Glasgow – Indian Cottage – Rasoi no more…

Posted on June 7, 2013 by Hector

Dr. Rick had secured a place in the Curry-Heute Diary, tonight was Curry Night. The Plan was to rendezvous at Bier O’clock in The 3 Judges then move on to The Village. By the time Dr. Stan and Steve had joined us The Plan was evolving. There would be no Subway Ride, instead we crossed the road to a New Glasgow Curry House – Indian Cottage (120 Dumbarton Road, Glasgow, G11 6NY). Hector had spotted this venue in passing last Sunday. I thought this was in addition to the Rasoi Indian Kitchen, alas it turned out to be the same premises. Open a mere four weeks, the room has been given quite a makeover, very bright now and definitely No Tablecloths!

The Waiter was the same Chap who had served us last September in the previous incarnation. Poppadoms were brought along with Onion Chutney and a Dip. He suggested The Buffet, I insisted on The Menu. The Poppadoms would be inclusive – he stated. But aren’t they anyway? – I asked. Dr. Stan still considered The Buffet. In the end we had all found something to our liking and so were ready to order. The Methi Gosht would be Hector’s choice with Chapattis (£1.50). A Side of Mixed Indian Vegetable Curry.

The Delightful Doris now took charge and offered us The Buffet once more. She then recited all of the available Dishes. Most were Chicken and typical of a Buffet, what The Mainstream may accept, but not We The Chaps. It was then suggested we could order anything off The Menu and pay The Buffet price, now we’re talking. This is a policy I would like to see more readily on offer. There is a Physical Limit as to how much one can eat anyway, how many can eat a Starter and finish all of their Main with Accompaniments?

The Hector Choice was given. Dr. Rick and Steve both ordered Lamb Karahi, Dr. Stan had found Methi Keema. We would be brought Starters and what was not our Mains could be taken from The Buffet, an excellent compromise. We felt we were on to a good thing here. Doris returned a few moments later and asked – Is your Methi Gosht to be Lamb or Chicken? Does Gosht not mean Lamb? I responded. Hector was given a ribbing by his Fellow Diners, arrogant or what? This is not the first time I have been asked this question, the answer remains the same.

More Dips were brought, more Poppadoms offered but declined. Two Bowls of Garlic Mushroom were put out before the always impressive Sizzling Platters were set before us. We had a Feast, time to tuck in.

Two pieces per platter of Vegetable Pakora, Potato Fritter (Pakora), Chicken Tikka (well almost), and Chicken Chat made up each Platter. These were devoured, it appears we were hungry. Everything had been brought Fresh which is better than any Buffet. Whilst we all enjoyed what we consumed, nobody had found any distinctive Flavours worth remarking on. Maybe this is why we eat Curry?

More Starters were offered, but we know better than to overload on these. We were here for The Curry.

Dr. Stan’s Methi Keema appeared first. It looked Wonderful. With no Masala to speak of, this was the ultimate Dry Curry Experience. The Flecks of Methi were visible in the Light Coloured Lamb Mince. I was permitted a Sample. We both agreed it was Very Good but with even more Methi it would have been Stunning.

The two Karahi Dishes arrived next. Far too Soup-like for my liking. And full of the nasty Green Ballast that is too common. (I had asked for none in my Dish.) Both Dr. Rick and Steve found the Capsicum to be excessive, it’s the Meat we want, not the Filler. The Lamb was of the highest Quality, very Tender. Again the Curry was enjoyed, The Wow was not evident.

The Methi Gosht impressed on arrival. With a much Thicker Masala than the Karahi this was most appetising.

I had asked for extra Methi, perhaps this had thickened the Masala. At first I thought the Seasoning was Perfect but it appeared to vary as I ate. The Lamb was Superb, cooked to Perfection. Again this was a Very Good Curry, very enjoyable, but no Wow.

The Mixed Vegetable Curry provided the necessary distraction but had no real Flavour. The Vegetable Curry at Yadgar has set The Standard. To attain a place on Hector’s Recommend Curry Houses, The Wow Factor has to be achieved.

That everything was being photographed is always noticed when so few other Diners are present. I offered an explanation now or later. When Doris asked me directly if the photos were for me. I gave her The Calling Card and explained I had a Website. The Cat was out The Bag.

Pieces of Sliced Nan were in the Buffet Container, we had emptied this. More, Freshly Cooked Nan was brought. The Staff could have done no more to make our visit Special, but then they did.

We were invited to visit the Desserts. We declined. We eat Curry. In the end Dr. Rick went to investigate, he returned with Profiteroles. Doris then offered us a Drink, On The House. Steve and Hector took Brandy, Dr. Stan – Tea, and Dr. Rick – Coffee. Much appreciated.

The Bill

£51.85. We could have eaten more. The Bill would have been the same. This was excellent Value. With a Bar Bill of £12.00, how much was the Sparkling Water?

The Aftermath

We left feeling well-fed. Good Service, Good Food, I shall certainly return. The Methi Keema is worth further examination.

And so we descended into The Subway after all. The rest of The Chaps were at The Laurieston.

Update – August 2018

Indian Cottage has closed.  I know not if there is any connection with the Indian Cottage in the Merchant City.

Posted in [Indian Cottage] | 1 Comment

C-Day – Chops (Lamb Order) Karahi

Posted on June 6, 2013 by Hector

The Hector Curry intake in May reached Rock-Bottom. Today may may the eve of the weekend, more Curry-Heute Reports will make an appearance. This is now and 8 Lamb Chops were crying to be liberated from Sainsburys.

Hector does not possess a Tandoori Oven. If any are going spare please contact. The Chops were sealed in Oil and Gram Masala, meanwhile the Masala was cooked separately as has become the Hector way. Fresh Coriander and Dried Methi were added early. A Generous Dessert Spoon of Karela Pickle was the only variant. Last time I overdosed on this, hopefully this quantity will add rather than dominate. The Tin of Crushed Tomatoes was the only Liquid added. Minimal Red, minimal Liquid. Dry.

The two parts were joined and simmered for about half an hour. The Chops being quality Lamb did not require hours of cooking. The Par Boiled Potatoes and Fresh Mushrooms were the added Interesting Vegetables. I have always claimed to be able to make a Curry look like anything served Professionally. This looked the part, now to wait for Marg.

A small quantity of Boiled Rice would accompany, not ideal and so two Chapattis were prepared. The instructions were followed but they ended up too Crispy, Disaster for Scotland, sorry, that’s tomorrow night. .

Marg’s first reaction – The Methi!  She didn’t spot the Karela Pickle, I had this bang on. The Tang of the Pickle and the Bitterness of the Karela and Methi – Gosh!

Marg’s next comment was to claim the Dish was – Too Spicy? She did complement the Quality of the Lamb.

No way! This was surely well within acceptable parameters?

Another verdict is required. I know someone who may enjoy 2 of the 8 remaining Lamb Chops.

To be continued…

C-Day plus 1.

Posted in Hector's Cooking | Comments Off on C-Day – Chops (Lamb Order) Karahi

Glasgow – Punjabi Ibrox – Once Upon a Time there was The Modern Punjabi

Posted on June 2, 2013 by Hector

In The Shadow of a very famous Listed Building, lies a Modest Curry House….

Pinta’ Lager

It was one hour short of a week since my last Curry. After a four day trip to Yorkshire with absolutely no chance of a Bradford Curry, or any Curry for that matter, the situation had to be sorted. I phoned the Punjabi (560 Paisley Road West, Ibrox, Glasgow, G51 1RF) to ascertain their Sunday opening time. The number has been in my address book for years, the Modern Punjabi as was, has been frequented by Neil and Hector for over thirty years. It has always served Curry well above the Average. When Marg moved down from Aberdeen, the Modern Punjabi became her Local Curry house. I trust they also served good Pakora and Chicken Korma as Marg ate little else from the Menu in these early days. What changed? Pinta’ Lager.

This is the Parent Venue of the excellent Punjabi Charing Cross. Having been at the birth of the latter, Hari, Mein Host, has told me how he came to takeover the Modern Punjabi some seven years ago. The Modern was dropped, yet this is still how it is referred to in Hector Circles.

Pinta’ Lager

Hector had a Cunning Plan. Visit the Punjabi unannounced, take whatever the Menu offered and leave the Calling Card. The Menu here would not contain the Specialties available in the City Centre Branch, so Hari informed me when we discussed this some time in the past.

Ever the Gentleman, Hector let Marg enter the premises first. She immediately said – Hi – to the Chap standing in the dimness of the middle of the room. It was Hari. You are the last Man I wanted to see here today!     Caught!   Pinta’ Lager.

You are not meant to be here! – I exclaimed. This is my first time here in six weeks – replied Hari.

The Complimentary Poppadoms and Onion Chutney were on their way. The Sparkling Water was arranged and Marg consulted as to her preference. This was not a Pinta’ Lager. Hari then stated that we would be having the Keema Padora – … as it was first perfected here.

The Table was filling up, I was reminded of my first visits to the Charing Cross branch. Can we see a Menu? I had to ask. My reason for being here was to sample the food on offer to the locals, not have a Chef Gurmeet Dish magically appear. The plan was scuppered, I would have to take advice. There were three Dishes on the Menu fit for a Hector. The Garam Masala, the Malaidar and the Punjabi Garlic Chilli. Hari dismissed the Malaidar on my behalf, I would find it too Creamy. I agree, Spinach and Cream is a strange combination, but common across Europe. The Punjabi Garlic Chilli had the Narrow Margin. Chapattis at a sensible 60p would be the Accompaniments.

Marg’s had spotted a Dish that was right up her street. Not only did The Chef’s Special Curry feature Chicken, Lamb and Prawns, it had Fruit in Delicate Punjabi Spices also Herbs, then garnished with Pineapple. One Chapatti.

As The Lone Diners, we had Hari to ourselves, although a Lady did appear to be involved in the Takeaway side of things. Hari and his Waiter took a steady number of Phone-calls during our stay and various sizes of Curry Cargo were dispatched. I reminisced more about the 1970s and my first visits here. Some Chaps took a table on the opposite side of the room. They weren’t expecting to see Hari either.

Pinta’ Lager.

The Keema Padora, at Source

It was Marg who remarked first on the quality of this Dish. She was not too bothered about a Starter today, but as she took the second Quarter I knew she had fully appreciated this Marvel. This is Ground Lamb rather than what might be referred to as Lamb Mince. Almost a Paste – was Marg’s observation. With the Puri style Bread Base (or is there a subtle difference?), the Raw Onion Slices and the totally Dry Texture, this ticks all of Hector’s Curry Boxes. A couple of these would still make an ideal Main Course.

The Curry

The Waiter brought the Curry, Lamb Punjabi Garlic Chilli, – Desi-style – he said as he popped it down. Desi-style, now this would not have been the case without Hari present. The Plan was well and truly scuppered. This Curry was Hot! Steaming Hot. It is a joy when the food comes straight from the kitchen and has not sat waiting ten minutes to be discovered by a passing waiter. The Lamb was as Soft as Tender Lamb can be. How they can keep the Lamb like this and stop it turning to Mush is a mystery. The Masala was Thick with Onion, a great combination. The Chapattis had the Girth and the Diameter. A true Chapatti! The Curry was Splendid, but how could it not be? This Venue has a Pedigree going back decades.

Marg’s Special did not look dissimilar to mine. The Masala was identical. As with the Garlic Chilli , the Special was Steaming Hot. Half a Padora meant Marg had no chance finishing her Dish. Again the Lamb was commented upon favourably. The Variety of Meats did the trick, but where was the Fruit? No Pineapple Garnish, no Fruit evident in the Dish. The Fruit must have been Lost in Translation.

I was let loose on the leftovers. The Prawn had added a slight Sweetness to Marg’s Special. A rather large piece of Chicken had to be tackled. Hector eats Chicken? It tasted like – Chicken. No Curry influence at all. I rest my case.

The Bill

£22.30. This was a very modest total. Prices out of the City Centre would be expected to be lower. There was a banner outside advertising a Buffet at £8.95. Marg heard one of the recent arrivals ask for The Buffet. No Buffet was set up. Is it case that at the Punjabi one can order what one wishes for a flat fee as some Chinese Restaurants now offer? The only way to compete with City Centre Buffets? Hari will no doubt solve the mystery when next we meet.

The Aftermath

Hari appreciated the fact that my first Curry in a week was at his establishment. My last Glasgow Curry was at his other outlet.

Pinta’ Lager?

One night, long ago, Neil, Tubby and Hector headed along from a Cessnock Hostlery to Ibrox for a Curry at The Modern Punjabi. Top stave off Hunger, Tubby ordered Chicken Balls at a local Takeaway en route. As we entered the Punjabi, Tubby ordered – Pinta’ Lager! As we sat at our table he ordered again – Pinta’ Lager! The Waiter assured him his Lager was on the way. No, this is the next one I’m ordering now. A Lager Legend.

Update 2014

If you want Keema Padora you’ll have to go to the Punjabi Charing Cross.

Hari and Family have sublet to a new business.

Update 2015

Bill, the founder of the Modern Punjabi has contacted Hector.  This story will hopefully develop further.  Meanwhile here is a photo of the Original Menu.

Modern Punjabi Menu-001

 Yes it is a bit faint.  I cannot see the price of a Pinta’ Lager!

Posted in Punjabi Ibrox | 2 Comments

Royal Spice – Peterborough

Posted on May 26, 2013 by Hector

Peterborough, the home of Oakham Ales. The Company split today, those had been at Oakham yesterday went to Norwich. Clive, Maggie, Marg and Hector went to Peterborough. For the record, this was a Cambridge Weekend. Mid-afternoon Marg did ask if I was correct to assume that the Crawley Two would be wanting Curry for Dinner. I referred Marg to last September when Maggie conspired to have us eat at two Curry Houses in the space of three hours. Some research had convinced Hector that the Royal Spice (10 Park Rd, Peterborough, Cambridgeshire PE1 2TD) would be the venue to explore. That it was just off Westgate where the Oakham Brewery Tap is located was an added bonus, though there were two more venues nearby I had dismissed.

At 19.00 we entered, the first customers of the shift. The Menu was supplied, Poppadoms were declined. If they wanted us to have then they should have just brought them. I also dislike paying for them. The Menu confirmed we had just saved about £7.00 in doing so (Dips included).

Starters

Marg and Hector agreed to share a Royal Mix Starter. Maggie would have one to herself permitting Clive to order a Seekh Kebab, again for himself. Having ordered the Seekh Kebab, Clive asked out of the blue if a Shami Kebab was available. The order was changed, the Shami Kebba was not on the Menu. This would prove to be the turning point in the visit. Clive would soon announce that this was – This is quite possibly Best Shami Kebab I have ever had. If they can produce a Shami Kebab this good, why is it not on the Menu? Mein Host would be informed soonest. The Royal Mix comprised of a single large piece of Lamb Tikka, three pieces of Chicken Tikka and a single Seekh Kebab. This is gorgeous – remarked Maggie. The three of us thoroughly enjoyed this, for Marg and Hector a bit of a departure from our normal, and occasional, Starter intake. Hector was spending a lot of time making notes.

The Old Hector Adage – If the Starters are this good, I worry about the Quality of The Mains – was proclaimed. So far, very good indeed. By now Clive was missing India and was suggesting that he and Maggie should be making plans for another visit. Remember, Marg was worried they might not necessarily wish to eat Curry this evening.

The Mains

Hector had a choice of two Dishes, the Royal Special Methi or a Lamb Karahi. I was on the verge of asking to combine the merits of both when Mein Host described how Dry his Methi would be. Medium with a kick – is an expression I may have now introduced to Peterborough, Hector was sorted. Well nearly. A Stuffed Paratha at £2.45 felt better value than multiple Chapattis (£1.30).

Marg chose the Special Kachila, – Mince Meat Balls with Herbs and Spice in a Creamy Sauce with Cumin Flavour. This I have never seen before, interesting choice, Marg.  Oh, and a Chapatti too. Maggie ordered the Royal Special Fry which would include Lamb and Chicken Tikka in a Soy Sauce. Finally, Clive always takes me back to basics when he orders a Chicken Dhansak, something I have noticed he orders when eating – On The Road. The obligatory Keema Nan would be the Accompaniment plus a Mushroom Rice, to share.

Mein Host was well onside by this time. I asked about the origins of the Restaurant having remarked that the Menu was not necessarily the same as the Punjabi/Bangladeshi Fare on offer in Glasgow. I was assured they are of Bangladeshi origin.

A Trolley was wheeled out, I spotted the Dish I hoped would be not mine, the Dhansak possibly. It was Bright Orange and turned out to be Marg’s Kachila. Far too Soup-like for The Hector. Now a bit of research offers Kachila as Raw Meat, surely not? Marg questioned the Dish too, there were no Meat Balls, ah, – Sliced Lamb Mince was Marg’s observation. Marg described her Dish as – enjoyable, different, with a good kick. She was definitely aware of the Cumin. The Least Likely Choice had impressed.

Maggie did well with her Special Fry but could not finish it, Maggie’s verdict – Fried to Perfection, lots of Meat, and the Kick is not too strong.

Didn’t finish? There was only a few pieces of Onion remaining. I managed a sample – Fine.

Clive waded through his Chicken Dhansak, share of the Mushroom Rice and his Keema Nan. This is what I would have hoped for last night – was an early remark. The Keema Nan was described as – Good, the only fault being the size, despite being twice the size of last night’s. The Mushroom Rice was certainly enough to share. Clive became more and more positive as he ate more. My mouth is enough on fire to say that is good, not enough to say it is painful.

And now for The Methi

Twelve decent sized pieces of Lamb were shrouded in the desired Dry-ish-Thick Masala. The Lamb was a bit on the Chewy side but not excessively so. With a bit more Seasoning and even more Methi this could have reached the level of Outstanding.  Hector is spoiled by his Favourite venues who cook to the Hector Palate. The Stuffed Paratha was not Huge and was manageable.  It is good to finish one on occasion, an impossible task in most Glasgow Restaurants. The Herb content of the Paratha combined with the Minimal Masala made for very good eating.  I can have no complaints whatsoever, this was a very good Curry.

Lord Clive of Crawley made a Declaration –

That is one of the Best Indian’s we have had in a long time.

The Bill

The Bill was asked for but did not come until much later.  In the interim Mein Host insisted we have a Short  – On The House.  Marg chose Coffee, three had Brandy.  By now the conversation was flowing.  The Calling Card was produced, another was asked for. The Co-Waiter was involved in the action too.  That we knew our Curry impressed them both.  I suggested that coming here for the first time I could not expect them to cook to exactly how I like my Curry, but it was agreed that they could cook to any requirement.

£62.85 was asked for, appreciably more was given.  We had been well fed and well looked after.

This is a Venue we shall return to.  It is a Pity that trips to Peterborough are so rare.

 

Update August 2015

Peterborough Indiya Garden Curry-Heute (4)Peterborough Indiya Garden Curry-Heute (3)

Royal Spice has gone.  The premises are currently being transformed into the Indiya Garden.

Posted in [Royal Spice] | 1 Comment

Cambridge – Inder’s Kitchen

Posted on May 25, 2013 by Hector

No sooner had the weekend trip to Cambridge been conceived than Lord Clive of Crawley was informing Hector of an potentially outstanding Takeaway near the Travelodge where we would all be resident. Clive listens to Radio 4, here he gleaned the saga of Inder’s Kitchen (43 Clifton Rd, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, CB1 7ED) located in an Industrial Unit behind Cambridge Station. Clive had made contact with Mein Host by email, an invitation had been extended to visit. This was followed up with a phone-call yesterday. It was suggested we go at 15.00, ironically the exact time Hector would normally start a Saturday with a Late Lunch/Early Dinner. But we would be some distance away from base by this time, there was also the matter of allowing time for today’s Midday Curry to settle.

Around 19.00, we hailed a taxi from Jesus Green and headed towards Inder’s Kitchen dropping off Marg and Maggie en route at the Travelodge. Both needed a Time-Out.

With no shop, I had to open the door of premises to secure a Menu. We went back outside to make our choices. By this time we were already in conversation with the Delivery Drivers. The Main Chap’s moped was now off the road, he would spend a considerable time with us both inside and out. We were permitted to re-enter the Unit to place the order, by this time Mein Host had worked out who we were, but was far too busy to engage us. A well organised Curry Machine was in operation.

Lamb Rogan Josh looked the best dish for Hector, – Our ever popular Kashmiri curry, with lean leg of lamb diced and simmered in onions, ginger, garlic and tomatoes. Clive spotted Pork which is certainly rare on our (Punjabi/Bangladeshi) local Menus. Pork Sorpotel for Clive – A classic Goan Christmas dish which may have been partly created by the Portuguese settlers looking for ways to preserve meat. Sweet, sour and fiery! – it claimed. The Accompaniments were not a straightforward choice. Vegetable Rice was over £6.00 and so a share of Steamed Rice was more realistic. Cumin seed tava nan would back this up. Two pieces made up a portion, a fact we would forget and be partially enraged by later when we thought we had paid around £2.75 for one.

The Bill #1

The figure of £23.00 comes to mind. We may have received a discount for – Being there -, the quality of the conversation with the Main Driver kept us amused. In fact it had to keep us amused because we found ourselves waiting for a very long time.

We were stood at the laptop and watched the orders come in on-line. The phone rang every few minutes and so Doris was kept busy processing the orders. I asked the Delivery Chap what happened if they were very late or made errors. He then outlined a discount scheme or the choice of a complementary Chocolate Brownie which he described as – to die for. Knowing that Marg and Maggie would certainly not welcome us back empty handed with this tale, two were requested. For legal reasons we had to go back outside as the Curry was not allowed to change hands indoors. We were then asked for another £6.50 to cover the Brownies. Better be good.

The Bill #2

£30.00-ish in total. Clive had also arranged for us to be supplied with Paper Plates and Plastic Cutlery as we could not expect to eat in the Travelodge dining area, and fingers was the alternative.

Eventually

And it was a long time, near enough an hour because FC Bayern were already a goal up on Dortmund by the time we walked back. No plates or cutlery were supplied, even when I went back in to ask. We won’t mention that Marg had locked herself out of the room in her excitement at me phoning to say I was on my way. (oops) Crockery Plates and Metal Cutlery were supplied by the Travelodge with no fuss whatsoever. Clean plates and utensils were returned afterwards.

The Unveiling of The Curry

WTF? The Nans were tiny. Just as well I kept a Menu to verify that it was two for the price charged. The Curry was even smaller! Is that it?

I immediately counted the Meat, eight pieces of Lamb, it looked much less. Within acceptable parameters? Maybe not. When scooped on to a half share of the Rice the portion still looked decidedly small. This would not be a feast. When once considers the quantity of Pakora alone one receives in a Glasgow Tea-Time Special Takeaway, never mind the volume of Curry to follow, this was simply nonsense. Never mind, it might still be an outstanding Curry, after-all they were up for an Award.

Hector has absolutely nothing to report on the Taste Front. Three Green Cardamoms made an appearance on the side of the plate, to no effect. The Nan was decidedly Salty, just as well, it was the only part of the meal which had any strong Flavour. It was Curry, I love Curry. I have never had one, I don’t know, but I imagine a Takeaway from Asda would on a par with this.

Meanwhile Clive was announcing his disappointment, over and over. Quiet Noise (?) was his overall verdict. I think that’s what he said.

If the Good People of Cambridge are happy to order from Inder’s Kitchen then then don’t let me stop them. Surely Mill Road has better to offer?

There’s More

The Brownies. The smallest pieces of Cake  sat in the plastic container. £3.25 for this? I have a Pizza brochure sitting beside me as I write, offering four pieces of Chocolate Brownies for £3.29. Nothing special – said Marg. Quite solid, Brownies should melt in the mouth. Hector wouldn’t know, he has never seen the attraction. No Chocolate in it whatsoever – was Maggie’s verdict.

As Clive would later remark – At that price I expected a Girl Guide, not a Brownie.

Posted in Inder's Kitchen | 1 Comment

Prana – A Luncthime Cambridge Curry

Posted on May 25, 2013 by Hector

Serendipity rules

Prana (97 Mill Road Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, CB1 2AW) was my third choice of Curry House this lunchtime. Having watched Marg eat Breakfast in a Posh French Restaurant sufficient time had passed to permit a visit to the Taj Tandoori (Cherry Hinton Rd.) near the Cambridge Travelodge. It was not open at noon as an unreliable source suggested. There was nothing for it but to walk to Mill Rd, where there is a cluster of outlets. Golden Curry was open, but then we were confronted by a group of Chaps painting and decorating. They would be open at six I was told. Too late.

A few metres towards town the first venue encountered on the same side of the street was Prana. Two tables occupied the small area at the entrance, both were occupied by staff who quickly vacated them – The Chef and The Waiter. This is a Basement venue but I never did make it downstairs, next time.

A Menu for one was obtained, Marg’s turn to watch me eat. The Gosht Kata Masala stood out from the rest. It was described as being – thick medium with Onion, Fresh Ginger and …the Green Mushy Vegetable. Chapattis were on offer at £2.25, no chance. A Stuffed Paratha at £2.75 had to be better value.

The Waiter was over in due time to take the order. The was no problem in ditching the ubiquitous Capsicum – Can I have extra Coriander instead? – I enquired.

Why at this stage do restaurants not offer an alternate Interesting Vegetable? I may have written this before, dozens of times.

A Chap who was obviously Mein Host came in and sat at the adjacent table. He acknowledged us formally as he entered, good touch. The first customers of the day. The Prana website suggests they are quite new in town. The décor was fresh, the toilet immaculate.

After a decent time to suggest this dish had not just be scraped together, a rather impressive looking Curry was set before me, along with a modest sized Paratha. I had to give the thumbs up, this should do the job nicely.

The Masala was decidedly on the Thick side as hoped for, and certainly not excessive. This was a good distance from Soup. Onion was to the fore, large pieces, maybe I had been given more having narrowed the range. Pieces of Spring Onion were then revealed and a solitary cooked Tomato, enough variation. First thoughts were of the Vegetables dominating, the Lamb was in sufficient quantity but buried. With the generous topping of Fresh Coriander and the Large Onion slices there was a distinctive overall Flavour, one I recognised and put down the the Onion. The crunch from the Coriander gave a near Gritty Texture at times making me think about Chettinad which is always a good thing. The Paratha had been filled with more Coriander, Onion and a little Red Capsicum. This complemented the Curry very well indeed. For lunch this was a perfect combination. One could not claim this to be in the very top league of say Bradford/Glasgow at their best, but given that this was a totally random choice of Venue, I had to admit to being impressed and surprised. Very enjoyable.

The Bill

£15.60. This included the obligatory Sparkling Water.

The Aftermath

The Calling Card was received with interest. Another Chap came out to see the Curry-Heute Website and marvelled at the sheer number of places visited never mind the quantity of Curry consumed. Sadly, Mein Host had gone and so could not receive my congratulations. The Chap I considered to be The Chef wrote out a recommendation for me, his brother’s restaurant. If I ever find out where Essex is, I might give it a try.

In the meantime, eleven of The Chaps were waiting on Jesus Green with Herr Schellenberg’s Biers. It is the last day of the Cambridge Beer Festival.

A Recommendation from Prana

Undaal Indian Cuisine, Brantwood, Essex.

Postscript

Passing Mill Road much later, Golden Curry was indeed open for business, maybe next time.

Postscript

Kobir, the Owner of Prana has been in touch.  It was good to hear from him directly.  The two Chaps I met were his Waiters.  I am also invited to check out Malik’s, part of the Family Chain. Well of course, Hector seeks Quality Curry.  I feel a visit to Malik’s,  Cookham, Berkshire is now on the agenda.

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Stuffed Karela? – It’s The Punjabi Charing Cross!

Posted on May 17, 2013 by Hector

The table for this evening’s outing to The Punjabi Charing Cross (157-159 North St, Glasgow G3 7DA) was booked two weeks ago, a Neat Hector Strategy. This would give Hari, Mein Host, enough notice to arrange to serve up his Unique Home Cooked Stuffed Karela – Cooked by Mrs Hari. Tonight was a special occasion, John and Judith were joining us in Glasgow for the first time, The Huddersfield Two. Dr. Stan is also back from his travels and so the Friday Night Ritual Curry was scheduled for 17.00.

Dr. Stan was first to arrive then put off by no sign of life and a sign that did say – Open at 6pm. That cannot be right, we have been here earlier than this before.

The lights came on and in we went. John and Judith arrived via the adjacent Bon Accord, we would retire there afterwards.

The Complementary Poppadoms and Onion Chutney were brought to the table immediately.

Dr. Stan has not savoured the new Mandatory Starter – Keema Padora. We would share this.

Lamb Gurmeet for Hector with two Chapattis. Hari asked if I wanted it on or off. I stated I didn’t mind but he chose – on – it has more Flavour – he assured me. Dr. Stan opted for Lamb Karahi and Judith Chicken Karahi both boneless. Dr. Stan would stick with Chapattis, Judith a Pilau Rice. John announced his preference to eat after Ale rather before. A Starter would suffice. Hari offered John some options – Sea Bass was agreed upon, a Good Choice. Karela was never mentioned, but was anticipated.

I was confident that Dr. Stan would be impressed by the Keema Padora, not a difficult prediction to make. This Starter ticks all the boxes. A Light Starter of Seriously Dry Mince served on a Puri. I then related how I persuaded Chef Gurmeet to serve me this Keema as a Main Course on my last visit, with added Methi of course One suspects Dr. Stan may be up for this.

The Mains arrived after a suitable amount of time to let the Keema Padora go down. The Lamb Gurmeet and Chapattis came first followed by the Sea Bass. The Karahi (both), more Chapattis and the Rice came soon after. The Final Piece of the Jigsaw then made an almost ceremonial entrance. Three pieces of the Driest Looking Karela ever were set before us. Hari was proud to announce that this evening the Karela had been stuffed with Keema. Hector was being spoiled once again.

The Lamb Gurmeet was everything the Hector demands in a Curry. Full of Flavour with Methi to the fore. The Dry Thick Masala complementing the perfectly cooked Lamb. Beware of small bits of Bone. Two Chapattis of the Girth served here can be eaten on occasion. One and a half is the normal intake. Add to this the Karela. John and Judith had a small soupçon, not for them. This was for Dr. Stan and Hector. Bitter, Beautiful, the perfect accompaniment to a Curry.

John made short work of his Fish. He was most impressed by this delicacy. His appetite was now whetted. Judith ate her fill and thoroughly enjoyed what she had eaten. John came to her rescue, my Half Chapatti was all that was left.

The Bill

£48.95. This included two Sparkling Waters and a Half Pint of Cobra. The Karela was also Complementary.

The Aftermath

A Classic Bon Accord Friday Night, featuring Jonathan, Howard, Tracey and eventually Clive and Maggie. Something is afoot…

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Home Cooked Prawn Curry

Posted on May 16, 2013 by Hector

A Tale of Two Ingredients

The Standard Masala was prepared as features in Hector’s normal Curry Making however two variations were available this evening.

Curryspondent Archie supplied Hector with a Portion of Garam Masala specially prepared in a Pollokshields Grocer. This became the Dominant Spice added to the Mix. On my last visit to KRK, supplier of Curry Ingredients to Hector, I picked up a tub of Karela Pickle. This has to become a new Standard Ingredient. Uncooked Jumbo Prawns felt like the perfect Meat to sample this combination.

Marg has been less than hungry for the past few days and so a minimal portion was dished. Hector had his usual.

Marg gasped on her first taste, the Kick was beyond what she was expecting. Was this down to the New Garam Masala? My turn. Indeed there was a significant Kick but it was not OTT. Archie, I shall experiment more. The Karela Pickle was used sparingly so as not to take over the entire creation. In future I will cut the pieces up even smaller, but the anticipated Dry and Tangy Flavour emerged very quickly. This was a modest success.

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A Post-Post Wedding Curry in Glasgow, Not Berlin

Posted on May 11, 2013 by Hector

The Aftermath of the Main Event of the day was drawing to a natural conclusion.  I refer to The Wedding of Craig and Yvonne, not the lunchtime Curry with Marg at Mother India’s Café. Marg had retired thereafter, she needed some rest.

Ricky, The Man from Bradford, and his friend Mick who last featured in a Krakow Curry Report were hungry.  Where are we going for a Curry?  From The Laurieston there is one seriously close venue, especially when Mr. Boyd is going to be in tow.  The New Karahi Palace (51-53 Nelson Street, Glasgow, G5 8DZ) is one block away.  I phoned to ensure they would still serve four Diners at 23.00, no problem.  This is an ideal venue to take Two Men from Bradford.

Shahed welcomed us with his now customary smile.  This is what The New Karahi Palace has badly needed.  We stood at the counter and inspected what was on offer.  The last couple of visits have not been at the ridiculously high standard I have come to expect at this venue.  I would take no chances this time.  Karela?  Fine, served as Dry as.. , well-Seasoned and with extra Methi.  Plus two Chapattis please.  Mr. Holden listened and decided this would his order too.  Mr. Boyd joined the gang but asked for a lower Salt content.  Mr. Boyd also insists on Rice.  Is this because he likes Rice or because Ricky always gets wound up?
As in Krakow, Mick had something off the wall, literally.  The Wall is where the Menu is posted.  Onion Rings followed by Tarka Daal with a Nan. I have seen Mick eat Meat.

Rasheed, the Chef, was no doubt grateful that the order was this simple.  The Tarka Daal was on display and so just needed re-heating.  The Lamb (on-the-bone) Karahi Karela times three should surely be a labour of joy.

It was election night in Pakistan, I know a Voter, or two.  The results were coming in…

Mick’s Onion Rings were first to appear.  Served with a Cold Sauce he was getting stuck in when some Chapattis appeared.  Shahed would top the Basket up as and when.  These Chapattis are the Real McCoy, Substantial and not the Wafer-Thin samples served in so many outlets.  And if one insist on charging for them the price is certainly within acceptable parameters.

Here come the Karahi!
When the Curry at The New Karahi Palace is on top form it is as good as anywhere else in the City of Glasgow.  Tonight it was up to standard.  The Bone content was not excessive, the Lamb cooked exactly right.  The Minimal Masala was well seasoned as asked for, save Mr. Boyd’s.  The Karela was not just sliced and added in; it was part of the Beautifully Thick Masala as was the Methi.  This was a Bitter a Masala as I have ever experienced.   Methi and Karela, Hector’s favourite combination, and Dr. Stan is still in Bedford…. It makes the Bitterness even Sweeter.

When it’s this good it makes me want to go straight back for my next meal…

The Bill
£36.60.  No Starters, no Drinks, just Curry for Four.  And not just any Curry, one of The Best.

The Aftermath
A Taxi was arranged as we were all headed North West.  The Staff were waiting for us to depart.  On our leaving there had to be a Mass Photo.  There are other Chaps behind the scenes.  Rasheed is The Man.

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Glasgow – Mother India’s Cafe – A Post Wedding Curry in Glasgow, not in Berlin

Posted on May 11, 2013 by Hector

In the middle of a rather dreich Saturday afternoon, Marg and Hector bade temporary farewell to Craig and Yvonne, the newlyweds, who went off in search of Italian Food with their nearest and dearest.  We were not invited.  The Laurieston would host us  later, but The Big Bash is at the Staggs (Musselburgh) next Saturday.
Marg had the choice of venue today, so Mother India’s Café (1355 Argyle Street  Glasgow, G3 8AD) it was.  Their Butter Chicken remains Marg’s favourite Curry served anywhere.  Creamy, not excessive Coconut, with a moderate Kick and a modest hence manageable Tapas portion.  Well that’s Marg’s lunch reviewed and we haven’t it ordered yet.

We were given a choice of tables, one at the window, one in the far corner.  We took the window but the next couple were moved from the adjacent window table to the said corner.  Being mid-afternoon the place was not stowed but was still doing steady business.
The Menu was presented.  It is some eleven months since our last visit; they have tweaked the Menu a wee bit.  The Specials are now handwritten in a box on the back side. 
No Kofta Palak, this venue has served Hector the best Kofta Palak, ever!  And only once.  Am I never to experience this again? (Correction, it may well have been Lamb Kofta.)
Regular Currypsondents will know that the Machi Maslala is my favourite Dish here.  I have written  that I could eat four portions of what is served here as Tapas.  One day I should.  Lamb Karahi would be a perfect balance, but wait, Hector has just spotted Daal Makhni!   It was only last summer that I was introduced to this delight, and in European Curry Houses.  It remains quite a rarity in Glasgow.  One Chapatti (95p) and the customary Lemon and Cashew Nut Rice would accompany.

Marg wasn’t too hungry, perhaps she was coming down with something.
The litre bottle of Sparkling Water is reasonable value and that kept us amused whilst we waited.  This time the Dishes came in a sensible order.

The Fish was set before Hector and this was tackled initially with some Chapatti, but then I realised I would need the Chapatti for the Daal.  I ate the Machi Masala straight, it was a total delight. I could eat this every day – was my remark as I savoured every morsel.
The consistency of this Dish astonishes, the Citrus and the Fresh Coriander complement the strong Fish and Spice Melange, and seasoned to perfection.  If there is a better Fish Curry served anywhere in the UK then please advise.

The Lamb Karahi could not possibly compete with the Machi Masala.  Had I eaten it first it may have.  Six good sized pieces of Lamb at three quarters the normal price of a full portion.  The value felt good.  The Lamb felt better than the quality served in some venues.  The Minimal and Thick Masala looked the part but was under seasoned.  Or was this just down to the following the Fish?   Capsicum had been included, I should have checked.  Pieces started to pile  up on the plate.
The Daal Makhni was served in the copper handled pot I have encountered in Europe.  A Tapas portion is more than adequate.  Hector is not turning Veggie but finds this to be an excellent Side, a new distraction from the norm.  One feels noble eating Lentils, a realisation that this could well be the most authentic ingredient in the Orient, but this is Glasgow.  We hae Meat!

And yes, Marg’s Butter Chicken was exactly as described.
The Chap who appeared to be the Head Waiter cleared the table.  Too many Peppers? – he enquired. One is too many, I do not eat Capsicum with Curry – was Hector’s curt reply.
You had the Lamb Karahi – he stated.
Indeed, next time I shall remember to order without.

Again I ask every Chef on the planet, why do you think Capsicum has to be added to Curry?  It is not a standard ingredient in the Indian Subcontinent. There are many Interesting Vegetables that can be added, please try others.  Even Turnip!

The Bill
£26.25.  Typical if two had eaten a full portion each.  Hector did consume the majority, so a bit pricy based on one and a bit diners.

The Aftermath
We left Mother India’s Cafe just as Mr. Holden was due to fly into Glasgow Prestwick.  Guess what that means!

The Laurieston awaited.  Craig and Yvonne were free of family commitments; let the festivities-proper get underway.

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