Hector is Home – Punjabi Charing Cross

Posted on August 2, 2013 by Hector

Marg thought it would be a wonderful gesture not only to pick Hector up from Edinburgh Flughafen, but take me for a Curry-Heute. And why not?

A Grand Yadgar Curry is arranged for tomorrow, so it was time to re-visit what is now indisputably the Best Charing Cross Curry House. With Café Salma closing whilst I was in Foreign Parts, the Punjabi Charing Cross (157-159 North Street, Glasgow, G3 7DA) must deserve the #1 Spot.

Ram greeted us on entry and showed us to what has become our Stammtisch. Four other Chaps sat opposite keenly awaiting their order. The Complementary Poppadoms and Onion Chutney were brought in a flash, Marg ordered the Drinks. After two week s in Tunisia, she has become a fan of Sparkling Water.

Do you have a Large Bottle we can share?

Ram brought a 1.5l Bottle and placed it in an Ice Bucket – Superb! Respect for the Sparkling Water.

Hector declined the Menu, Marg looked for something new. Lamb Chilli Ginger was her choice.

Ram came up to take the order. Marg delivered hers, Hector asked for his usual – Lamb Gurmeet.

There was a moments hesitation.

Chef Gurmeet is not on duty is he?

Ram asked how I could tell. It was the hesitation that gave it away. By now the Kitchen must know this Dish, I am not the only person who orders it.

Two Chapattis to accompany and a Keema Padora to Start.

During the wait I noticed that the Specials Board has now changed. The Mussels have gone and Sea Bass and Deep Fried Mars Bar have been written. Dr. Stan and Hector have had the Sea Bass. The Mars Bar might appeal to Ricky next time he is up from Bradford.

The Keema Padora had more Mince than I believe has been served in previous encounters. Marg took one Quarter, Hector scooped the rest. The Sheer Hit from the Methi was right on the button, this is a flavour I did not get in any of my European Curry Venues. It was good to be home.

The Dryness of the Mince coupled with the Methi has made this Starter irresistible. It is also Filling hence the cutback to One Substantial Chapatti (75p) each.

Marg’s Chilli Ginger had an acceptable quantity of Masala, the Punjabi does not serve Soup. The Lamb had the look of Well-Cooked. Marg immediately commented on ow Tender it was. She described the Masala as – Rich and Fruity with a good level of Spice. Too Spicy and Marg struggles, this appeared to be spot-on. I the end she had to admit defeat and a Doggy-Bag was requested. There may be an update on this to come.

The Lamb Gurmeet was served on-the-bone. I hadn’t specified, happy to take what came my way. The Methi was again to the fore. The Masala was very thick, the Herb content adding to this. The Perfect balance between No Masala and Hunting the Lamb. In the last few days I have eaten outstanding Curry in Deutschland and Österreich. The different Interpretations of whatever Curry is means that I have no hesitation in contemplating Curry Every Day. Ram had asked where my travels had taken me. My preference for eating Curry every day is something he admits even he might struggle with.

People say – Hector don’t you think you’re living here in paradise? This was another Classic Curry Moment. The sheer joy of being back in one of my Favourite Venues eating what they do best – Lamb Gurmeet!

The Bill

£28.60. Still great value considering the Keema Padora is a meal in itself, almost.

The Aftermath

There was a brief stop at KRK in Woodlands Road. Yvonne has advised Hector that Frozen Methi is available in the South-Side Grocers. Alas they had none. However, Mustard Oil was purchased for the first time. Now who inspired this?

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Lunchtime at The Himalaya, Ulm – Baden-Württemberg

Posted on August 1, 2013 by Hector

Ulm, the last day of this Deutches-Tour, Hector has resolved to finally have a cooked German dinner. This has been avoided throughout, the thought of blaahhhnndddd…..

So, there has to be Curry-Heute for Lunch.

Himalaya (Marktplatz 5, 89073, Ulm, Baden-Württemberg) was not Hector’s first choice of Restaurant. Anondo just behind the Ibis was a classic back-street Curry House of the genre preferred by the Curry Hound. Alas, they are having their summer vacation. Holidays? People have far too many Holidays!

Marktplatz is right in the Centrum behind the Münster, easy to find, adjacent to the Rathaus even. A Lunchtime Buffet was advertised, not for Hector. A Chap who could have been Mein Host pointed to a small table right behind the Buffet. He insisted I have the English Menu even though I assured him all the Curry names are the same on a German one. That was the last I saw of him.

I was dealt with by a rather sullen chap for the duration. The Menu was not extensive, Bakra Bhuna (€12.90) looked the best option. Beef and Duck were available as well as Lamb. I asked for it to be served with Minimal Masala. The Chap remained motionless and expressionless, and wrote next to nothing down. Oh, well then.

A 0.4l Glass of Sparkling Water would set me back €2.30. I am not in Bayern, glasses are smaller.

About ten people were having the Buffet, one chap remarked to the waiter that the Curry, the Lamb Vindaloo I discovered later, was Zehr Scharf. Perhaps it was.

The Restaurant had seating out the back in a small square, we were all inside, seated on the same raised area. That’s how they must like it.

In no time at all, the waiter brought a massive plate of Boiled Rice and a decent sized portion of Curry. Half the Rice would have been sufficient.

Bakra Bhuuna

The Lamb was plentiful and Tender. The Masala was a Classic Curry Masala, Onion-based, not the Thickest but looked the part.

It looked like Curry, smelled like Curry, it was Curry! Not the Spiciest by any means, there was an OK Kick, just. The Seasoning was exactly right, the pleasures of eating Curry revealed themselves. The occasional Ginger matchstick gave a Blast, the included Vegetables were Fresh Tomatoes, Onion and Green Capsicum. The latter was not on the list of ingredients in the Menu. I made a small Pile on the Serving Dish, eight pieces in all, why?

Fortunately the quantity of Lamb was such that this was never an issue. The taste of the Lamb itself was most evident.

This Lamb Curry was as good as anything served in the UK in a Curry Buffet and as good as some of the Curry Cafés I have frequented. I would have to give Himalaya the Thumbs-Up. If there’s a next time I would ask for the Curry to be Spicier.

The Bill

€15.20. Par for the course,rReasonable.

The Aftermath

I withheld the Calling Card until the cash transaction was completed. Same waiter, I was expecting little. Instead he livened up. This may have been the most interesting moment of his shift.

These are all Indian Restaurants? You have been to all of these?

He was almost animated.

Später

Wiener Schnitzel, back to basics, about the only German Dish I can work up some enthusiasm for these days.

Marg is taking Hector for a Charing Cross Curry tomorrow, One venue less to choose from. Cafe Salma was open when I left, alas no more.

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Restaurant Sangam Wok & Curry, Feldkirch, Österreich – First Austrian Curry

Posted on July 31, 2013 by Hector

Liechtenstein was today’s Primary Objective, they had built it, I hadn’t been. En route to Liechtenstein from the Bodensee, one has to cross the Eastern Periphery of Österreich. Hector had done his research, not very much has been written about Restaurant Sangam Wok & Curry (Reichstrasse 171, 6800, Feldkirch, Österreich), but the little that had was enough of a magnet. I was nearly on my way here yesterday but fortunately spotted that – Dienstag ist Ruhetag.

Easily found, on the main road outside the Bahnhof, Sangam had been opened at Lunchtime. I was tempted then but did the Liechtenstein Ritual instead. I found myself back in Feldkirch waiting for opening time. Yes, Liechtenstein was riveting, not.

Research had revealed that this operation was run by Calcuttan-born Chinese. The Menu on offer therefore covered both Camps.

I was admitted bang on the 17.30 opening time, the Research was accurate, so far. I announced from the start – I have come from Scotland especially to eat in this Restaurant. This was true.

Scotland is a long way to come. – was the reply.

Mein Host and I discussed, in English, the Curry Requirements of Hector. That their Menu described the Karahi as a Stir-Fry put me off a bit. Maybe it does come down to that in the final stages, but there is much to be done to the Meat before that can be considered. I suggested the Lamm Rogan Josh, however, I was told this would have a lot of Masala. Why? Tandoori was suggested. Obviously Dry, but without some Masala it is not Curry in Hector’s Book. We agreed upon Lamm Karahi. I as ever asked for it to be served without the listed Paprika. No Capsicum. Not for the first time I suggested an Alternative Vegetable could be added. In places where I am not known I usually end up with masses of largec cut Onions. Potatoes, I offered as a throwaway. In all my years of ordering Curry in a new venue, nobody has ever taken this on board.

The Soda Water was reasonable value at €2.70 per half litre compared to the price of Mineral Water.

I had time to take in the surroundings. Whilst there was the usual attempt to recreate what people think a Curry House should look like, there was a bright, summery feel to the décor. I sat to the left of the door, an area which could have sat twenty plus. The other side replicated this, not a small venue.

The Lamm Karahi was brought on a Candle-lit Stand along with the European huge quantity of Boiled Rice. Did I see Cumin Seeds added to the Rice?

The Curry was Dry, Seriously Dry. Some Ghee had collected at the base of the karahi. The Lamb was cut in a standard size and the quantity was Substantial. A Green Herb was mixed in, Fresh Coriander one hoped. The anticipated Large Onion Chunks were visible, but – What’s this – Potatoes! A First!

One can start a Curry with so many positive waves and then be disappointed. This Curry did not disappoint.

Presumably the Tender Lamb had been pre-cooked and indeed had now been Stir-Fried with the other Bits. The Seasoning was very much at the Upper End of The Scale. Shades of Erlangen. There was no way this Curry could now be Bland.

The Spice content was not high, I hadn’t asked for Spicy. Black Pepper may have been the root of the Kick that was. The Herby Flavours emerged slowly, both Black and Green Cardamoms were present, Aromatic too. The Minimal Ghee was intriguing, a couple of Spoonfuls was scooped over the Lamb, oh yes. The Earthy Taste I crave was there. The Potatoes stood out, they were Stir-Fried – Bratkartoffellen – by any other name – Superb, and another First!

The Lady who had put this Dish together appeared halfway. I verified my enjoyment, she was of course happy to hear this. I felt this was a good time to mention Curry-Heute, a good move as it turned out. I established at this time that the people serving me were Brother and Sister.

The Bill

€20.60. This has to be considered above the average price one would expect to pay in the UK.   Switzerland and Liechtenstein are only a few kilometres away, prices there are high, here too.

The Aftermath

My strategy of approaching the Counter paid off. The Calling Card was presented. Why – Curry-Heute? In another German Speaking Country this definitely pays off.

I was told about the Calcutta Connection and how quite a number of Chinese had migrated to North East India. I asked who the Chef was – My Husband. Another Chinese-Calcuttan. I was challenged as to my Scottish accent.  Did I have one? The Daughter is at St Andrews University. There are Scots there?

These were Lovely People selling Impressive Bespoke Curry. I wish them well and recommend that anyone travelling in this Border Territory drops in.

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Ganesha Bistro, Konstanz – Baden-Württemberg

Posted on July 30, 2013 by Hector

When Hector identified a Cluster of at least Seven Curry Houses concentrated in the area that I now know is the Konstanz Altstadt, the conclusion was that there is a demand for Curry. That Hector has sailed across the Bodensee (254m deep at one point) to investigate, is what Curry-Heute is all about. The proximity to the Swiss Border was also intriguing, do they come over for a cheap meal, or is this area so close they can charge more?

Having read the revues in the Usual Places I decided, as ever, to make up my own mind.

Alighting from the Katamaran I did the usual Tourist Wanderabout to take in the Konstanz Atmosphere. On the main shopping street I felt I could have been in Köln. The occasional Statue – Graaf Zeppelin – for one and the odd Historic Tower created a Charm, Konstanz is a far more interesting place than Friedrichshafen.

The Ganesha Bistro (Kreuzlinger Str, 16, 78462, Konstanz, Baden-Württemberg) was not my first discovered Curry House. The Imperial Indien Palace had shaded seating outside where the Menus were piled up. A quick glance, a choice of two Lamb Dishes. Goodbye.  I was also now only a few metres from the Swiss Border, not that I would have spotted anything.

Around the corner lay the Ganesha Bistro. About a dozen people were sitting outside, only two in. I entered the Cafe-Style Venue and again studied the Menu before committing to a seat. The Counter displayed some of the Curry on offer. A Container of Seriously Dry looking Lamb sat alone. Clearly this had been cooked in advance waiting to be transformed into whatever. A definite variation on the Two Curry Pot Venue.

Mein Host approached. I spoke in English deliberately, most folk selling Curry speak our Tongue. The names of the Dishes are all the same anyway.

A Lamm Karahi please. The Menu listed the Ingredients. No Paprika please, and can you make it as Dry and Thick as possible?

The Rice for once was not Inclusive and so I took the Opperchancity to try an Alu Prantha. I love these Spellings. Do they pronounce them differently too?

A much needed 0.4l of Sparkling Water was poured from a large plastic bottle. At €2.20 a pop, just about agreeable. A second was planned.  The Temperature is rising again.

The Lady behind the Counter performed her Magic. A Generous Plate of Lamb was served, this looked Worthy. A more than Substantial Aloo Paratha came straight afterwards along with some Chutneys.

The Karahi was a Decent Brown, I had heard Mein Host instruct The Lady – No Paprika – and the Instruction had been followed. The Masala may have been Onion -based but I kept spotting small Hemispheres of what could have been Split Peas or more likely Daal. Yoghurt had certainly been used to create the Masala. Lamb on a Daal-based Masala? Certainly Different. The Quantity of Meat was Impressive. Eight was the quick count but most of these would be halved, more than enough to Feed a Hector.

There was a Fresh Green Herb mixed in to the Masala but as there was no Coriander or Methi Blast I remain in the dark. I found some pieces of Interesting Vegetable too, Cauliflower. The Flavours began to emerge. Creamy from the Start, Dry, Earthy and then the Cumin kicked in. There was not much of a Kick but I had made no request for a Particularly Spicy Curry. The Plentiful Lamb was Tender but due to the Quantity I was aware of how much I was Chewing. For the second time in twenty four hours, I was encountering a new Taste on the Palate. I had to be impressed.

The Paratha had – Defeat – written all over it. Maybe half was the Target. It was Wet and Shiny and looked like a Big Tattie Scone. But then, what else is an Aloo Paratha?

Mein Host asked – Is it OK?

Very Good.

Now let us not compare this to a Glasgow/Bradford Curry. Curry in Europe is a different Kettle of Fish, but this was Distinctive enough to command praise. .

The order of the second Sparkling Water was also a strategy to engage Mein Host.

Your Masala is different, is it Daal-based?

Not Daal, Jeera. – he replied.

Ah, Cumin!

Yes, Cumin.

So what were the little Roundish Lumps?  I didn’t ask, I may never find out.

The Bill

€16.20. Exactly what I expect to pay for a Curry.

The Aftermath

The Calling Card was presented and I am always happy when People’s Eyesight is sufficient to be able to read – Curry-Heute – on the Trusty Samsung.

Mein Host has seen where I have been, Konstanz is now added to The List.

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Friedrichshafen – Tandoori Palace

Posted on July 29, 2013 by Hector

Thanks to the rescheduling of a flight, Hector takes the Opperchancity to visit Friedrichshafen in the extreme South West of Deutschland from where three separate Nations loom across the Bodensee. Regular Readers will know what is to come.  And no, it will not be a flight in a Zeppelin.

The choice of Curry House in Friedrichshafen is simple it is either Tandoori Palace (Schanzstrasse 15, 88045, Friedrichshafen, Baden-Württemberg) or nothing.

Having spent half of the day travelling from Bamberg, Lunch was late, so Dinner was even later, 21.30 or so. The venue was checked out earlier to confirm it was open. Tandoori Palace operates Lunchtime Specials until 16.00 which rotate daily. That could have been interesting, but not to be realised.

There would be five fellow diners which was not a bad situation. The afternoon rains had closed everything down, people had retreated to wherever they go to write up Curry Blogs or whatever. Tandoori Palace is a substantial venue, somebody has invested a considerable sum in the décor. The sort of venue Marg enjoys being taken to, a far cry from Hector’s preferred Curry-Cafés.

Fish was almost the choice, Duck could also have featured but Hector ate Ente for Lunch. So Lamm it was. I noted Karahi at the end of the Menu for pre-ordered Group Eating. Bhindi Gosht was almost the choice but then I spotted Tinda Gosht, that’s a new one (Turnip).  In addition to the expected list of ingredients was Kürbisgemüse. As a fan of Pumpkin Soup this could provide a new experience, but how to avoid being presented with just that? The waitress did not understand my request for – Not Soup.

Small Sauce – was the compromise. Inclusive Boiled Rice was confirmed. This is very much the European way and makes the price of the Main more acceptable.

In the meantime I was presented with a European Poppadom complete with Cumin Seeds. Three Dips were provided, I was warned about The Green One – Home-made and very Spicy. It was.

*

*

The Curry looked very Mushy. What was initially taken as Capsicum turned out to be the Pumpkin Variant. Khadu is something I have been cooking with for years and I chop it into cubes. This looked like the exterior of something I knew not. The presence of pips was something I had to cope with.

The Seasoning was notable, this Curry had a serious Salt content. Given yesterday’s visit to Erlangen, this is quite an observation. There was a hint of Bitterness from the Pumpkin and a Subtle Sweetness coming from somewhere, possibly the Masala or even the slightly aromatic Boiled Rice. Bitter, Sweet and Salt, a combination which gave a brand new Overall Flavour, Interesting.

Where was the Lamb?

Compared to the Lamm Karahi served in Erlangen yesterday, one had to go on Safari around the dish to capture the Meat. The Lamb content was pitiful. What was provided was fine, reasonably Tender.  I was given four or fives times as much Duck at Lunchtime in one of those Other Eateries for appreciably less Dosh.

Again, in what is typical of European Curry Houses, the quantity of Boiled Rice was sufficient to feed two, always a waste.

The Bill

€18.40. €4.90 of this was for the 0.75l of Sparkling Water. Had I been in the mood for a Chapatti these were noted at €2.40.

The Aftermath

The Calling Card was received politely.

The ten minute walk back to the accommodation revealed that Friedrichshafen is not a wild place at night.

Tomorrow it may not rain, much. Hector has something planned.

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Erlangen – The Curry House – Visit #3

Posted on July 28, 2013 by Hector

What would any sane person do before heading to a Bier Festival? Have a Curry!

Steve was amenable to a Curry-Heute Experience in Erlangen before partly retracing our steps back to Forchheim for the penultimate day of Annafest 2013. I won’t even mention the possibility of re-visiting the Bamberg Swarg. Why somebody has not opened a rival to this very poor venue one does not know. Perhaps the good People of Bamberg have been put off Curry by what is served up.

Curry House (Helmstrasse 11, 91054, Erlangen, Bayern) opens daily at 11.00. It is located little more than one hundred metres from the Bahnhof, one cannot miss it. On A Sunday lunchtime one would expect the place to be quiet, it was, though two fellow Currynaughts did have their Spice Fix.

In a decidedly Cafe-Style, one approaches the counter to make one’s selection. Hector spotted two dark and Meaty Dishes. Mein Host was keen to explain one was Lamm Curry, the other Karahi. The Lamm Karahi was Spicy!  The Lamb slots gave way to the Vegetable options and so I spotted Daal Makhani on the right of the display. A small portion of Daal Makhani please, in addition to the Lamm Karahi. The Meals are served with Boiled Rice and a token piece of Poppadom.

The Bill

€15.60. This was paid individually and in advance. The Sparkling Water was included in this price. Hector was not tempted to have a bottle of Gutmann Weizen. How many Curry Houses on the planet can boast that they sell this wonderful Bier?

I decided to play The Calling Card early. On my first visit it was stuck on the wall at the till. Last year who knows if it saw the light of day again? Mein Host today was most keen having taken us through his Dishes and Steve ordering the same as Hector. Two Chaps who know their Curry?

We chose a seat far away from the portable air conditioning unit, why? It would only be 34ºC today, much less than yesterday’s 35ºC. Loading up the Trusty Samsung I sat down beside Mein Host who was in front of this mechanical wonder. He dismissed the Bamberg Outlet, had not heard of München’s Indian Mango, but was impressed by the array of places visited.

We were called back to the counter to collect our Meals. The chaps behind the counter in open kitchen had been busy.

The Daal Makhani was thankfully served in a separate small platter. The bit of Poppadom was used to scoop this up. This was as good as any Daal Makhani as I have tasted, Earthy and Creamy. As regular readers know, this Side Dish was first experienced last year in this very Country.

Now for The Karahi

Extra fresh Tomatoes, Onion and three colours of Capsicum had been added to what we had chosen. Despite the fact that the Curry was on the same plate as the Rice, one could immediately see that this was a very large portion. The Lamb was in huge chunks but was thoroughly Tender. Having seen it earlier there is no way this Lamb had just met the Masala, this must make a serious difference to any Curry. The Masala was on the Thin side and had a dominant Flavour which took Hector back in time. Very 1960’s – 1970’s with one suspects Curry Powder to the fore. Not Curry Powder?

The fresh Tomatoes stood out as a positive addition. Steve and Hector both piled the Capsicum on the side. The Rice was used to soak up the Masala, no way could it ever be finished, on a Sunday at 13.15? I had warned Steve about the Salt content, it has been on the limits of the tolerable on my two previous visits. Today Salt was not an issue, the Curry had been well seasoned as one always hopes for.

Steve was not taken with the Daal, his first encounter. He remarked on the size of the Lamb Chunks positively but found there to be too many added Vegetables, especially the Peppers. Overall a Reasonable Curry.

Mein host was leaving, before doing so he checked up on us.

Not too Spicy?

Impossible – was the reply. I must stop this, one day…

He promised to study the Curry-Heute website further.

One is not claiming that what is served at the Erlangen Curry House is in any way outstanding. It is good, honest Curry cooked in the Traditional way.  In Deutschland one cannot always assume that this will be the case.

More photos were taken of the surroundings. The assistant Chef was keen to tell me that his elder was the Main Chef, cue another photo.

Hopefully I shall return in October.

Posted in Curry House | 1 Comment

Indian Mango, München #2

Posted on July 25, 2013 by Hector

Hector and Steve had been to three Kellers by the time it agreed that the second Curry-Heute was due. We had paced ourselves well, the Healthy Lunch had helped too. The S Bahn took us the few stops from the stowed Augustiner Keller to Isartor and the Indian Mango (Zweibrückenstrasse 15, 80331, München). The Restaurant was much quieter than at Lunchtime. Arriving forty five minutes before closing time we were given the warmest of Welcomes. The Waitress, Anzina, now knew us, and we her. Mr Kunjappu chatted away whilst Steve studied the Menu. He took advice from the Maestro himself as to what would be a complement to the Chettinad. Bindi Gosht it was then. Glasgow and Bradford came up in the conversation.

It’s Mick Jagger’s Birthday today, said Jolly. Is he not from Bradford?

I thought he was from London.

A newspaper was brought over, – Ah Dartford. Steve, a not untalented Musician himself was keen to ask Jolly about his Music. I played on It’s only Rock’n’Roll, but… He spoke about Keith Richards in the highest of terms. Unfortunately Jolly had to leave us in the middle of our Culinary Extravaganza, his Wife had arrived to take him home. So it goes.

Oh, You’re Scottish!

An Austrian Couple were saying their Goodbyes, the last diners apart from ourselves. Suddenly they were over talking to us, well the Mature Lady was in particular.

My Daughter studied in England but went to Scotland and found everyone so friendly, and she could understand them.

So where is she now? I asked.

The Punchline to this story cannot be printed – on application only.

Anzina, the Waitress first met this afternoon, brought the Curry, she was beaming. Respect for two Curry Enthusiasts returning as promised? By now we had made a new friend. She is not The Daughter but a Languages Student from Mauritius. This Lady will go far.

So when will Miss Kunjappu contact Hector?

The Lamm Chettinad was markedly different from the Fish. Steve and I agreed on the simple fact that Fish adds Flavour to a Dish, Lamb takes the Flavour from the Masala. The Lamb was suitably Tender and again in sufficient quantity.

 The Onions were Caramelised giving a much Sweeter overall Flavour to the Dish. Once again The Kick was appreciable and the Gritty Texture to the fore. The same, but different. The Fish has the edge over the Lamb, IMHO.

Steve’s Bindi Gosht had significantly more Masala than the Chettinad but was in no way Soupy. I can’t even describe this. Was Steve’s opening remark. The Okra, the Vegetables, the Taste, Delicious, Spicy – as he ate heartily. That was just Perfect, Fine, a Fair Old Kick.

Another impressive Indian Mango Curry.

The Bill

€26.90. This is less than at Lunchtime, The Drinks were On the House.

The Aftermath

Anzina cleared the table apart from the remaining Sparkling Water and the Helles. Chef Batra came and sat with us. Anzina brought the Schnapps. We settled down to discuss my favourite topic – Curry. We discussed the Ingredients that go to make a Curry Special. Tamarind, Methi and of course Karela. I described how I first encountered Karela at the New Karahi Palace and assumed it was a spelling variation, not then knowing about The Bitter Vegetable.

Batra was keen to point out his contribution in what makes the Chettinad Dishes stand out. Proud of his creations, he brought out the photos of his previous places of employment. I never did establish what brought him to Deutschland. He was also keen to mention his Brother who has cooked for Tony Blair. Hopefully Batra will stay at Mango for the foreseeable. Anzina has promised to be still working at Indian Mango when I return in October. We shall see.

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Indian Mango, München #1 – The Couples Trip

Posted on July 25, 2013 by Hector

One used to come to München for the Bier, Since Steve discovered the Indian Mango some five years ago it is very much Curry and Bier. Steve and Hector arrived late last evening, Two of Eight in The Couples’ Trip. Somehow there was no time to eat, so regular readers will know what is coming.

There was a Swift Half at the Hofbräukeller located across the Isar and then back towards Isartor and the Indian Mango (Zweibrückenstrasse 15, 80331, München). It is the Indian Mango that partly inspired Hector to have a German word in the Blog name. Finally, there was Wonderful Curry to be found in Deutschland.

Germany is having a summer this year, last year they missed out. The windows had been pushed back to permit people to sit in or out. We chose in, the healthy option. The Young Waiter recognised Hector as he entered, not bad given that the last visit was in November. Chef Batra was on duty behind the Counter in the Open Kitchen, he was busy, engrossed. The Lunchtime Menu was dismissed though the majority of the customers had taken the offer. One can tell, the Curry arrives on the plate, Half Curry, Half Rice. The Lesser Curry was also Swimming in Masala. Business was booming. Fisch Chettinad is not on the Main Menu, it was first experienced from the Specials Board which was not visible today. I asked – No Problem. Steve went for the Lamm Chettinad which is on the Menu, and a Nan. Boiled Rice is inclusive.

Half of the Sparkling Water had gone by the time the aroma of Fish filled the Restaurant. We sat right beside the Cooking Area, Hot Work for the Chef. One of us had ordered Bier. It was possibly now warmer inside than out. Mr. Jolly Kunjappu, owner of the Indian Mango, and Famous Percussionist, Philosopher, and Lecturer for Price Waterhouse Cooper, was on the premises. He drifted in and out, no recognition, yet.

When did Steve last look at Curry-Heute?

The Plates were presented which intrigued Steve. He was used to his Curry being brought on the Plate. When did they introduce this? Steve decided to consult a well-known Curry-Website to establish when the more traditional style of bringing Curry and Rice began.

Two Bowls of Boiled Rice accompanied two Bowls of the Driest Curry Hector has seen in months. Both looked Stunning, the Quantity Daunting, even for a Hungry Hector. The Aroma from the Fisch Chettinad was Powerful. The presence of Fish was most apparent. The Dark Red Chillies that Hector associates with South Indian Curry gave off a Smoky Flavour. The Gritty Texture that is the Signature of this Dish came from the Herbs, possibly Coriander Stalks and Chopped Green Chillis. The Masala, what there was of it was packed with Flavour. Even the Fresh Tomatoes had been given a New Dimension.

The Fish itself was Delightful, cooked to perfection. Rick Stein has never been here, I bet. The Kick was immense, the Seasoning bang on. The Complexity of the Flavours truly Magnificent. The Top Palate and the Lips were in Full Pleasure Mode. It was a Hot Day, one can imagine the Side Effects, a Dab of the Forehead.

Eating this Curry is an Absolute Joy, one of the Best Curry Experiences there is.

Meanwhile across the table, Steve was making many positive noises. His Lamb equivalent was also very Dry and Dark. He described his Curry as – Intense. Steve was trying to work out if he had ever eaten better here, in the end he declared that –  this Lamm Chettinad was the best I have ever eaten at (Indian) Mango. By this time Hector knew what his Second Curry of the day would be. There was always going to be a Second Curry-Heute.

Chef Batra came out to ask if the Chettinad were up to standard. He had spotted me after-all. Congratulations were offered, he knows how good this Dish is.

Our Waiter had disappeared momentarily so I asked the New Waitress for The Bill.

The Bill

€36.15. The Chettinad Dishes are the most expensive on the Menu. For once, the Fish was slightly cheaper.  Still the Prices are within Acceptable Parameters.

The Aftermath

I gave the Waitress the Calling Card and asked her to give it to The Boss. Curry-Heute – she said. Herr Kunjappu was by now seated at the rear of the Restaurant engrossed in conversation. He came across immediately. My Daughter reads your Website and tells me everything. Was the Waitress his Daughter, possibly, but we didn’t interrupt the flow of conversation. I introduced Steve and related how he had spent a Month in München and ended up eating here every day. The Fisch Chettinad was discussed – Nearly my Mother’s Recipe – was his new admission. Jolly is well aware of just how good his Curry is compared to the other Indian Restaurants in München, for the record I have tried four others. With time in München always limited, there is no point messing about, simply head here. (Except over the New Year period)

We are coming back tonight, I need to have the Lamm Chettinad.

I shall be here, we shall drink Schnapps.

End of Part 1

 

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Cafe Salma, The Last Supper – Farewell to Hassan

Posted on July 22, 2013 by Hector

So Long, and Thanks for The Machi

John emailed late last week to inform me he had heard that Hassan was moving back to Morocco. Angus emailed last evening to give the definitive report that Café Salma (523 Sauchiehall St, G3 7PQ) would cease operation on Thursday, this very week. Lunchtime today is the only time I could fit in a Final Curry at Café Salma.

Marg and Hector had their first Café Salma Experience on April 8, 2010. This would become the very first Curry-Heute Blog entry for Glasgow. The welcome was Warm, the Food Excellent, today would mark the 36th Curry-Heute at Café Salma.

It was more in hope than expectation that I found Hassan and his Dear Lady on duty this lunchtime.

I approached the Counter where Hassan was standing.

How are You? asked Hassan. I raised a Handkerchief to my right eye and made an Exaggerated Dab. – Is it true?

A Couple sitting in the window seat called across – We are here for the same reason.

Describing my schedule for the rest of the week, I explained that this visit was the only time I could make The Last.

The Last Supper – exclaimed Hassan as he took the order.

I have been trying to visit Café Salma and  have the wonderful Ravi Machi for weeks, sadly it was not to be.

The Fish comes in a Box, I wasn’t ordering a new Box for the Last Days – said Hassan. And so the Signature Dish it was The Lamb Lahori Karahi, Medium, with a Kick. The Excellent Vegetable Rice would accompany.

Marg has had the Kofta Bhuna here before and so this, and a Chapatti, was her order.

We munched on the Complementary Poppadoms, Spiced Onion and Dips whilst we waited.

And so Hassan brought the Curry for the Last Time.

Today there will be no Review of the Food. We were here to say – Au Revoir.

As we finished Hassan asked if we wished Dessert. He then described to a Chap waiting at the Counter how over the last few years Dr. Stan and I have ordered a Kofta Palak (to share) as a Dessert. If one has room for Dessert, then have more Curry! has been Hector’s Philosophy for long enough.

Hassan is moving back to Casablanca, his plan is to open a Guest House and Restaurant in Marrakesh. He will strip the building of many of its Fittings and take the better machines to Morocco. He explained that he had found No Buyer. You are the Business – has been the attitude of the Prospective Buyer. If you go, The Business Goes.                  True.

Hassan and his Excellent range of Curry Dishes will be greatly missed.

Maybe, one day in Marrakesh.

So long, and thanks for The Machi.

The Bill

£25.00. Good value to the very end.

The Aftermath

A Future King was born on this very day.

Meanwhile, Katie was labouring late afternoon at The Staggs (Musselburgh) pouring Green Devil for Robin and Hector.

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The Bradford Curry Blogger joins Hector (Curry-Heute) at The Village, Glasgow

Posted on July 21, 2013 by Hector

John, The Bradford Curry Blogger and his Family have been up in Glasgow this week. John and Hector have dined three times in Bradford with Curry enjoyed at the Sheesh Mahal (twice) and The International. Today was our first outing in Hector’s Domain. It was John who suggested The Village ‘Curry House’ (129 Nelson Street, Tradeston, Glasgow G5 8BA) my second visit in five days. Just like The Old Days…

The Rendezvous was at 13.00. John, Lynda, Izzy, Ben and Juanita were already seated as Hector walked in as punctually as ever. The Bradford Crowd had been perusing the Lunchtime Menu, this was not for John or Hector. The Main Menu was requested, no problem. No we have choice.

Ben and Juanita, although now resident in Glasgow, had not been the recently refurbished Village. They could not fail to be impressed. It may have taken two years to construct, however The Village must be Glasgow’s Premier Curry House for Ambience. Two other tables were already occupied, a few more groups would soon arrive for Sunday Lunch. The Food ain’t too shabby either.

It was Ben who asked about The Buffet. He had spotted the serving dishes on display along the counter. I explained it was for the period of Ramadan (now) only. I also related that I was told they rotated the main dishes. Glancing behind I noticed the three Main Dishes that impressed me on Wednesday had been replaced by more interesting and contemporary dishes – Aloo Keema Mutter, Daal Mash and Bindhi Piyaz. One suspects the Buffet Fee would be worth it alone for The Village Potato, Mince and Peas Curry – as much as you can eat.

A Waiter I had never met before looked after us well. Sunday Lunch is not my usual time to eat in Glasgow. A Mixed Pakora and a Vegetable Pakora were ordered as Starters. Something with Chicken was ordered for Izzy too. She has yet to find Spice to be an acceptable sensation on her young palate. Hector kept his Appetite intact. Those who ate The Starers appreciated them. The Vegetable Pakora was three large pieces. I am to sure if this was due to Juanita and/or Ben choosing from the Lunchtime Menu.

Mr. Baig was passing the table and so I introduced him to my Bradford Counterpart. He was quite amused that we should be dining together. He should be appreciate that The Village was selected as our first joint Glasgow Venue.

The Mains

Ben ordered a Lamb Curry with Roti and Juanita the Vegetable Curry with Rice. At least one of these dishes was from the Lunch Menu. More Kiddies Food was ordered for Izzy. I had suggested that somebody should try The Village Desi Korma, the Dish that held Hector in raptures for years. Lynda was up for this, with Chapattis (95p) to accompany. There was no remark about having to pay for Chapattis. (Not The Bradford Way) John had studied The Menu before his arrival and was intent on having the Peshwari Lamb Chops with a Garlic Nan to accompany. I was almost tempted myself to join him but went Mid-Menu and found the Achari Gosht with an Aloo Paratha. Happy Memories of Tunisia and the Calcutta Restaurant Indien at Carthage must have been in the subconscious. I made a point of asking for it to be served Desi-style as I have been instructed to do for any dish I order at The Village. I was then offered Lamb on-the-bone, even better. An Efficient Waiter, in tune with his customers.

It was an honour that Mr. Baig joined our Waiter in bringing out the Main Courses and Breads. He returned mid-way through our meal to make the customary enquiry.

So, Hector, how is the food?

He assured us that they do their best. Hector is well aware of just how good their best can be.

The Achari Gosht was Stunning. It is quite some time since I have ordered this Dish at The Village, I could trawl back to see if I ever have. The Lamb was incredibly Tender and fell of the Bone. The Masala was in the Classic Village Style, a Viscous Texture with a decent Kick. Every so often I encountered some Lime Pickle, the Tangy Blast was extraordinary. I can count on one hand the number of times I have finished a Village Aloo Paratha, today was one such day. The size was substantial, I had the appetite just right, nothing to excess, eat all that is set before me, honourable. Later I the day I could contemplate a Half-Kilo if this. I must recommend this Dish, a New Classic Village Curry?

At the far end of the table Ben and Juanita were enjoying what hey ordered. Ben first commented on the quality of his Roti. I hadn’t even seen it. The Tenderness of the Lamb impressed. Juanita remarked on the Chunkiness of the Vegetables – Very Spicy.

Lynda was glad to have taken the given advice. Her Korma was noting like a Korma served anywhere else. Excellent, good for a change. She enjoyed the Tangy, Soft Lamb and would definitely have this dish again.

Today The Village Desi Korma was served in its Darker Form.  This Dish does vary from Chef to Chef.  When on form it is outstanding.  Hector was showing restraint and cannot comment on the overall flavour but the mention of Tangy suggests the usual Citrus was there.

The Bradford Maestro

John thoroughly enjoyed his Peshwari Chops. I had asked how many constituted A Portion. Four it appears. Now we both know that this is far short of what one receives at The International in his home town. It was also the most expensive dish from the standard portions. John stated that – it was good to have something different… Zingy and Fiery, Chunky Chops. The quality of the Meat was appreciated, its freshness and the cooking – Soft, with Crispy Edges.

This has the makings of another New Classic Village Dish, ordered by the Half-Kilo.

The Bill

£62.60. Five adults had eaten Main Courses, Starters were part of the order, not excessive.

The Aftermath

Ben, resident in Glasgow for some thirteen years, and Hector discussed the poverty of Outstanding Curry Houses in Glasgow until the dawn of Mother India. It is a pity that he is reluctant to travel too far across the River Clyde. Maybe he is not into Curry as much as his Brother.

John and Hector will hopefully dine together again in Bradford at the end of September.

 

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