed a little Kick and a beautiful taste. Ah, Bradford.

The Salad had an Apple Cider Dressing. The Green Chilli Peppers still had a massive Kick. Fresh and Tangy – was Marg’s verdict, though she stayed well clear of the Chillies.

Lamb Chop CurryA karahi containing five Lamb Chops in a sizzling Masala sat before Marg. We were both wearing white t-shirts…not clever.

Thank you, Sadaqat

Sadaqat brought The Full Monty. A plate-full of – something. Hector was asked to guess. I could spot Egg, Onion, Tomato, Spring Onion, but the Meat? The possibility of today’s joke being – No Meat? – crossed my mind.

It is normal in Bradford to have the choice from four Complimentary Chapattis, a Paratha, A Naan, or Rice. Today, two Chapattis, one Naan and one Plain Paratha were brought. One suspects they were testing the Tandoor. Sadaqat admitted that he had been carried away with his Creation and did not expect me to finish. We could take as much away as we wished. He then described the Meat as being a combination of Lamb, Chicken, Keema, all reduced, plus Boiled Egg and Scrambled Egg all blended. All I had to do was eat it.

The Classic Bradford Taste was present. Apprehension, this was my only concern. My last Curry was Kofta-Egg, this was I suppose a variant, but like comparing Coal with Diamonds. A Fine Creation, an experiment, I was – The Victim.

Meanwhile Marg was swapping between Chapatti and Paratha to engage the Chops. The Masala was on the Thin side. Marg enjoyed three of five Chops. Oh good, that means…

The Bill

Whatever. Sadaqat said he could not charge for my Curry Creation, there was no price for it and it had cost virtually nothing to make. There’s an honest statement. 99p was his Ball-park Figure. In the end £10.00 felt an – Honourable Sum.

The Aftermath

Two Chops, 1/3 Creation, One Chapatti and one untouched Naan headed North.

Anyone want to sample – The Creation?

Three and One Half Hours Later

The remaining Chops and Chapatti were reheated. Gosh. Bradford Curry does it every time for Hector. Is it the Seasoning? I suspect its the Oil. What do they do to it?

Posted in Sheesh Mahal | Comments Off

Sheerin Palace, Glasgow – A Hector@Curry-Heute Recommendation

Posted on August 17, 2013 by Hector

Today’s Saturday ritual Curry-Heute was a no-brainer. After the superb Curry discussion at Shimla Pinks (Stirling) on Wednesday night, it had to be Sheerin Palace (300 Allison St, Glasgow, G42 8HQ). Kofta-Egg at Sheerin Palace had been firmly planted in the mind of Hector. Hardly subliminal.

As is the style at Sheerin Palace, the Dishes on offer were on display. The array was what Hector has come to expect, but still no repeat of Quail since my first visit. Maybe they will contact me next tome they are serving it? The Kofta-Egg sitting in its classic Red-Oily Masala was ordered first. Last time Howard and Hector shared a Fish Dish also. This was available but the Potato and Aubergine looked like a ew experience, today’s Interesting Vegetable.

A Half-Portion please. One Chapatti should be sufficient, they are Large.

Helping myself to the – Southside drink-of-choice – Mango Rubicon, I sat to the left of six tables. Two other Diners were present, two more would arrive.

Mein Host for the day brought a Modest Salad, Raita, a Jug of Water and a Glass. He also provided cutlery and enough napkins to wipe, whatever. Hector was all set.

The Salad was fresh and crispy, at first I thought it was the Raita but then concluded the Fresh Onion was giving – The Kick. No sooner had this consideration been formulated when the food arrived. No need to fear that the main constituents had just met the Masala, WYSIWYG.

Four good-sized Kofta – Meatballs and a single Egg made the portion. My last Kofta (Dundee) was not strong on the taste front, these had it. The Masala as I have written too often for this venue was as well established as Stonehenge, good, old-fashioned Flavours. The first Dip of the mammoth Chapatti soaked in enough Masala to make me wonder why I have not been here for eighteen months. Under-seasoned was also noted, however this viewpoint was soon revised.

The Potato-Aubergine Curry is now reported as Aubergine-Potato, the latter was sadly lacking. Tomato and Onion also featured in this Vegetable Curry Mash, Earthy, as I like it. As a stand alone Dish this would not have been satisfying, as a Complement it defined the term. Some of the Aubergine found its way into the Masala, now we are talking. Between the Chapatti, the Aubergine, the Kofta, the Egg and the Masala the balance of Seasoning reached true perfection. The overall Flavours were not necessarily at – The Wow – level, or were they? The Meal was thoroughly enjoyed.

I thought of The Fish sitting not ordered, uneaten but then thought better.

Not the biggest of portions, but bigger than Tapas restaurants, a happy medium? It’s best to come here and order more than one Dish. The Bill reveals all.

The Bill

£8.20. Rounded down to £8.00. At this price, Everyone can eat here Everyday.

The Aftermath

I wasn’t sure if the two more mature Chaps I had spotted were c. The young chap who had served so capably throughout was who I was dealing with.

I should come here more often – I stated as I approached the counter to pay.

The Calling Card was handed over, for the fifth time. My visits have been sporadic.

Ah, Hector, I read your articles.

After five Visits, Sheerin Palace deserves promotion to my list of Recommended Curry Houses.

In the weeks of my summer vacation I have posted many new venues, perhaps it is time for Hector to get back to basics. I feel the Southside Curry Cafés are all due for another visit.

But watch out for a surprise mid-week Curry Heute…

Posted in Sheerin Palace | Comments Off

Shimla Pinks, Stirling – How to Look after Hector!

Posted on August 14, 2013 by Hector

Photos of Ghosts

That Kenneth has not featured in Curry-Heute before means it is four summers since my last stopover in Stirling and my last Stirling Curry. Traditionally we have always gone to The East India Company now re-branded Shimla Pinks (7 Viewfield Place, Stirling, FK8 1NQ). This evening this not the original choice, when I spotted the Green Gates I was immediately drawn, we don’t live in the past. Unfortunately at 22.02 they did not want us. Closed. Unbelievable.

Our late arrival was down to watching The International. We knew the outcome before kick-off, but twice Scotland took the lead against the Auld Enemy before the inevitable.

Meanwhile at Shimla Pinks four diners were present, just finishing. The waitress, Lisa, told us we were too late for The Buffet. This of course did not matter, we required the Menu. Kenneth likes Pakora and so it was ordered. He also likes Chicken Tikka Masala, no comment required. Pilau Rice to accompany.

Three out of Four

The Karahi Lamb Tikka Bhuna looked as if it was closest to the ideal Hector Curry. A couple of tweeks would be required. I asked Lisa if the Karahi had to have Tikka Lamb, it didn’t. I then tried the Austrian Manoeuvre –

Can I have Potatoes instead of Capsicum?

Not a problem.

Chapattis were priced at a modest £0.85, but after the disappointment of the lack of Vegetables in my last outing, a Vegetable Paratha felt appropriate. Lisa returned moments later to inform me that there was no Tender Lamb left. She did suggest the Staff Curry – Minced Lamb, but I told her that – Keema Mutter had been my last Curry, well last but one. Note the translation, Lisa must have too as shall be revealed shortly. I went with the Tikka.

There was time to take in the surroundings. The decor resembles that of a Drawing Room, Pukka. The History of Scotland is reflected in the portraits hanging on the walls. Hector must still be feeling patriotic. The fellow diners were Spanish. Today was their first day in Scotland and already they have had Curry, Superb!

Kenneth’s Pakora arrived. I permitted myself one piece for review purposes only, that left Kenneth with six pieces. The Pakora was very fresh, none of this half fried and re-fried nonsense that is the custom of many venues.

Chicken Tikka Masala

Tasty and robust – was Kenneth’s informative description of his Chicken Tikka Masala. He ate every grain of rice and cleared his plate. People do like this Dish. Maybe one day Hector will re-visit this, maybe not. Calm, Ahmed!

The Vegetable Paratha looked very attractive, Sufficiently filled with Potato and something Red it did the trick. Kenneth had never seen one and had a nibble too. Impressive.

Karahi Lamb Tikka Bhuna

The Karahi Lamb Tikka Bhuna was not the largest portion ever set before the Hector, enough, just. The Masala was Thick and contained the listed chopped Onions, but on the side was the Potato, Wonderful! The Tikka Lamb was perfectly cooked but here lies the issue. Tikka Lamb can only meet the Masala late on being cooked in a Tandoor. Tender Lamb, one hopes, is cooked for hours, Days in places, in the Masala. Tikka Lamb has its own distinctive Ffavour which can dominate. More Seasoning and Methi and this Dish would have achieved The Wow, it was still pretty good.

Lisa came over, not to ask the usual question but to bring Hector more Curry!

The Chef insists that you try the Keema. I decided to keep it to the end. One Curry at a time.

The Keema had some Spring Onion on top instead of the customary Peas. Very Dry, very pleasant. Again Methi would have put it up there, but come on –

this is service!

At this time I hadn’t met The Chef, but one suspected that he was keen to make his customers happy.

The Bill

£31.00. The price of the Curry Dishes was fine, around the £9.00 mark. But £6.20 for a 330ml Bottle of Cobra and a Glass of Sparkling Water, mmm.

The Aftermath

By now the Reader should have deduced that the Calling Card was very well received. I introduced Curry-Heute and Lisa told us about the restaurant and a bit about herself.

The story of the change of name goes something like this: A Mr. Singh of Nottingham owns this as part of his Curry Empire. The current Management gave up the East India Company. It was briefly operated by others but they took it back. With the exception of that year, Lisa has worked at Shimla Pinks for some sixteen years. She must have served us before. There is no connection with Glasgow’s Shimla Pinks.

In exchange for asking her why so many venues insist on adding Capsicum, Lisa informed me that she does not like Coriander, most unusual. The Capsicum Question remains unanswered. Living in Glasgow’s Southside she knows Yadgar and Sheerin Palace very well, a Regular. The Kofta and Egg served at Sheerin Palace is her favourite though she prefers Yadgar ‘s Chapattis. I must get back there.

Glasgow to Stirling, what a commute. We talked Curry. Hector was in his element, Kenneth sat bemused. When Chef appeared there had to be in farewell photo.

Hector was fed quality Curry and more. I shall be back.

Posted in Shimla Pinks | 1 Comment

Indian Cottage, Merchant City

Posted on August 13, 2013 by Hector

The Prelude

Leaving Blackfriars last night I spotted somewhere new straight across the road from Cafe India, scene of the last Curry-Heute review, so close they even share the same postcode. The Indian Cottage (42 Albion St, Merchant City, Glasgow G1 1LH) is easily missed with the narrowest of entrances and the Takeaway which strangely has a different name occupying the larger street frontage. Until a few months ago this was the Thali Restaurant, one I had never got around to.

I went in to check there was actually a Restaurant and had to walk quite a distance before the Dining Room came into view. The Hostess, lets call her Daisy, was most friendly and we established they were a new operation. I had time to study the Menu and asked if they could guarantee not serving me the dreaded Mushy Green Vegetable in their Desi Dish. I was assured this would not be a problem. It was established that they would be open mid-afternoon today. The Calling Card was presented, I promised to return.

With only a week of vacation left, Hector was determined to make good use of the day. Approaching the Indian Cottage in daylight it was difficult to tell if they were open, I was nearly turning away but found an open door. How many will walk on by? They need a sign on the Pavement.

Daisy was busy with a Rep and so I stood for a few moments waiting to be seated. Seven Diners were already on the premises. I was seated at a small table towards the rear of the long and narrow room. The Waiter gave me the Menu and then disappeared for a very long time. I had plenty of time to study the Menu again. Stick with the Desi? The Rogan Josh sounded appealing, as did the Chefs Special Bhuna. The Karahi mentioned loads of Capsicum, I couldn’t be bothered.

When the Waiter finally reappeared I verified that the Lamb would be Tender, not Tikka and asked that no Capsicum appear in the Dish. Chapattis at £0.95 looked reasonable, however a Garlic Naan at £1.75 was better value.

I had even more time to study the room. It sat about forty with three larger tables on a raised platform along the opposite wall. Daisy spotted me and waved from the far end of the room. I was sat almost under the Speaker, the Noise I could have done without. The Kitchen was back at the entrance as was the Bar. There was a Glossy Drinks Menu left on the table. My Sparkling Water would cost £1.60.

Is that it?

The Waiter brought a Stainless Steel Bowl containing the Desi, and the Garlic Naan, pre-sliced on a plate. I looked into the Bowl, my heart sank. Way down at the bottom of the Bowl was the Curry. I could see maybe four pieces of Lamb initially and wondered if I had been given a Lunchtime Menu Portion. The Masala was in Dark Brown Classic style, a Thick-ish Soup with perhaps a hint of Yoghurt. Fortunately there did not appear to be too much of this either. I did go on to count eight pieces of Lamb in all and so realised there was a Decent Portion.

The Curry looked Pitiful sitting at the base of the Bowl. I wonder what Dish they serve which would fill it?

There was no Vegetable present in the Desi and so Meat and Masala it was, something I try to avoid.

The Garlic Naan was Sufficient, it lasted the duration, but had no great Flavour of Garlic emanating from it.

Time to Dip

The Masala had a Moderate Kick and lacked any Complexity of Flavour. The Lamb was Tender enough. I find myself once more writing that – This was Curry, I like Curry, but…

When the Waiter eventually came over to ask the customary, courteous question I was scooping the final piece of Lamb. It’s OK – was the reply.

The Curry was indeed – OK. Curry, competently cooked, one always hopes for better.

The Bill

£10.70. Now this is approximately half of what I paid across the street. It would appear that the Indian Cottage intends to compete on Price. The Bill stated that there would be a £5.00 reduction for those spending £20.00 or more.

The Aftermath

Around the corner, on Trongate, I spotted Shop-Fitters putting up the signs for another branch of Charcoals. Success breeds Success.

Posted in Indian Cottage (Merchant City) | Comments Off

Glasgow – Cafe India – The Relocated Venue

Posted on August 10, 2013 by Hector

Today Hector finds himself at a Curry House which has been ignored for too long. Cafe India (29 Albion St., Merchant City, Glasgow, G1 1LH) began life in 1987 at an entirely different location. The current Merchant City site came into being after the fire of December 17, 2006 at the original premises on North St., next to the Mitchell Library. The former site was where Hector had his most Memorable Buffet. This must have been in the first year or so of Cafe India in North St. Never before had I eaten so much, the entire company was in pain, never again. Aye right.

Marg and Hector had a mid-afternoon Curry at the Merchant City site not long before the start of Curry-Heute, so this was by no means a first encounter.

Entering around 15.00, seven Diners were in situ at three tables. The premises are spread over two Dining Rooms, plenty of Space. It was obvious one had to stand at the Dais and wait to be seated, there was nobody there. Three Ladies came in and asked me if the Buffet was on. Another Couple arrived. And most Curry Houses are not open mid-afternoon, clearly no demand. The Waiter approached me no doubt thinking I was the Leader of the assembled Group.

A Table for One.

Please take a seat.

Is the Buffet on?

No. (Farewell)

A Table for Two.

Please take a seat.

I found this ritual to be strange. I didn’t sit and was soon taken to the bench table for two where I had sat on my last visit. I chose to face the Open Kitchen and was sure I recognised one of the Chefs. Is he on the Mother India’s Cafe Wall of Fame?

I was given the Lunchtime Menu, two Courses for around £9.00 but immediately asked for the Main Menu. I am in the Merchant City so prices could be higher. I am also fifty metres from Glasgow Cross, prices could be lower. The Karahi was reasonably priced but the description put me off – An Abundance of Capsicums and Onions. Knowing my luck I would end up with a Plate of Onions once the Capsicums were dismissed from the order. This did not leave a whole lot of of choice. I spotted only one Fish Dish, Sea Bass and again the description did not sound particularly Curry-like. This left the Keema Muttar. At £14.95, appreciably more than the other Dishes I gave this lengthy consideration. In the end I decided that I was not in the mood for an Ordinary Curry, it would have to be the Mince. At least the Fulka Chapattis (£1.00) were not at a rip-off price.

All Soft Drinks (Draught) were advertised at £1.85. So they would make their Profit from the modest glass of Soda Water that was presented.

The Waiter took the order – Lamb Keema – he confirmed. I had not spotted Parathas on the Menu and so asked. A Prantha at £3.45 was dismissed. – Two Chapattis, I wasn’t taking the risk of them being pitiful.

Two Chefs were on duty, one would assume more in the evenings. They busied themselves with the now three orders, meanwhile a passing Waiter checked I had been served.

The original Waiter brought the Food. I hope you enjoy it.

I hope so too.

The Peas sat on top of the Mince as if they had just been just been placed there along with the Coriander Garnish. The Chapattis were halfway between Chapatti and Roti and a Decent Size. Here we go.

The Keema had next to no Masala as one would expect, however, the Dish could be best described as Moist-Dry. Eh?

Slightly Under-seasoned the Curry was still very Pleasant but lacked the Methi hit one had hoped for. There was a decent Kick and absolutely no sign of any Oil Lake forming on the Base of the karahi. Oh, and The Peas were hard-ish. One and a half Chapattis was quite sufficient.

Pernickity perhaps, but the Keema Mutter at the Punjabi Charing Cross (North St.) is – Way Better. This version simply lacked – The Wow! Cafe Reesha also came to mind, I must return.

The Staff were courteous and attentive. I was asked more than once if they could get me anything else.

The Bill

£18.80. Welcome to The Merchant City.

The Aftermath

The Calling Card was given to the Waiter who received it graciously.

Posted in [Cafe India] | Comments Off

Balaka Indian Restaurant, Dundee

Posted on August 8, 2013 by Hector

Hector’s last Dundee Curry was at the legendary Gunga Din sometime in the second half of the 1970s, around the same times as the Balaka Indian Restaurant (115-117 Perth Road, Dundee, DD1 4JB) was established (1977). This was not the planned venue this evening, the Malabar just along the road was the the targeted Curry House. Alas, having waited in Aberdeen to have the drive south coincide with their 17.30 opening time, we found the Malabar to be on holiday until August 20. One day.

This left a choice of two nearby. The Dil Se looked to new and shiny for Hector’s liking, the Balaka looked more appealing, a Traditional Scottish Curry House. The Geese Logo inspired me to confirm a translation. Girls and Boys is what came out. Who speaks Urdu?

The Menu, posted in the window was almost off-putting. I have not seen such a Basic Menu since the 1970s. No Karahi here, very little in the way of House Specials, instead all the Standard Dishes which people have enjoyed over the years, and no Fish!

Balaka was staffed by two Mature Chaps who looked as if they could have been here since 1977. The welcome was warm and indeed we warmed to them as the evening progressed. Bombay Mix was set before us, a departure from the norm. Hector tends not to partake, I always have my suspicions about the hygiene levels. Is is straight out the Box, has someone else been there before? Marg concluded the latter as she found very few nuts. Her hunt continued.

Rogan Josh or even the great fall-back, Vindaloo were considered. Marg contemplated the Chicken Balti about the same time as I considered Lamb Balti. However, there was one stand-out Dish – Kofta Curry. I would take advice.

The Waiter was all set to explain what Kofta is, however a polite interruption took us to the chase. The Masala was promised to be Thick. There was no mention of Herbs. Normally the Masala accompanying Kofta would be overloaded with Spinach or better still, Methi. We shall see.

My switch to Kofta saw Marg now select the Lamb Balti. Three Chapattis (£1.10) would Accompany. No Rice? No!

Three other Couples made up the Dining Cohort. One Lady would tell us that she has been eating here since her teens. Hector found the Atmosphere to be relaxing, aided in part by the Aquarium. Hector had the best view of this much to Marg’s chagrin.

The wait for the Curry was appreciated. This was not a classic – Here you are – straight from the pot scenario.

The Balti is still to come

The Chap brought two Platters of Curry and the Chapattis. He then announced that more was coming. We were confused.

We didn’t order three portions.

The Balti came last, a Vegetable Curry had been sat beside the Kofta.

The Balti comes with a Side Vegetable Curry.

Brilliant!

Two Green Chillis

The Waiter pointed to two Large Green Chillis sitting on top of the Balti.

I have to warn you that these are Hot.

They went straight on to my Plate. Indeed they were, and thanks for the Warning!

The Kofta had been covered with bits of Salad, strange I thought, but the limitation of this Dish is that one normally only gets Meat Balls and Sauce, no Interesting Vegetable. I now had access to Vegetables, exactly how I prefer to enjoy my Curry.

Marg once again knew she was defeated before she started and was happy for me to weigh in.

The Kofta, the Balti and the Vegetable Curry all had pretty much the same classic Vintage Curry Masala achieved by either cooking the Onions down for days, or as I would to achieve this texture – by Puréeing. The Colour Red was most apparent as was the high Oil content. It would be easy to criticise at this point, but who am I to criticise this well established Venue which has been Satisfying the Good People of Dundee for nearly Forty Years. Everything looked Traditional, in the Scottish Interpretation of the term.

The Vegetable Curry had a definite Kick which took Marg a bit by surprise. With Potatoes, Carrots, Cauliflower and Mushrooms, almost a Meal in itself.

Being permitted a sample of the Lamb from the Balti I found the first piece on the chewy side, the second was well Tender. Cinnamon was the Flavour which dominated, Pleasant.

Both Meat Dishes were Sufficient. One and a Half Chapattis was also the limit, well presented and good-sized. The Kofta Balls had clearly just been introduced to the Masala, they was no great Flavour emanating from them. One had to rely on the Onion-rich Masala to provide Diversity. The Vegetable-side also helped.

Overall, not an Outstanding Meal but as I have written before, I like to eat Curry and this was Curry!

Marg desired Coffee, somehow the order of One Coffee saw Two arrive. The second was pronounced to be Free. Cheers.

The Bill

£28.30. Three Curry Portions and Coffee, very good value.

The Aftermath

The Calling Card was received gracefully. Warm Farewells were exchanged. A very pleasant venue.

The next Dundee Curry will surely be at Malabar…

Posted in [Balaka] | 1 Comment

Echt Tandoori, Westhill, Aberdeenshire – Outstanding!

Posted on August 6, 2013 by Hector

A Prog Rock Recommendation

The Echt Tandoori (Main St., Echt, Westhill, AB32 6UL, Aberdeenshire) was recommended by whichever person is responsible for posting information on the Pallas information page on a well known social media website. An alternative was sought to what is becoming a disappointing Curry Scene in the City of Aberdeen.

Marg and Hector collected Sandy and Tracey and drove the 25km into the Aberdeen Hinterland to rendezvous with Kenny and Ms X for whom Echt, is local.

We had made a reservation a week before, just as well, at 19.30 the place was stowed. This is a Tuesday Evening? On entering it was noticeable that very table except ours was occupied and would remain so for the next ninety minutes. There was a strong Aroma of Dark Red Chillis permeating the Restaurant, one immediately felt that this was going to be a serious evening of Curry Eating.

The Four who arrived first were offered Poppadoms. This is typically Aberdeenshire speak for – You will be charged for each one and The Dips. In Glasgow and Bradford the better Curry Houses simply bring them. Drinks were sorted. Courtesy of Marg, Hector had a Sparkling Water before he even managed to open his mouth. One hour later with the Mains still undelivered I decided that as we were clearly here – To Dine – a Bier was in order. A Cobra was brought, I wish I hadn’t bothered.

We are here for The Curry

The Menu was quite substantial and being unfamiliar with the contents it had to be studied. Sandy and Kenny ordered Starters, a Vegetable Pakora each. This of course meant that the remaining four would be sentenced for The Long Wait.

Sandy chose Chicken Jhalfrezi, Tracey – Chicken Bengal Exotica, Miss X a Chicken Rezzala and Kenny a Lamb Tikka. (*)

Now Marg had not only studied the Menu closely she was determined to make a decent choice after some pretty poor ones of late. At the foot of the list of House Specialities she found the Shali Lamb Special. This was described as – Tender pieces of Lamb, cooked in double strength sauce, garlic, ginger and green chilli. Below this was the Lamb Deshi Masala – Cooked in strong chilli sauce with methi, cumin, lemon juice. Tangy flavoured. The intended negotiations over a Lamb Karahi were abandoned, the Deshi Masala looked like a Dish fit for a Hector. Methi and Tangy? The Tawa from The Village would provide a useful standard for comparison. The Waiter noted that I wished this to be served as Dry as possible. An Aloo Gobi on the side would hopefully provide Hector with an alternate Taste Experience.

Marg and Hector stayed with our traditional three Chapatti (75p) order. A Garlic Naan, two Plain Naans and a Boiled Rice completed the order.

The Vegetable Pakora

More Bhaji looking than Pakora, the Starters didn’t last long. Presented with a remarked upon small pot of a Yoghurt-based Sauce, those who partook demolished the fare with gusto.

The full hour after the order was taken the Mains were brought. The Presentation of the two Lamb Dishes was well worthy of the Photos. The Young Waiter delivering was amused by the photo record of every Dish. I did stop at the Boiled Rice.

Marg had already started her Shali Lamb Special whilst I was getting myself sorted. She knew she was on a winner. I’m enjoying this – was her opening remark. Curry-Heute does not offer scores out of ten but Marg and Sandy were already outbidding each other.

Sandy had given the Thumbs-up an was impressed by what had been served. This was the Best Curry he had had in some time. The Dishes were covered in Slivers of Fresh Ginger and Threads of what I initially thought was Ginger but now realise could have been Onion. Caramelised Onions featured in the Shali Special, their relative Sweetness appealed to Marg.

I heard Tracey mention the word – Dry.

Dry is good – was my immediate response. Tracey was possibly the least impressed by her order and did not consider her Dish to be particularly Exotic.

Curry-Heute does not consider Chicken Tikka to be an actual Curry Dish. Kenny had been given a reasonable quantity of Chicken but covered in Onion that was on its way to being Pulped. A Side Salad and a Bowl of Soup were also part of this Dish.

Kenny stated that he was as impressed with the Restaurant as he was with the food. Sublime – was his major comment.

Lamb Deshi Masala

From the moment it arrived I knew this Dish had the potential to be Memorable. The Masala was Dry and Thick, exactly how Hector considers Masala should be. With the Fresh Ginger mixed in and the Mysterious Threads, the Texture was unlike anything I have seen. The Lamb was Substantial in Quantity and appeared to have Burnt Tips suggesting Tikka Lamb. However, as this Dish was not in the Tikka section of the Menu I still consider it to have been normal Tender Lamb. If indeed it was Tikka Lamb then it is only the second time this year I have been served done to Perfection.

The First Dip of the affordable Chapatti revealed a set of Flavours which were brand new. Methi and Cumin had been mentioned in the Menu, two of my Favourite Ingredients yet I could taste neither individually. This truly was a Melange of Flavours wrapped into a Singular, and New, Taste Experience. No Comparisons with any other Venue required.

Aloo Gobi

There’s more. As I was not risking being served a Dish without an Interesting Vegetable, the Side had to be included. The Contrast in Texture and Flavours was the Perfect Antithesis to the Lamb. Very Well-Seasoned, this Dish could have held its own against most Mainstream Curry Dishes.

One and a half Chapattis proved to be an Elegant Sufficiency, this was a true Hector Feast.

The Bill

£142.80. We were out – To Dine – in Aberdeenshire. The Base Price of the Curry Dishes and Accompaniments was well within Acceptable Parameters.

The Aftermath

I took the Cash up to the Counter along with The Calling Card. The Card was well received and there was an appreciation that I had come up from the West of Scotland to sample their Curry. I had to explain that Curry-Heute is a Hobby and not a Profession. If only…

Overall, we left with very positive impression. We know that booking is necessary, else the wait could be a long one.

Hector will certainly be back. The Bhoona looks worthy of investigation and I must wrestle with the ubiquitous Capsicum listed in the Karahi.

* Originally posted as Chicken Tikka, my notes said Lamb and Tracey was convinced it was Lamb. Kenny confirmed. Now how did Tracey remember this level of detail?

Posted in Echt Tandoori | Comments Off

Yadgar and Pyraser? – It’s a Barrel Party!

Posted on August 3, 2013 by Hector

The schedule was tight, Deutschland one day, Deutsche Bier the next. Craig and Yvonne were the Hosts. Jonathan had fetched the Barrel of Pyraser Landbier all the way from the Hilpoltstein Hinterland, and Dr. Rick had provided the means of Chilling said Bier. Hector’s contribution was to arrange delivery of Goshat Karahi (off-the-bone) for Twelve from none other than The Yadgar Kebab House (148 Calder St., Govanhill, G42 7QP). Ordering Curry whilst in Friedrichshafen for consumption in Glasgow – ah the Technological Age. The Remaining Seven simply just had to attend.

Cauliflower Sandwich

Dr. Stan was presented with a Cauliflower mid-afternoon to commemorate our last Grand Outing in mid-July to Staveley. Yet another Epic Speech from Hector – There you are!

An Interloper appeared who would not be drinking Our Bier or eating Our Curry. He tells me he has found references to the Curry-Heute website in obscure places but, as yet, has provided no links.

Shkoor delivered the Curry punctually. This is just as well because the Bier had run out minutes before. Twelve Mouths for 30 litres? Not much of a challenge, and those who were not present could have made matters worse.

The Bill

£120.00. A Tenner a head.

Yvonne had prepared the Rice and so the portions of Goshat Karahi were laid out with the accompanying Chapattis. Chicken Tikka on-the-bone, was also provided, brought hot, whilst Samosas and who-knows-what Vegetable Patties were placed in the oven. That these Starters were brought cold was a good idea. Everyone ate their Curry without distraction. Those with room afterwards were sated.

Too Hot to Handle?

My memory at the time was of two people stating they thought the Karahi was too hot, however, close scrutiny of the records show this not to be the case. Which two, of three, could they have been ?

Mags – Really enjoyed it – then upgraded her remarks to – Thoroughly enjoyed it.

Alan remarked – The Meat was very Tender, not Too Hot, and a Fine Texture.

Robin who does not eat the quantity of Curry that he used to knows a good one when he has it – Very Tasty, not in Your Face Hot, but Spicy Enough, I enjoyed it.

Some Like it Hot

Craig, aka Mr. Vindaloo – H – H – H – hit was Superb, right on The Edge. It was Delicious, I’ll be putting The Fire out for three days!

Meanwhile Yvonne who has not set foot in Yadgar for too long said – Absolutely Brilliant! They thought it was Too Hot, I didn’t.

Meanwhile, The Professionals were much more calm. Hector was sitting with Howard, we made an ongoing analysis as we ate. Hector could taste the Distinctive Yadgar Flavours, one could pick this out of a thousand Curry servings. Hector’s Seventh Curry in Seven Days. Howard described – The Intense Lamb Flavours, and Very Spicy, Superb, another Yadgar Success. On Hector and Howard’s last visit to Yadgar we were served up with one of the best servings of Goshat Karahi, ever.

Once I had eaten I went on a sojourn for more remarks.

Dr. Rick – A Spicy Delight. The Lamb was a Face Planting Experience. Perhaps he had done so already, a visit upstairs was required soon afterwards to wash his face.

Dr. Stan – I concur. (Hence the overdose of Pictorial Evidence as to Dr. Stan’s level of enjoyment.)

Steve – Very Good. Have you watched it all over again? Or was he now discussing Breaking Bad?