Kirkwall – Orkney Islands – Indian Garden – Dine here at your Peril!

Posted on April 3, 2013 by Hector

A Garden without Herbs?

The only way to bring the Orcadian Venture to a conclusion was with Curry-Heute. Kirkwall’s other Curry House, Indian Garden (37 Junction Rd, Kirkwall, Orkney Islands, KW15 1AG) was the venue by default. Less has been written about this Curry House, so one concludes it is the newer of the two. Dil Se had impressed on Monday evening so there was an air of optimism. The Menu had been perused soon after arrival on Sunday as we passed by, there would be choice.

We entered around 19.30 to find The Lone Diner sitting one booth from the window. So why did the Waiter sit us right behind him, and in the window? I do not enjoy being Window Dressing.

The Menu was presented, Hector had the choice of Saag Wala which promised to contain Fenugreek and Spinach. Too much of this recently. The Balti was almost tempting as was the South Indian Chilli. The Karahi was calling, as long as the fated Capsicum could be excluded. This promised Green Herbs too.

Marg was attracted by the Lamb Tiger Special. The Menu claimed that once tasted it would never be forgotten. It was noted that no attempt had been made to describe The Taste. We agreed once again on sharing a Garlic Nan and Mushroom Rice.

The prices here were a few pence less than their only Curry Competition, there wasn’t much in it. The room sat potentially maybe forty covers. The Booths on our wall gave way to open seating in the main part of the room with a more private corner diagonally opposite where we were seated.

The order was given and accepted, no Capsicum. The Sparkling Water and an Apple Concoction were the Drinks of choice. The place was licensed.

There were audible scraping sounds coming from the Kitchen, Chef was busy. Very warm plates were set before us along with the candle lit dish warmer. Here comes the food.

The Cast Iron Karahi was set before Hector with a warning not to touch, yes it would be hot. Marg’s Tiger Dish and the Mushroom Rice were sat on the warmer. The roundish Nan arrived moments later.

Red

Just how Red can a Curry be? The Karahi had Lamb in there somewhere, the Meat content was insufficient. There was an abundance of Roughly Cut Onions, indeed this looked, felt and tasted like an Onion Curry. The Masala was, Red and Oily, as in Really Red. Have I described how Red the Meal was in sufficient detail to describe the colour? If Red has a Taste, I tasted it. All I could taste from the Curry was Onion.  Green Herbs?  Where?

The Mushrooms from the Rice stood out as it had at Dil Se, good Mushrooms up here. Dipping a piece of Nan brought no more to the Palate, this was a Garlic Nan?

Marg’s Curry was basically a Patia with Nuts on top, and it was Red too. I had to taste it to verify the Masala was not the same as the Karahi, the Tiger Masala was much sweeter. This suited Marg, but one day she will crave Karela and put these Sweet Dishes behind her. Marg found the Bight-Sized pieces of Tender Lamb, and it was definitely Lamb, to her liking. She too found the Mushroom Rice to be the stand-out part of the Meal.  (I noted that for a Mainstream Curry, Tender Lamb was not an option, only Beef.)

The Waiter Returned

A few weeks ago at The Village, Marg felt she had to speak out, today it was Hector’s turn. When asked the customary question I had to answer honestly. I have a plate of Onions here, and why it it so Red? The Waiter told me it was from The Spices. I challenged this immediately – Spices do not colour Curry like this, only Food Dye does. I stated clearly – I am disappointed. He retreated.

 The Bill

£26.30. This included two Soft Drinks.

The Aftermath

The Calling Card was offered and accepted – I will have a look – Hector was assured. The Waiter offered an explanation as to the Redness of the Food – It is from the Tomato Purée, it is not Dye. Aye right! I was asked on departure if I was local. I don’t know if my answer helped.

Marg was somewhat embarrassed with proceedings and was worried that I had not enjoyed my final Orcadian Meal. But this is all part of the Great Experience that is Curry.

Not since the Swarg (Bamberg, Bayern) have I been given such a poor Curry. Had it been a Mainstream Curry, say Dopiaza, I might have been more forgiving, but Karahi? Come on.

I suggest those behind Indian Garden reconsider what they present as Curry, this does not pass muster.

Update – The Morning After

Hector became reacquainted with his intake from the Indian Garden at 04.00, 06.00 and in multi-formats at 08.00 and 09.30.  In the three years of writing Curry-Heute this is a first.

Indian Garden, Kirkwall deserves the accolade of Worst Curry-Heute Experience.  Go to Dil Se.

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Kirkwall – Orkney Islands – Dil Se – Hector’s First Orcadian Curry

Posted on April 1, 2013 by Hector

Curry in The Pink

Hector and Marg get the Spring Vacation under-way, proper, with a first ever trip to Orkney. Hector tends to fly South towards the Sun, this year there is no Heat outside of The Tropics in the Northern Hemisphere we feel. Arriving yesterday by ‘Plane we spent the afternoon familiarising ourselves with Kirkwall and locating the Two Curry Houses. Dil Se (7 Bridge St, Kirkwall, Orkney Islands KW15 1HR) with its garish Pink Exterior certainly was not difficult to spot. Prior research had suggested that this may be the better of the two, however, Indian Garden may have the better Menu. We shall see, hopefully.

After a very long day covering the West and North of what the Orcadians call The Mainland, Hector was ready for Curry-Heute. Skara Brae had lived up to expectations, the Broch of Gurness was unknown until today, whilst the time spent with Rob at the Highland Brewery, Swannay, will be written up Bier-Traveller.

Entering just before 18.00 we were the first customers of the day. We were given a table with four settings on the right of the long room. The Exterior Pink had been maintained inside too. With the Interior Lighting, Pink did not feel out of place. In fact the Interior was well decorated, there was Space too. The Orcadian small windows had made it difficult to see in. One should not let the Pink be off-putting.

Mein Host presented the Menu, now there was Fun to be had here, and not a Flag in sight. Main Courses were available at say £8.90. The price with Rice or Nan was listed beside this, at £11.90. There was no saving whatsoever, Puzzling. Can people not add? The table had an advertisement offering a 20% Discount, or to be precise a Fixed Price of £16.00 for Starter, Main Course plus Nan/Rice. What Starter costs £8.00 in order to create a total of £20.00 so that a saving of £4.00 could made? Perhaps they do hope people cannot add?

We decided to go a la carte and no Starters. Having dismissed the page of Tikka Dishes, this did not leave a large selection. The words Karahi, Methi and Fenugreek were not spotted on the Menu. Vindaloo was considered, Balti was dismissed. Once again I was in the mood for Rice. The Mushroom Rice looked appropriate. Marg jumped in at this point and stated she was having Lamb Achari. This was described as being Mango based and not the expected Pickle. A Garlic Nan would accompany. So Rogon Josh it was for The Hector. But there’s more. Marg had spotted another Special Offer on the Menu, buy two Sides and make a genuine saving. I fancied a Side of Bombay Aloo. I had to explain to Marg that Rice is a Sundry and Aloo a Side, so again no saving.

The £4.95 charge for a Bottle of Sparkling Water was dismissed as ridiculous. At £1.60 for a 330ml Bottle, well I shall let the Reader do the Arithmetic this time…

The order was placed, the wait was worryingly short. When the Waiter pushed the Trolley out after only a few minutes I felt we were in for something quite poor, we would as it happened be pleasantly surprised. The Achari was the classic Soup-like Masala. I was glad I had not ordered this. Marg took some of the impressive Vegetable Rice (OK, Mushroom was dominant), there was more than enough to share. She then dipped with the Tasty Garlic Nan quarter confirming a Sweet and Mango Flavoured Masala. This Marg liked, but it was far too Sweet for Hector. Marg went on to remark that there was a strong similarity to Patia but as the Masala was not the customary Patia-Red, the Pale Brown worked. Let Patia be enjoyed by those who order Chicken, in our book, Lamb Patia does not work. Hector has cooked it, never again.

The Rogon Josh was a completely different Dish. With plentiful Lamb and a better than average viscous Masala, this Dish had promise. We both knew we were eating Lamb, the quality of the Meat was excellent. Onion Slices and the customary Half-cooked Tomato gave the Dish the justifiable Rogon Josh nomenclature. There was a decent Kick and a Flavour I have never experienced before, Earthy is how Marg described her sample. It helps when the Co-Diner adds a new Adjective. The Bombay Aloo turned out to be the Perfect Accompaniment. There was an Aromatic Flavour from the Potatoes, not my usual Methi Blast. Aromatic and Earthy, a Curry with Flavour! This is not always the case. Some tiny pieces of the dreaded Green Capsicum appeared from the Rice but this was negligible, well almost. The Rice with Bits did enhance the overall experience even the Mushrooms tasted of em, Mushroom! I had a Quarter of the Nan to mop up the excess Masala.

This was a well above average Curry Experience in a Restaurant with a Modest but Mainstream Menu.

The Bill

£33.40. Marg had a Soft Drink and a Coffee too, so with the Side Dish, this is exactly what would be paid back in Glasgow. No Savings, but a Decent Price.

The Aftermath

The Calling Card was presented and explained. The Waiter showed it to his Colleague who had been present throughout. Our Curry Pedigree was outlined. Glasgow was acknowledged as being a City of Curry. Birmingham was then bid by our Hosts, we saw their Birmingham and raised them a Bradford. Pleasant Chaps.

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The New Karahi Palace was missing Hector

Posted on March 30, 2013 by Hector

After two very Mainstream Curry-Heute Experiences, it was time for Hector to return to the Tried and Tested, and usually Excellent.

The New Karahi Palace (51-53 Nelson Street, Glasgow, G5 8DZ) was long overdue a return visit. The relaunching off the nearby Village must have set them back again. Only someone who truly knows their Curry would chose to enter these very modest premises.

Shahed was still behind the counter, so Hector was recognised on entry. Rasheed, the Chef was still in situ and acknowledges me too, all was well.

Shahed looked at me and uttered Lamb Karahi, he then upgraded this to Karela. The Lamb Karahi Karela at this venue is not to be missed. I have been given a lot of Soup-like Curry in my most recent Elsewhere Curry Sojourns which would have been better with Rice. After the wonderful Vegetable Rice at Yadgar last Saturday this Accompaniment has bubbled up once again in Hector’s preferred Standard. No Vegetable Rice was on offer and so I negotiated a Half-Portion of Aloo Mutter, this would enhance the overall Vegetable Experience.

I took my usual seat, again the Lone Diner, the Takeaway business was continuous. Shahed came over with the Complementary Salad and Raita. He confirmed that I did not need a Chapatti, he has never known me to have anything else.

Where have you been?

I had to explain my three month absence. I have many other places to visit and I must try new venues too. What I have found out is that when I do come to the Karahi Palace, I tend to return for a second visit soon after.

The Boss

A Chap I had never seen before came in and looked as if he knew his way about. He also nodded at The Lone Diner. He was straight behind the counter and was dishing out the Takeaways. He also helped himself to what he must have phoned in and disappeared. I was told later this was Ayaz, I had guessed correctly as to his status.

I sat with the Salad for a few moments with no weapons with which to eat it. As I called Rasheed he turned around with Cutlery in hand. I was only halfway through the Salad when Rasheed then brought my Mains. Not enough time had elapsed since giving the order. No way could this be up to the usual standard, it wasn’t.

The plate of Rice was Huge and Steaming Hot. The Rising Vapours from the Aloo Mutter are caught on photograph. The Karela Lamb looks wonderful too. Served as comprising of a Lamb Chop, more pieces of Lamb on-the-bone and plenty off, this could have been sublime. Clearly this was Lamb. Superficially everything about this looked perfect, alas there was an underlying Wateriness to the Masala. The Kick was there, the expected Flavours not. It was only when the thin strips of Karela were encountered that any real Flavour emerged, the classic Dry Bitterness. The taste-buds were working as was confirmed by the wonderful Potatoes and Peas. The Curry was not right. Next time back to basics, Lamb Karahi, Methi, Dry… I thought that was why I chose to come here tonight.

The Bill

£12.60.  For consecutive Curry Reports, The Boss was on The Premises, surely this does not make a difference?  I shall be back, one Off-Day is permissible, and I know what they are capable of.

The Aftermath

Rasheed to asked where I had been for the last few months. Two visits ago was sheer perfection, I could easily have moved in here. There are always more Curry Houses to try.

 

 

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Green Chilli Cafe, Glasgow’s West End

Posted on March 29, 2013 by Hector

Hector’s Holidays are Hectic, not Horrible

In the first full day of the spring vacation, Marg and Hector left their modest domicile and headed towards the West End. We have not been to Mother India’s Café for some time, still Marg’s favourite. Alas we were advised that it would be  twenty minutes before a table would be free, we did not have twenty minutes to wait. The adjacent Dining In had previously not impressed, despite being in the same chain. Ashoka West End, fundamental to the Harlequin chain beckoned but was not open at lunchtime. We crossed the road to another Harlequin venue, the Green Chilli Café (1293 Argyle St, Glasgow, G3 8TL), this would be our first visit.

This venue was known as The Spice of Life for years. The Manager would tell us that they relaunched under the present Moniker to serve Authentic Indian Food. The Menu did not convey anything out of the usual, but time would tell.

We were sat after a few moments of wondering if there was anyone on duty, at the window seat on the balcony. Two further upstairs rooms completed the seating area. The downstairs remains the Bar. Do folk enjoy being held here and plied with alcohol and hence run up a significant sum before being seated? The Waiter gave us the Menu and that was the last we saw of anyone. With my back to the room I could hear folk finishing off and leaving. The place might have been busy this Holiday Friday Lunchtime, a quieter period was looming. We sat, and sat, still no service. Eventually, having dealt with The Chaps seated behind me, Marg called over the presumably very busy Waiter. I told him we had been waiting more than ten minutes to place an order. Marg thought it was much more than ten. With a single Soft Drink priced around £2.50, the £3.50 for a Litre Bottle of Sparkling Water looked like the better option. The Waiter wrote this down and attempted to move away. Whoa!

You are ready to make your food order? – he asked. The Hector look was cast.

Marg had been looking forward to what she thinks is the best Butter Chicken anywhere, served at Mother India’s Café. She would try it here, along with a Mixed Pakora. All Dishes were available as Full Portions or Tapas at half the price. Half a Portion one then assumes.

I had Machi Masala in mind as we drove to the West End. The Goan Fish available at Green Chilli has a Coconut based Masala, not for me, today anyway. The Desi Lamb had to be tried. Bhindi Gosht was ordered just to maintain my Lamb levels. What did have Hector excited was the availability of Daal Makhani, a wonderful Dish I have only been served in Europe. I was puzzled to read Tomatoes as part of the Ingredients, hopefully there would be no Red Overdose. The order was recited. The Waiter wrote it down. Plain Paratha – he said, Hector had not spotted any other Paratha on offer, so why – Plain? Marg opted for a Roti (£1.00).

And so we began the wait, again. A Waitress came on duty, maybe the service might improve. By now we would have been much better waiting the twenty minutes at Mother India’s Café.  A lot of waiting.

Doris brought Marg’s Butter Chicken and her Roti. My Two Lamb Dishes were brought along with the Daal. No Paratha. Marg started whilst the food was hot. Hector had no means of eating his food without the Paratha. Yet another wait whilst my dishes cooled. Eventually, the Paratha and the Mixed Pakora arrived. There was an apology for the delay.

The Butter Chicken could not possibly be as good as…, it wasn’t. Marg described the Butter Chicken as being Sweet and to her Palate. She was surprised at the Tomato content and hence the Redness. Yes, a classic Plate of Soup, Tomato Soup! That Marg had to take some of my Paratha suggests the Roti could have been more substantial. The Pakora, normally a Starter, arriving last was amusing. The number of pieces was towards the minimal. When one compares what a typical Takeaway gives for a similar price then one is left to consider profiteering as a motive.. Haggis Pakora is no more than Haggis in Batter, the same essentially as served in any Chip Shop. I do not see the attraction.  A Gimmick? Enough on this.

The Desi Lamb had four Pieces of Meat, one cannot help examine Lamb closely these days… very Dark Meat… Whilst cooked well, the Tapas Portion meant one was getting into when the Meat was gone. I was left with a heap of a classic Thick Masala, but again Soup came to mind. The Desi Lamb was clearly distinguishable from the Bhindi Gosht by coming in a different shaped bowl. The Desi had a sliver of Red Capsicum, the Bhindi a couple of small pieces of Okra. Apart from this there was no apparent difference in content. The Masala in the latter was much the same as the Desi. On the positive side, this Masala was well Seasoned and had a considerable amount of Flavour, it was pleasant, simply excessive. Hector, as we know, prefers More Meat and Less Sauce!

Daal Makhani is Soup. A Thick blend of Cream, and today Tomatoes, and usually an array of Lentils. This version featured Black Lentils only. However, having searched for months to find it I could not consider disappointment. The Paratha came into its own. This was a lovely thick Paratha and scooped up the remaining Masala. It was then employed as anticipated to enable the Daal to be enjoyed.  A beautiful Dry, almost Musty Flavour.

It was at this point that the Manager explained the plan to be Authentic. I found nothing different in what had been presented, the Daal Makhani excepted. As far as I am concerned this venue sells Mainstream Curry. One is also left to speculate as to the existence of a Central Ashoka Kitchen? Mother India’s owner  admitted to Hector that their food is prepared in one place and sent out to their various outlets. The Manager also said his Boss was on the premises dining with his Mother. This would be Sanjay Majhu himself. But more importantly his Mother would possibly  be The Mrs. Majhu! It was in Mrs Majhu’s, now the Wee Curry House on Byres Rd., where Hector had the Driest Curry he has ever been served in Glasgow. This was a legendary time, one could not get enough of this Lamb Dish.

The Bill

£30.55. We had been fed, the Meal was pleasant enough.

The Aftermath

The Calling Card was presented and went straight into the pocket of the Waiter. Did it ever see the light of day again. He apologised once more for the delays. The Curry-Heute Calling Card has now been presented in three Harlequin Outlets. As I let Marg through the door she remarked – I don’t think you’ll be coming back here. Indeed true, and I doubt if there will be a fourth Calling Card.

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Priyas Palace – Greenock

Posted on March 25, 2013 by Hector

At some point in the small hours of this morning (Greenwich Meantime) history was made. The Counter on this website passed the One Million mark. I know this does not mean one million people have visited, it is I believe, more a record of the activity.  Nor has Hector been learning Morse Code in the last three years. That there is an ever expanding number of Curryspondents is more than appreciated. Some keep me right, some make recommendations. It was Curryspondent-James from Kilmalcolm who brought Priyas Palace (2 Robertson St, Greenock, PA16 8DB). He assured me I would be served a Dry Methi Curry.

Standing frozen on a Hockey Pitch this afternoon, mummified in a Goalie’s Kit, made Hector’s resolve to mark the occasion of the Millionth Click all the more intense. Whilst Marg was handing out Awards, I would go out and discover if anyone was deserving of one.

A twenty minute drive beyond the end of the M8 saw Hector find the venue without too much difficulty, it was hard to miss. Priyas Palace is a massive building which must been something industrial in the past. From the outside it appeared to be closed. The Buddha halfway up the stairs confirmed this was not a chip shop. Where was I going?

Opening a further door revealed a large room. A group of eight sat in a corner, a few more sat on the far side near the window. I was offered a seat in the central area but within full earshot of the group. I would be dealt with by two waiters. The first, the more mature, handed me the Buffet List and started to go through what was on offer. I asked for the Menu as I was here for a Methi dish in particular. He then described the Lamb Saag Wala as being the same. I put it to him that he was trying to get me to have The Buffet. The Menu was presented. The young waiter brought two Poppadoms and an array of Dips, Chutney and Pickle, a good start. In fact one of the Poppadoms had Cumin Seeds, an even better start. He returned to take my order.

The Lamb Methi Saag looked the most Interesting Dish. I was in the mood for something different from Chapattis. Roti were on the Menu (£1.30), I didn’t see Chapattis. There was a choice of Tandoori Paratha or Tawa Paratha, I asked what the difference was. The latter was Deep Fried I was told, how could this be so?  I know what a Tawa is. No stuffed Paratha was available so I went for the healthy, Deep Fried option.

I had decided to only eat the Cumin Poppadom. The Platter of Accompaniments featured Lime Pickle, just enough to get the palate activated.

I had time to further survey the room. I was sat on the edge of the large central area close to the Buffet Platters. A large hatch ran half the length of the room revealing an Open Kitchen behind. The Chef was always in view. I was amused to see him phone the staff at the Counter at one point.

The Buffet List had been left on the table. Six Starters including Vegetable and Chicken Pakora, Chicken Chat, Seekh Kebab, the usual. The type of things that stop one enjoying a Full Curry afterwards. There were three Lamb Dishes, the aforementioned Saag Wala, a Lamb and Spinach Dish obviously. The Lamb Delhi was described as an Authentic Indian Curry, such a thing exists? The Lamb Hyderabadi featured Carmelised Onion and a hint of Cream. Three Lamb Dishes, better than the Average Buffet.  I am tempted to come back here and try the Buffet as the Lamb Dishes are all interesting.  The Chicken Dishes are the usual Korma, Patia…

Lamb Methi Saag

The Lamb Methi Saag arrived in less time than expected. Given that they had presumably the Spinach Curry by the bucket load, was this just the inevitable tweak? The Curry was piled high, it looked the part. The Thick, Dry Leafy Masala shrouded a good helping of large chunks of Meat. Again, given the fibrous nature of the Meat, one had the thought flash through the mind once more, was this really Lamb? There was plenty of it. James had stated that he had tasted Seven Flavours, this may not have been the Dish he was describing. As with Yadgar on Saturday, where I had basically the same order, the Spinach was not too dominant. The expected Blast of Methi did not come. I did find the occasional Clove whose Flavour always bursts on to the palate.

The Paratha was the perfect size, rarely do I finish one. Indeed, the Oil was to the fore, but maybe it should be regarded as a Guilty Pleasure.

The meal was indeed enjoyable, however, the Wow Factor was not there. Good, but not outstanding.

The Bill

£12.75. The Sparkling Water was £1.70. The Overall Price, acceptable.

The Aftermath

I presented the Calling Card at the Counter to the mature waiter. I asked if I could take a photo of the room. He went way to find out. Meanwhile I took the photo. I showed him the Curry-Heute Website on my Trusty Samsung, I don’t think he was that bothered.

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Yadgar Sparkles!

Posted on March 23, 2013 by Hector

Following on from last Saturday’s Episode of Curry-Heute, Readers will know that Shkoor from Yadgar (148 Calder St, Govanhill, Glasgow, G42 7QP) contacted Hector to state that his Humble Establishment now stocks the Liquid Accompaniment of Choice – Sparkling Water. I ordered a bottle of Sparkling Water midweek with some Curry that might be washed down with it. Neil decided that he would accompany, his first sit-in Yadgar Experience.

The rendezvous was 15.00, we were both early. For once Naveed was not on the premises, Ahmed would take care of us. A Vegetable Rice and Two Chapattis were added to the order. The Sparkling Water was ordered, a moment to savour. Mr Arshad, the Chef, was seated, snacking as Ahmed brought the Complementary pre-meal Nibbles. No Starters were ordered, however, the Spicy Salad, Onion Chutney, Poppadoms and Dips were brought out. Neil does not have the biggest of appetites, and so Nibbling was to the fore.

Shkoor arrived. I congratulated him on the quality of the Sparkling Water. Rumour has it the Curry ain’t too shabby here either. Shkoor was introduced to Neil, the man who discovered Yadgar. His visit is therefore long overdue.

The Kilo of Lamb on-the-bone was brought out to the still heaving table. The Lamb was piled high and covered in the unique Yadgar Five Leaf Masala. Spinach may be the dominant Herb, but this is tempered by the presence of what in the past I worked out to be Methi, Coriander and Curry Leaves. The fifth Leaf was a mystery until today, however the top garnish today was Parsley. Bazinga!

The Vegetable Rice was shared. Ahmed brought a second Chapatti and placed on top of the first. Here we go. A Hector sized portion was scooped on to the Rice. Neil took a more modest portion. It is some time since I ordered the Vegetable Rice which never disappoints. Rice and Chapatti can be filling, the objective was to ensure that maximum enjoyment of the Curry could be achieved. There was no doubting the quality of the Lamb, cooked to perfection. The Green Chilli count was significant, this dish had a real Kick. As anticipated, the Spinach was not over dominant, the Herb Balance was perfection, no other establishment known to Hector serves Palak Gosht like this.

Neil was certainly impressed by his first full Yadgar Experience. The Mountain of Curry was more than he could ever manage. When Mr Arshad came out to check on us, the Doggy Bag was mentioned. Too good to let go to waste. In then end Neil left with a very healthy sized portion which he can finish at leisure.

The Bill

£30.00. This appears to be a Flat Fee. Great Food, Great Value. One suspects the Sparkling Water may have been Complementary too.

The Aftermath

The Ally Arms has not been visited for some time. The Fridge was not well stocked, but a new, second Fridge, is due to arrive next week. Here’s hoping.

Posted in Yadgar Kebab House | 3 Comments

The Akash, For Auld Lang Syne

Posted on March 20, 2013 by Hector

A Midweek Curry, Decadence.  A Midweek Curry with Marg, a Treat.

As announced in a well known Social Media Platform, I had decided to go Traditional this evening.  The Akash (45 Sinclair St, Helensburgh, G84 8TG) as has been reported a few times now, is under new ownership.  This evening I would order the combination of Starter and Main Course I have literally eaten hundreds of times at The Akash.  I must have liked it.  Chicken Chat followed by Lamb Rogan Josh.

Marg has always raved about the Pakora here and so this was her chosen Starter.  Rather amusingly she opted for Lamb Karahi as her Main Dish, my stalwart of recent times.  We would share a Garlic and Coriander Nan (not specifically mentioned on the Menu) and a Mushroom Rice.  We declined Poppadoms et al.

The Waiter this evening was not the usual Chap, Mein Host certainly recognised me on entry.  This was Marg’s first visit to the New-co.  She told the Waiter how attractive the New Menu is.  The photo of the Taj Mahal on the Cover prompted the story of how his family originated in Agra but moved after The Separation.  The mentioning of this piece of history is a rarity.

Behold the Capsicum #1

The Portion of Vegetable Pakora was enough to share in itself.  I cringe at Venues where they present four or five pieces.  Marg considered the pieces to be bigger than The Akash norm, but still Fresh and Crispy.  The Chicken Chat is unfortunately not the same Unique Interpretation as has been served here for the past thirty years.  This version was large Chicken Tikka pieces accompanied by large pieces of the Dreaded Green Vegetable. There was a covering of something Red which was different from the usual Yoghurt based Dip.  The Chicken was neither Hot or Cold, Lukewarm.  The worst of Both Worlds.  There was a hint of Flavour from the Chicken but it could have been better Fired.  I ate all the Capsicum!  My objection is when Capsicum is included  with Meat and Masala, this felt like the exception that proves the rule, whatever that means.

Behold the Capsicum #2

Both of the Main Courses at least had a Masala consistency which was Thicker and Drier than as served in the majority of Venues.  Given the Lancaster Experiences last Weekend, this was on the Dry end of The Spectrum.

The Rogan Josh

Accompanying large Pieces of Onion was the Signature Tomato which had been included at the end of Cooking, do Chefs still use Food Dye to give an overall Redness? The quantity of Meat in the Rogan Josh was most impressive.  Each piece was much larger than the norm and when I counteded double figures I had to be impressed.  This was indeed a Generous Portion.  But was it Lamb?  The Meat was not the Texture I associate with Lamb, too Fibrous.  If one defines Curry as Meat served in a Spicy Sauce then this is where the whole Meal disappointed.  There was no Kick whatsoever,  I had asked for Stronger than Medium.  There was very little Flavour, at times, none from the Melange.  That the Taste of each slice of Mushroom stood out when combined with the Rice says it all.  There was pile of Chunky Capsicum left on the bottom of the Aluminium Karahi.  A disappointment overall.

The Lamb Karahi

Marg rarely finishes her Main Course.  Having polished off the Pakora she was defeated before she began.  This gave Hector the opperchancity to fully sample her Karahi.  Again the Portion was Significant, the Meat again was questionable.  It is possible to eat a Lamb Curry and be overwhelmed by the Flavour of Lamb/Mutton, not tonight.  The Masala was a more realistic Brown in colour.  This Dish had a lot more Substance than the Rogan Josh.  Marg found it quite Spicy, it was definitely more powerful than my Dish, yet she had asked for Medium.  This was Curry, by no means outstanding, but it was Curry.

The Daal

The Waiter brought an extra Side Dish for Hector – Daal.  Last time it was Chickpeas and Chicken.  The Daal was much more seriously Spiced than the Mains.  This meant I was able to keep the Rice for the Curry and used the Nan to Dip in the Lentils.  This combination gave up more Flavour than the Rogan Josh by far.  The Fresh Coriander on the Nan coupled with the Spicy Daal was a Sheer delight.  The Nan itself was Huge!  There is no need to order more than one Nan if they keep this up, impossible to finish even when sharing.  I ate the Doughy end, Marg the Crispy – Harmony.  When the Waiter came across to give the customary check I made a special thanks for the Daal.  I also told him I have been searching for Daal Makhani (he then pronounced it better than me – Mak-knee) all over the West of Scotland.  Maybe some body will take the hint?

The sheer quantity of food set before us was impressive. The extra Portion did take us to excess.  However, it is touches such as this which win customers and keep them regular, no pun intended.  Next time I might try a Vegetable Curry – what?  Unless I can find a Fish Dish.

The Bill

£36.95.  We did have two Starters, and there was the Bonus Daal.  I do not know what the two Soft Drinks were charged at.

The Aftermath

Hector was a Curry Consultant this evening.  Where should I take my Son for his first Curry?  The answer was The Village.  Where is the Best Curry around these parts?  The answer was Yadgar, it will be interesting to see if they go.  In the past twenty four hours I have also advised a group of Doctors on a Bachelor Party to book the Downstairs at The Punjabi Charing Cross.

This is really what this Website is all about.

Posted in [Akash (New-co)] | Comments Off on The Akash, For Auld Lang Syne

Mognies, Mognies, Mognies

Posted on March 16, 2013 by Hector

Well, I asked for a Dry Curry

It was a long day. The Hawkshead Beer Festival at Staveley, where else, was finally visited. Why had it taken me so long to experience this? A return is already planned. The consequence is that Hector will be reporting on the Lancaster Curry Scene for the foreseeable.

Shkoor from Yadgar  texted me whilst I was at Staveley to inform me that Sparkling Water is now available at his outstanding Glasgow Curry Outlet.  What prompted that? I must visit next Friday to celebrate, I might even have a Curry too.

The Aftermath of Staveley did involve a change of trains at Oxenholme, and a Farewell to the Duke and Tyndall. Dr. Stan was still in tow, or was he leading me? The Tap House in Lancaster is where we caught up with what was left of The Staveley Eleven. Hector was abandoned, time to go for Food. (Yvonne had a Chinese, but has made no further comment.)

Mognies (66 Penny Street, Lancaster, LA1 1XF) was the intended Venue this evening, I did not think a more formal establishment would be appropriate. Having passed it last night I knew what I was in for. The sides of this essentially Takeaway had seats down both walls. Two Chaps were finishing as I entered, I became The Lone Diner once again.

The Calling Card

Tonight I decided to announce my arrival from the start. The Calling Card was presented as I paid the modest sum of £8.35 for a Lamb Curry, Rice and a Chapatti. I did asked for Dry Curry. The Server indicated the Chef behind him, he would do what could be done.

The wait could have been hours or minutes, I amused myself taking artistic photos of The Menu. I never read it, just photographed it. Fun with Menus.

The Bits came

The Polystyrene Plate was a hoot, the Chapatti in its bag took me back to the much celebrated Shahed’s in my own city. The Rice and The Curry et al were in the now customary Takeaway Plastic Containers. Some still use Aluminium Foil with Cardboard Lids? One Spoon and no Napkins., not one. Crazy. I had Rice so not so much a problem.

The Rice Portion was more than adequate. I poured what was very much the standard Curry Soup over the top. It looked like a standard Curry, Dry was certainly not an appropriate adjective.

It maybe does me good to go back in time and enjoy what is served as Mainstream Curry. This is possibly what The Majority expect? At £8.35 I had no complaints.

The Chapatti

This deserves its own paragraph. The Chapatti had – The Wow! – factor. Thick, Fleshy, Magnificent. Yet This Curry needed the Rice. This Chapatti was different from the norm, it had the character of a Middle Eastern Pitta.

Mein Host was out to check on my progress. The Server had already been given the thumbs up. I had already commented on the quality of The Chapatti. The Curry itself was as last night, Seriously Spiced. I was not anticipating too much in Flavour terms yet I was getting a good, Old Fashioned Curry Flavour. You Like it? I was asked. We shall talk when I have finished The Chappatti – was my reply.

No Methi or Coriander was harmed in the creation of this Curry, yet I had to admit I was thoroughly enjoying it. The Seasoning was perhaps what kept the interest. The Lamb was also on the Chewy side, but not so as to spoil the moment.

Mein Host, the Chef, was back. I had to make Positive Noises. I could have found a Restaurant and paid twice as much for half the pleasure.

The Bill

£8.35. Were you not paying attention?

The Aftermath

Mein Host was happy to let me take Photos of the Kitchen and of himself. Then his Colleague wanted in too. A very warm welcome, much appreciated. I was looked after very well, the Curry was Fine. I suspect I shall be back in July after the next Staveley Festival.

Posted in Mognies | Comments Off on Mognies, Mognies, Mognies

Second Ever Lancaster Curry, Bombay Balti

Posted on March 15, 2013 by Hector

Approximately ten years ago I has my first Lancaster Curry. The Venue was as close as thirty metres to the Canal, or possibly the River Lune. The Bridge had Black Riveted sections on the sides…it has gone.  Kirstie, a resident of nearby Morcambe, would tell me later that it may have been Nawaabs.  That Curry was a Son of Bradford. For that reason I looked forward for the Opperchancity to return to Lancaster.

Last year I had a day here without Curry. Nowhere was open within my time parameters. I phoned a few. Tonight would be different. However, Hector was still wondering why it took until after 20.00 to find a random Curry House. Google Maps, regular readers know what is coming, had suggested Imran’s which was near The Travelodge. Alas it was not revealing itself. This information out of date.  I moseyed up towards King St. and beyond. The Bombay Balti (16 China St., Lancaster, LA1 1EX) was the first Curry House to be both Open and Reveal itself in Lancaster in Ten Years, a long wait

There was the Reception Area I associate with Venues who want to make profit from Drinks. I had deliberately ignored all tacit invites to join the Family of Jonathan this evening. A solo Diner can go in quick, eat, and get out. They were a day at a Beer Festival ahead of me. Morgen Vielleicht.

I was given a Table on the extreme right of the premises, a partition to my left, a table of four to my right. Out of sight, The Naughty Corner.

The Menu was Bright Red, quite Stunning. I ordered the Sparkling Water (£2.45 for a small bottle.??). Perhaps in terms of Labour Costs it may have justified the cost. Water, with gas, is served free in many Venues.

The Menu

OK, I was not expecting much so when I spotted the Karahi I was nearly tempted. The Chef’s Specials, an always amusing term, a Final Tweak to something that has come out of the same Curry Pot as every other dish. Does Chef cook them himself, come out and take a bow? (Sorry, Glasgow reminiscences again.) The Achari caught my eye and then Zak-Jool, an Achari with Fermented Chillies? It might be HOT, I can handle it, whatever. Two Chapattis (£1.00) would turn out to be a mistake. A Waitress Buzzed about and monitored my progress. She could not take the order.

Ordering deliberately Spicy Curry takes one back to one’s youth. It also is my fall back when nothing on the Menu really takes my fancy. What came was the classic Curry Soup, and so I ate the entire Dish with the provided Spoon! The Chapattis were Dipped in the traditional manner and revealed virtually no Flavour. The Masala was not too thin but there was an awful lot of it. Rice would have been the better Accompaniment. Strange how the much thinner Shorba Masala requires Chapattis but this consistency needs Rice. The Lamb was cut small, then I realised there was very little Meat in the Dish. Suddenly The Village portions felt generous.

As I ate on the Sweat was forming on the Pate, this was seriously Spicy. Flavours eventually began to emerge, there was a hint of Pickle, I started to enjoy the Curry. It was far from what I would normally expect to eat, but not too far from my normal order. Their interpretation of Curry is not necessarily Mine. It was Curry, I like Curry.

The Bill

 £12.45. The small Bottle of Sparkling Water was £2.45, ouch.

 The Aftermath

I had presented myself at the counter to pay The Bill so as to increase my chances of meeting whoever was running the show. The Calling Card was presented and well received. I had to tell them, because they asked, that their Curry was – OK, nothing Special. Another Chap asked for a Calling Card too, he claimed to have cooked my Dish. I described my Amateur Status, and when I mentioned Curry-Heute was approaching One Million Hits they took notice. Pleasant people, serving OK Food.

The Hector Curry-Hound desired Curry, he was fed…. time for a Bier…

Posted in Bombay Balti | 1 Comment

Fake Curry, False Reporting

Posted on March 14, 2013 by Hector

Thanks to Curryspondents, Doug (welcome) and Neil, I was made well aware last weekend of the reporting of Fake Curry.

The Sunday Mail had the headline that of the Curry served in Scotland, 1 in 3 are (sic) fake. They quoted a secret report done by food watchdogs who had found 46 instances of Beef impersonating the twice as expensive Lamb in 129 restaurants tested. OK, that may well work out around the one in three mark, but come on… we Chaps know that the Ladies tend towards Chicken, and then there are those who miss out on Meat altogether. One in three is fake? – No chance!

STV covered the story in their news bulletins too, but neither branch of the Media would name names. Given how public the Horse-meat Scandal (Has anyone ever had Horse Curry?) has been and all the Supermarkets and Brands named, how is that not a single purveyor of Fake Curry was named?

Hector has had his suspicions for some time that this was going on. I have questioned what I was eating in this Blog a few times, the Meat being far too Fibrous for Lamb and having a Columnar Structure more associated with Beef. Somewhere in the Curry-Heute Curry Reviews are places I shall name, as soon as I find them.

This may mean going back and reading every report in order… a Search revealed only one possible Scottish Candidates,  in Helensburgh, a Favourite Venue which  has since changed hands.  I may have written more…

Posted in Odds and Sods | 1 Comment