Glasgow – Rishi’s Indian Aroma – The Aberdeen Curry Chain

Posted on May 10, 2013 by Hector

T’is the Eve of The Great Day, what better way to raise the level of Anticipation by reporting on a second new Curry Venue on Curry-Heute? With Dr. Stan at the Bedford-Bamberg Bier Festival, and no ‘Plane available at a sensible time to Luton, Hector was once again a candidate for the Lone Diner. This evening’s venue is Rishi’s Indian Aroma (61 Bath St., Glasgow, G2 2DG). A runner up in a category at last year’s Curry Awards this place is long overdue a visit. I tend to write often about places being long overdue a visit. That reminds me, there has been no contact from a certain Promotional Company this year, we have no mutual needs this year it appears.

From the exterior Rishi’s looks more Café than Restaurant. It is a basement location so hard to tell. On entering I was greeted immediately and taken to the right in the window area and shown a small corner table. I could have got into the squeeze but I would have been a metre from an adjacent couple. I communicated facially that this was not a good location. The Waiter then offered me an small table in the middle of the various couples dining. He then had a brainwave and took me down a few stairs to the main Dining Room. This was large and spacious. I was given another small table in the middle of the room. There were dozens of empty tables, why do they do this?

The Waiter gave me a moment then came over to take my order. A Menu would be useful – I suggested. He brought a Menu then stood, pad in hand, ready to take the order. Now the Menu had to be considered, carefully. There were many Indian Dishes not available in Glasgow’s Northern Indian/Pakistani Restaurants. Suddenly the Waiter realised he had to give me more time. That was the last I saw of him.

Hector spotted Chettinadu, a Firm Favourite when served at The Indian Mango (München). Available in both Lamb and Fish I was put off by the Coconut, but it did claim to be Spicy. Next time. The Lamb Kadai looked as close to a Punjabi Dish as I could see, it claimed to have Herbs, a plus. No Chapattis were evident and the Breads were extortionate, Aberdeen Prices! There was a couple of Exotic Rice Dishes, each over £4.00. One was unpronounceable and sadly I could not record it accurately and so Shilababa (sic) is how it shall be referred to until a Curryspondent tells me correctly.

A new waiter appeared. I asked for the Kadai without, he said he would check with The Chef that the Capsicum could be withheld. Always an amusing moment, as if it was a Key Ingredient. I enquired about the Bababobby (sic) and was firmly told that this was a Dish in its own right and would not do well accompanying a Curry. I was directed to the Main Rice section on the Menu. I hadn’t got there, the Menu was full of distracting names of Indian Puffy Dishes that have little interest to The Curry Hound. The Mushroom Rice was also over £4.00, £4.29, wtf? I was led down this path blindly and order Mushroom Rice. With hindsight I should have ordered the Babableba (sic), it might have justified the cost.

Whilst waiting for the Curry to arrive I had time to reflect on Glasgow’ City Centre’s ever changing appearance. A Landmark Building is being demolished, the Odeon, Renfield St. As well as being one of Glasgow’s oldest cinemas, it also doubled as a live venue before it was converted to three screens in the 1970s. Famously the only ever Glasgow Performance by Beatles Band (1963/64) was at this venue. One assumes the Façade shall remain?

The Good Waiter brought the Food. The Kadai was served in the smaller of the Karahi pots that are prevalent in Glasgow, and are no doubt standard in say, London. The Rice was served in a Glasgow sized metal dish. Indeed the Rice looked Mountainous in comparison to the Curry, easily enough for two. The Mushrooms were Fresh and significant in their presence. I did not feel conned by the expensive Rice any longer, just puzzled as to why they would serve Rice in this manner at this price. In Bradford, Rice comes included.

The Kadai had large Lumps of Lamb shrouded in Large Slices of Onion. Am I not glad I managed to avoid the Mushy Green Vegetable? The quantity of Meat was sufficient, the Lamb slightly on the Chewy side but still very palatable. The Masala was Thin and definitely Mainstream. The Seasoning was sufficient and the Kick was tremendous. Slices of the Large Green Chillies had been added at the end. A couple of the Dark Red Chillies I associate with South Indian Cooking were cooked in the mix. Occasional Aromatic Flavours swept through, Cardamom. The task of eating was frustrated by the Cutlery. The Fork was easily the most useless Eating Weapon I have ever tried to use. Far too small. Fine if this was Nouvelle Cuisine, not for Wolfing down Curry.

Still, overall this was a worthy Curry, a worthwhile experience.

The Bill

£13.28. £8.99 and £4.29. No Sparkling Water, I felt I was paying out enough.

The Aftermath

The Calling Card was presented and no remark made. I will certainly try this venue again, Fish Chettinadu…

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A word from Ahmed in Islamabad…

Posted on May 8, 2013 by Hector

Shkoor is here …. so we got together for a Karahi in Faisalabad, a three and a half hour drive from Islamabad.

The venue was “Pehelwan Karahi at Chowk Ghanta Ghar (The Wrestler’s Karahi at the Clock Tower). As is always the case at such places the “menu” is displayed “upfront” and customers can choose their favorite cuts. The three of us ordered two kilos of chops and thigh meat accompanied by tandoori roti, a green salad and raita.

Preparation time was one hour. They use a fair bit of onions with tomatoes in the sauce with a choice of red chili powder, green chilies or black pepper.

Half an hour later an empty karahi and a pile of bones.

Saturday is election day in Pakistan. Another Karahi planned for Monday.

Posted in Odds and Sods | 3 Comments

The Bombay Grill (Boulevard Hotel) – Clydebank

Posted on May 8, 2013 by Hector

The Bombay Grill at The Boulevard Hotel (1710 Great Western Rd., Clydebank, G81 2XT) lies very close to Hector’s House. This venue has been visited at best sporadically over the last twenty years, and certainly not in the last five. Hector associates the Bombay Grill with the Buffet available every evening. When Marg and I insisted on eating a la carte on our last visit we received a strange look. The Curry has been generally fine, so why the renewed interest? In a local Freebie Publication there was a full page advert on Page 2. Any further in and I would have missed it. It stated – We are the first place in Clydebank to serve traditional home cooked style meals. In Hector Language this means – Desi.

Arriving at 18.00 I walked in through the Bar area of the Boulevard Hotel to the door at the far right. Here lies the somewhat secreted entrance to the Restaurant. Traditional Cuisine is served in the Bar. There was nobody there, fortunately a Waiter appeared and showed me to a seat beyond the Buffet. I asked immediately about – Desi – and was assured this was available. The Menu was brought but it was identical to that which I had perused online. No sign of anything beyond the standard. Karahi Bhoona would be the choice. I asked again and was told that that they have Two Sauces, one normal and one Desi. They could cook whatever I wished Desi Style. Two Chapattis (95p) would accompany along with the customary Sparkling Water.

There was time to reacquaint myself with my surroundings. The room must sit over one hundred people. It is decidedly spacious. A Bar lies at one end of the room the Buffet at the other. There are no windows but mirrors do run the length of the far wall where I was sat.

Incoming email was checked, Ahmed my Curryspondent in Islamabad had sent in a description of he and Shkoor’s latest Curry Adventure. See the accompanying Blog report.

A different Chap turned up with a Sizzling Karahi and Chapattis. The Curry was piled high – That looks a Decent Portion – was my immediate remark. I was warned not to touch anything hot which was the Karahi and the Plate. A Large solitary Green Chilli (halved) topped the Dish. Here we go…

The Curry had to be decanted in part, normally I would eat straight from the Karahi but such was the volume of food, some had to be moved. The Masala was thick with Shredded Onion, some cooked Fresh Tomato would reveal itself shortly. I had of course asked for the Dish to be served without the Dreaded Green Mushy Vegetable which the Menu had listed as being an ingredient.  There was a definite Sweetness due to the sheer volume of Onion. At first I thought the Dish needed more seasoning but soon changed my mind. The Tender Lamb was plentiful, other Venues take note. The Chapattis were Brown-ish, Large and Delightfully Thick. No way could two be polished off. A Third of one was leftover. Proper Chapattis.

This was nothing like any Curry served in Clydebank. Clydebank Curry tends to be from the same pot regardless of venue. This Bhoona was very similar Flavour-wise  to that served in Glasgow’s Asmaan, but this was Plentiful.

The Best Curry to be served to Hector in Clydebank – was a thought that passed through my mind.

The Serving Waiter returned to remove the Debris. That was a large portion – I remarked. You’ve done well with that– he retorted.

Approaching the Bar to pay the original Waiter did the sums.

The Bill

£12.45. The Curry was around £9.00 I reckoned, the Chapattis just under £2.00, so the Sparkling Water must have been on the expensive side. I noticed taped to the bar a piece of paper stating that Soft Drinks (Soda Water included) are £2.80 a pint. Don’t even think about adding Fresh orange. So, good value Curry, Tap Water is advised. Unless one is out – to Dine.

The Aftermath

The Calling Card was left and the Website shown. I mentioned that I might come back and try an Achari Dish next time and was assured it could be served Desi-style. As I left the Serving Waiter was taking Food through to the Main Bar. So one can eat in daylight.

Now to Post the tale of a very different Karahi.

Update

The Boulevard Hotel is being turned into… something else … no more Curry.

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Glasgow – The Alishan Tandoori – A Place to Dine

Posted on May 4, 2013 by Hector

Somehow two years have lapsed since my last visit to The Alishan Tandoori (250 Battlefield Road, Glasgow, G42 9HU). Hector does not find himself this far South so often these days and so it was a definite thumbs up when Alan suggested that we re-visit. Walking in to an empty Restaurant just before 17.30 I was recognised by one of the three stalwarts who have ever-present since my first visit in the 1990s. A table was arranged for 18.30, I knew by then they would be full. With possibly fewer than a dozen tables, this venue is compact, space is at a premium yet the dining experience is always first rate.

Alan and Tracy made the Clockwork rendezvous, Marg arrived in time to decant back to the restaurant, for once she had not been triumphant at Hockey.

Alan was also recognised when we entered, for him it has been may years since his last visit. Drinks were ordered, as there was no Draught Cider Alan had to settle for a 330ml bottle at £3+. With Bier on the agenda for afterwards, Hector stuck to the usual, however at £2.80 for a pint of Soda Water, well, ouch!

The Alishan Menu is a lengthy tome. I had done my research online during the week. Instead of my normal (here) Pholan Devi the Special Bhoona Methi Gosht looked like the basis for comparison with my regular places. Alan bought into this too and upped the ante with extra Green Chillies (extra 50p). As Dry as you can make it – was my contribution.

Marg tried to work out the difference between a Balti and a Karahi. Birmingham – was our best answer. Lamb Balti then. Tracy ordered a mouthful – Special Karahi Chicken Tikka.

Starters had also been discussed and agreed upon, each couple to share. Marg and I went for the straight forward Chicken Chat, the opposition – Chilli, Garlic, Chicken and Mushroom Puri.

Chapattis at £1.80 did not look as good value as a Vegetable Paratha. We ordered one of each. Alan asked for a Garlic and Coriander Nan. There was a pause in the note-taking to verify that this was not two separate Nans. Nobody orders a Nan for one at the Alishan. No Rice.

I would love to see the kitchen at The Alishan. Being a Mainstream restaurant they must operate the classic Two Pot System. To observe the tweaks to make the plethora of variations would be interesting.

The Starters arrived in good time. The Chicken Chat was four Chicken Wings accompanied by Fresh Onion and Spiced Onion. It kept Marg and I amused whilst we observed Alan and Tracy demolish their Puri. A Curry in a Pancake – was how they described it. I feel we missed out.

Marg retained her fork after the Starter. She was offered a clean one but had become attached to this one. Alan was permitted another bottle of Cider.

The elaborate Tikka and the Balti arrived first. The Karahi was served in an iron karahi, the Balti in a standard dish. This was slightly disappointing, The Bucket was anticipated. And then there were the days of the Clay Pot for the Pholan Devi…

The Methi Gosht were also served in the standard dishes. There was now the task of setting out the Breads. The Nan was folded, else it would have occupied half of the table. The Chapatti was quartered leaving the Paratha to look resplendent. Peas were the stuffing in the Paratha rather than the usual Potato. This was an excellent accompaniment.

The Masala in the Bhoona Methi Gosht was suitably Dark and Thick. There was a visible Herb Content but the Methi Blast did not happen, no – Wow. Alan kept using the Salt cellar, indeed, the Dish needed much more Seasoning. The Lamb was sufficient in quantity and as Tender as one could hope. We reached the same verdict. – it was very much a Mainstream Curry.

Marg had much more success with her Lamb Balti. Citrus, Tangy – were her words. I observed a Masala of similar Texture to the Bhoona but clearly no Herbs added. It looked the part, pity no Bucket. As ever, there was some left for me to sample but the Hector was full! Tracy was mostly positive about the Special Karahi Chicken Tikka – Tasty, but needed more Chillies. And this was after the extra Green Chillies (extra 50p) had been added. Chicken Tikka Vindaloo may be what The Lady needs?

There was a call for two Doggy Bags, Hector the Curry Hound would be able to sample Marg’s Balti later. Mein Host advised Marg that she would receive it in a foil tray, she would have to relinquish the serving dish… and her Fork.

When Ladies are Present

There was Ice-Cream. The Alishan serves the Frozen Desserts that are mass produced. Tracy wanted Toby to complete her collection. Marg had Turkish Delight Ice-Cream, no comment. Then there was Coffee, for three. My Soda Water was now finished, time for The Bill.

The Bill

£82.60. For a Fully Licensed Restaurant and Drinks on The Bill, Starters and the excellent service, there can be no complaints about this. There is no charge for watching the Goldfish.

The Aftermath

Mein Host said goodnight to me by name. We’ll see if he remembers next time. I was not asked about the ritual photography as on my last visit, so maybe he will.

The Alishan remains a worthy venue. If I can squeeze in a couple of more visits it may well have to put on the list of Hector’s Recommended Curry Houses. I have been eating here for decades and always have a good experience.

Postscript

Lamb Balti for Breakfast

Hector was able to sample four pieces of Lamb in the Thick Masala, Absolutely Beautiful! I don’t know if the overnight marinade made a difference. The Masala had a Tomato undertone in addition to the Tang described by Marg. This was Classic Curry.

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The Khyber, One Year On…

Posted on April 30, 2013 by Hector

Unbelievably it is one year to the day since Hector’s last visit to The Khyber Restaurant (221 St Andrews Road, Glasgow, G41 1PD). Another year, another Birthday. This evening Marg and Hector were joined by Howard who arrived simultaneously, Tracey, Steve, Juliet and finally Dr. Stan who went to the wrong Restaurant. Dr. Stan was standing outside the New Karahi Palace realising that it was not The Khyber, can we have the real Dr. Stan back please? The Aliens must have finished with him by now.

Amjad has gone off to study we were told by the Owner’s Brother who was standing in after a late staff call off. The welcome was warm, we were not the only diners, a good dozen folk were fed as well as ourselves. One knows that a visit to The Khyber will not be a quick one, the food is cooked with due care, it is not a case of spooning out of The Big Pot and tweaking.

Starters had to be ordered, the Boti Kebab should be legendary by now. Marinated Lamb served the only way Tikka-style Lamb should be. Howard followed the lead as did Marg. Dr. Stan and Tracey went Seekh whilst Steve and Juliet decided a share of the Special (Mixed) Kebab would suffice.

For the Mains, the Men all went for The Khyber Special Karahi, in effect a Half Kilo of Lamb Stew on-the-bone but with one hell of a Taste Experience. Marg opted for the Chicken equivalent whilst Tracey had the alternative Grand Dish, the Dum Pukh. Juliet did not have The Special, instead Chicken Peshwari Karahi was her choice. Various Roti (£1.20), Nan Breads and three Boiled Rice would be sufficient accompaniment. Now for the wait.  Juliet and Tracey amused themselves with a Cup of Afghani Green Tea.  Not as good as the Kashmiri Tea served at Yadgar –  was Tracey’s verdict. At least it wasn’t Pink.

Mein Host was kept busy seeing to the other groups and answering the phone. Various Takeaways were dispatched. Plates appeared, cutlery appeared and finally two plates of Salad and Raita. Food soon.

The Starters came a good hour after our arrival. One has to be patient. The Boti Kebab consists of eight, yes eight, Bite-Sized pieces of Beautifully Dark Marinated Lamb. This is Seriously Dry food yet when one starts, well, how could one have  resisted? The Lamb was chewy, not suitable for a Curry in my book, though others can have it their way. It is the intensity of the Spicy Kick that makes this. If one goes to the Khyber, have this, even if it is to share. And 8 pieces? More than many places sell in a Main Course. Think of the Pretentious Outlets that give three/four pieces of Chicken Tikka as a Starter, and charge more.

The Seekh Kebab appeared to be standard, and the Special Kebab had Boti, Chicken and Seekh. An extra Seekh Kebab somehow was brought, it was eaten and it was not charged.

I managed to negotiate a gap between The Starters and The Mains. It would have been horrendous had it all come without a time to let The Starters go down. We had come to dine, not just to eat. There was also time to appreciate the Sheldon Mug.

Mein Host brought the large karahi three at a time from the kitchen. He looked rightly proud, most of us knew what was coming. Hector’s Special Lamb Karahi was passed along. Marg was shocked to discover she has been given a Half-Kilo of the Chicken version.

A Half-Kilo?

That is what they serve here, Dear, you know that…

Nobody else was put off by the mass of food. Tracey’s Dum Pukh had a decidedly green hue. It was Lamb Chops, but not the skinny ones normally served in other establishments, these were well Chunky and numbered five. I had heard Mein Host explain to two new arrivals that the difference between the Karahi and the Dum Pukh was the latter was cooked without Oil. The evidence manifested itself, the Karahi dishes had a layer of Golden Oil collecting on the base, the Dum Pukh not. Tracey raved about the first bite of Carrot, the Flavours burst through – this was not just cooked, this has been cooking for hours – she concluded. She and Howard swopped a few bits, however, Howard was was too busy to comment.

Marg knew she was beaten before she started, even when she stopped, she started again. A Boti Kebab followed by the Half-Kilo. She ate on and loved it. Juliet was tucking into the Peshwari Chicken, Onion may have featured in this Dish, again from my listening in. If so, the only Dish to do so.

Various Nan of a decent size and Roti were set before us. No Chapattis were available but the Roti were like Big Chapattis, no sign of crispiness. We had ordered four, two came, followed by a third when we realised Howard and Tracey had none. It was never touched. Three portions of Basmati Rice were ordered, more than enough for the six who were sharing.

The Chaps tucked in to the Special Lamb Karahi, no comments necessary, we knew. The Dish as written seven times before looks more like Stew than Curry. The ingredients are a big departure from the Punjabi norm. It is easier to recite what is not in it, the magic is how such diversity of Flavour is achieved. When one begins the Tender Lamb, on-the-bone, makes one concentrate. Not much in the way of Flavour emerges at first, then it makes one sit up. It’s Curry, Jim, but…

Nowhere else serves anything like this. The Bone content is significant and so completing the Dish is within the capabilities of the normal Hungry Chap. Some Mushy Vegetable or three was in there too, then there were the Large Green Chillies – Gosh! Howard, Steve and Dr. Stan concur, a Feast.

If The Khyber was located two blocks further North or South it would be much more accessible. It remains a treat for the population of Pollokshields, and Hector on his Birthday!

The Bill

£123.90. The basis of this was seven dishes ranging from £12.00 to £14.00. The Drinks Bill was huge, 65p, or thereabouts, for one can of Rubicon Mango.

The Aftermath

I showed Mein Host a photo of Hector and Amjad on my visit last year, he insisted on the tradition being maintained.

Meanwhile at the Edward G. Wylie a cask of Hawkshead NZPA was awaiting our arrival. The Friends of Hector had been warming up with 5 Hops and the party was in full swing when we arrived just after 21.00. A safe time to arrive for a Midweek-Bier.

Postscript

Three Days Later

The leftovers of the Special Chicken Karahi were reheated. Not since a former West African Resident Chef cooked Chicken have I tasted anything like this. The normal Chicken Curry is to me simply Chicken with a Sauce poured over. One could see that the Chicken had been cooked in the Masala, the Taste was Stunning!

Sadly…

This was the last visit… Location, Location, Location…

Good News!

In the summer of 2016, this venue re-opened as – The Khyber Pass Restaurant, again selling Afghan Cuisine.

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Serious Curry at The New Karahi Palace

Posted on April 27, 2013 by Hector

Four weeks after the last visit to The New Karahi Palace (51-53 Nelson Street, Glasgow, G5 8DZ) it was time to forgive them for serving Hector a less than Wonderful Curry. Shahed beamed as I walked in, Rasheed the Chef gave his customary modest acknowledgement. I told Shahed straight away that my last Curry had not impressed, tonight I needed something much better. We agreed upon Lamb Karahi served as Dry as they could.

It is after 21.00 and it is still daylight outside. I closed the door which had been wedged open, it may be the end of April however the temperature has not risen. It still feels like winter. A new Waiter was dealing with the upstairs, though I don’t think there was much activity in the Restaurant proper.

Shahed placed the customary Salad and Raita on the table. This would keep me amused, the Trusty Samsung was running dry very quickly, the back-up charger did nothing, bin it. Rasheed was working his magic, I was presented with a Karahi containing Lamb Chops and Boneless Lamb. Copious Fresh Ginger strips and Fresh Green Chillies covered the Dark, Dry Masala. This looked wonderful, would it have – The Taste?

The Kick was immense, this Curry was not for the faint of heart. Hector was hungry and the first of two Chapattis was skilfully used to cradle the Meat. Standards and Expectations are high. This was a Curry way better than that served in a Mainstream Restaurant but perhaps still did not have the – Wow – that this venue normally achieves. I should have asked for extra Fresh Methi. Served anywhere else and I would be writing a rave revue.

The Pleasure Rating was high, but….

The Bill

£8.70. Bradford Prices!

The Aftermath

The Laurieston was able to provide a charger, service. Marg was summoned, Jonathan arrived, Dr. Stan did not. Now where had we been that had us out this late on a Saturday?

 

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Glasgow – Sri Lankan Curry Night – Alba Asia Network

Posted on April 26, 2013 by Hector

Eating Curry for Cherritty, what finer way to spend a Friday evening?

Long standing friends Graham and Maureen were once again part of the organising group behind this Charity Event raising funds for the Street Children of the Indian Subcontinent. Eleanor and Steve took little persuasion to return having enjoyed the event last year. Steve, Marg and Hector were amongst the first to arrive at The Cathcart Bowling Club. Eleanor was along soon afterwards. Hector was the only non-driver, so no Sparkling Water tonight!

Being creatures of habit, we chose the same table as last year. Michael would arrive with Graham some time later, however, the highlight of the evening would be the rendezvous with a Curryspondent. Archie is a regular reader and commentator on this Blog. I welcome also his Environmentally Friendly Colleagues who I am told are led to this site every Monday morning. Having never met Archie, I put it to him that he would recognise Hector, he did. In fact Marg was outside on the phone and he spotted her on entry. No problem. Archie was in the company of his Dear Lady, Maureen, a night eating and talking about Curry – Heaven. Archie is a regular at Yadgar, The Village, Café Salma and the Punjabi Charing Cross. He has yet to visit The Khyber, I bet he does very soon! We both seek the same thing, Curry with genuine Flavour and not Soup. Whilst we both frequent our favourite places often, we also realise the need to keep searching for new Curry Experiences even though there is the inevitable realisation that many of the established Mainstream Venues tend to disappoint.

Archie arrived bearing a Gift – Alamgeer Curry Masala – which he picked up in a Grocer in Albert Drive.  I am assured this has the Wow Factor!  Now is this not what hosting this Blog for three years is all about?

Four of us were served the Starters as we sat down. More would come as the others joined us. Spiced Onion and Poppadoms, Vegetable Pakora and Spring Rolls were in plentiful supply. Last year we were somewhat tentative in asking for more as we did not know the score. This time we knew there would be loads available. We also knew there would be a sizeable gap in the serving of the Starters and the Mains, plenty of time to let the Pakora go down.

Graham was able to supply me with a list of the names of the organisers, apologies to anyone whose name is misspelled, this can be corrected, if advised, later.

The Alba Asia Network

There’s more…

those who made it possible

Sulochana Asmone, Ashe Asmone Maureen Anderson, Damian de Silva, Roshell de Silva, Anura Silva (Sulon?), Gamini Hettiarichi, Amal Kumarage and finally the Chef: Suneth Waidyrathana. I photographed as many as I could without being intrusive.

It was time for the Mains, we were invited to queue along the corridor outside, this gave space for those sitting nearer the food. The Lamb Curry was the Big Attraction, however, the array of Interesting Vegetables were also scooped on to the plate with great anticipation. The Devilled Chicken was not sampled yet it looked Delightfully Dry. Best to leave some for those who prefer Chicken.

Lamb Curry, Devilled Chicken, Brindjal Moju, Dhal Curry, Tomato and Onion Salad, Tempered Beans, Butternut Squash Curry Rice and Fried Vegetable Noodles were in plentiful supply and were constantly topped up. Nobody would leave without an Elegant Sufficiency, indeed many went back for more.

One has to accept that Buffet Curry will never be too taxing, the masses must be able to eat it. The Lamb although very Tender was served in a pleasant but towards Bland Masala. More seasoning and more of a Kick would have made it wonderful. The Kick would come from the Dhal Curry. This was also Dry and received positive comments by us all. I had spotted the Brindjal Moju as I queued in the corridor. A blend of Onion and Aubergine this was a first time experience and most impressive. I shall look for this in future as a suitable Accompaniment or Side Dish. The Butternut Squash was also a first, similar to Khadu this was a suitable base for a decent Vegetable Curry. The Green Beans also gave a lovely Crunch and added to the array of textures on the plate. Splendid, Hector went back for more Lamb Curry to mix with more Dhal, now we are talking…

and even more…

more still…

The Raffle

Steve left straight after the meal, the rest of us spread our raffle tickets across the table. Michael won twice, and Eleanor who never wins anything won some Chocolates. At the very end of the draw, Hector went up to blindly choose a package – Fork Handles.

And so farewells were exchanged, Marg and Hector will certainly meet Archie and Maureen again. In the meantime Archie has expressed a desire to join The Brave who visit Yadgar and ask – To be fed...

One hopes that a significant sum was raised. Graham’s Sweeties would no doubt top this up. Same time next year?

Posted in Home Cooked (by others) | 3 Comments

Home Cooked Achari Gosht

Posted on April 24, 2013 by Hector

 The local supermarket has not been selling its full quota of Lamb of late at full price. Hector has been walking out with some bargains. With three differing bundles, Gigot Chops, Neck Fillet and Diced, another Home-Cooked Curry was mandatory. Last night the Lamb was oven cooked in its own juices having been shrouded in Garam Masala and one third of a jar of Lime Pickle mixed through. After some ninety minutes a very Dry Curry Brew had been created.

It was then Marg announced she would not be home for food this evening. The Lone Diner, Home Alone.

The Masala was prepared as per the standard Lamb Bhuna Recipe. The advantage of pre-cooking the Lamb in this way is much less attention required on the day of serving. Fresh Coriander, Potato and some Yoghurt were the final additions. The results were visually stunning, so what about the Taste?

With the varied Lamb there was varied results. Some Lamb, the Neck, was decidedly overcooked but the majority was bang on. The Lime Pickle gave the required Tang. Not over-spiced there was a definite Kick, one wonders if Marg would have coped. A Dry Curry, Hector-style.

Now, what to do with the two large helpings leftover… Robin?

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Naughty Nawaabs – Heroic Hector

Posted on April 20, 2013 by Hector

Hector finds himself in Aberdeen for the weekend in the company of Twelve Charming Young Ladies, including Marg. Having watched Hockey match after Hockey match, a Curry was well deserved. Marg had booked a table for 13 at The Nawaabs Tandoori (33 Summer St, Aberdeen, AB10 1SB) on Thursday evening which the Restaurant further confirmed by calling back at lunchtime today, they knew we were coming. This Venue has been on the List of Hector’s Recommended Curry Houses  since the birth of this Website. Hector has been a few times but not in some sixteen months. Nearby Nazma had been considered, however, my own revue put me off. Nawaabs deserved another try, especially since my last verdict was quite open. Let’s avoid the Lamb Tikka this time.

We trooped in at 19.05, five minutes after the pre-arranged time. Three tables had been joined to create a single long table, along the window. Every time I have eaten here this is where I have sat. There is an interior to this Restaurant towards the Bar, one day perhaps…

The table was most welcoming with separate servings of Onion Chutney, Mango Chutney and Raita set out strategically. As the Token Male, I was given the seat at the head of the table. We were offered Poppadoms, Thirteen were agreed. Various Soft Drinks were ordered with Jugs of Tap Water. One Bottle of Sparkling Water was included…

Twelve Females, is there enough Chicken in The House?

The Menu was a lengthy read, not always a good sign in my book. The Green Herb Curry, this time with Tender Lamb, was the intended order. Lamb Bhuna nearly distracted me, one wonders what the difference would be apart from being £1 cheaper. Marg had also spotted the Afghan Lamb, tempting, but surely it could not rival the excellent Khyber (Glasgow)? And so Green Herb Curry it was – Medium with a Kick and as Dry as Possible – with a Side of Aloo Gobi and two Chapattis (£1.50). Marg took the Afghan option and agreed to share a Peshwari Nan with Gaby.

Chicken Korma was the choice of Rebecca, Fiona, Emma and Megan. Only one Chicken Tikka Masala, by Miss X. Gaby and Caleigh went for Chicken and Lamb Pasanda respectively. Verity and Sophie believed the Chicken Zhalfraizi would be a Jalfrezi variant. Kim who had heard the Hector and Marg Menu Analysis chose Chicken Bhuna, meanwhile Eilidh was determined to have what I had. In the end her Green Herb Curry was in Chicken. At least we had one member of the Company who displayed her pedigree in the World of Curry. Rice for sharing and a further Peshwari Nan, Garlic Nan and maybe more were added. No Starters, we shall keep it simple. We retained a Menu to facilitate the End Game.

With the Poppadoms consumed the wait for the Mains began. The Restaurant was full, on previous visits this has never been the case. Nawaabs proudly display Framed Newspapers in the Vestibule of favourable Comments, Awards et al. They should know what they are doing. The wait however, went on and on. By 20.15 it looked as though the planned 21.00 Cinema Visit could be in jeopardy. The Waiters occasionally looked over to see if more drinks were required, they got the message, the Girls are on a Budget, hardly going to order more Soft Drinks at a steep £2.20 for Coke served in a glass. A Tall Trolley of Malts and Liqueurs was parked beside us, a safe place.

Eventually a Trolley was wheeled out laden with Curry. The Meals were distributed with some degree of efficiency, also helped by the fact that I had recorded everybody’s Main Dish on the Trusty Samsung. The Breads and Rice followed quickly. I went into Hector mode and went around the table taking the necessary Photos.

The Review of 13 servings of Curry, here we go…

The Green Herb Curry was indeeed Tender Lamb, however, the Lamb was far too chewy. The Masala was a standard Thick-ish Masala but there was way too much of it, so much for Dry. The Flavour was dominated by a single Slight Sweetness. The Dish had been Topped with Fresh Coriander, there was little visible sign of other Herbs by Sight or by Taste. The Aloo Gobi side was served Cold. The Cauliflower was well undercooked, still it and the Potato did their job as being the Interesting Vegetable, just. The Chapattis were fine, the various components were mopped up with ease.

Eilidh enjoyed her Chicken version of the same Dish. She remarked on the – Coriander Infusion. Hector had been hoping for a much more Complex set of Flavours.

Marg, sitting on my left, had secured a Hot Plate to replace the Cold one offered originally. She then questioned the sense of this knowing that her Dish came with a Salad. The Afghan Lamb was to me a portion of Lamb Tikka covered in a too Red Masala and Topped with Green Leaves, none of which was the one I was hoping for either. When offered a sample I felt the Tikka  Lamb was too dominant.

Marg declared her Afghan Lamb had a definite – Kick – and went on to say –  The Lamb was not great.. The Salad cooled her down – An Interesting Combination. The Peshwari Nan was perhaps a new experience for Marg, she enjoyed the Sweetness and knows full well that I would never order such a Sweet Bread.

Kim, sitting on my right described her Chicken Bhuna as – Quite Flavoursome, well balanced Spice, and sweetness from the Tomato. I had to declare that these sounded like the words of our regular Curryspondent, Howard.

Sophie and Verity had different experiences with their Chicken Zhalfraizi. Sophie was – Brought to tears, too overwhelming, and couldn’t eat the Fresh Green Chillies. Verity was expecting more Vegetables. She thought the Chicken was of – Good quality – but went on to describe the Garlic Nan as being more like a Butter Nan – Not enough Garlic. She also objected to being charged £2.20 for a Flat Coke.

Gaby’s Chicken Pasanda was described as – A Very Sweet Korma with a Tiny Kick. Caleigh was disappointed with her Lamb Pasanda.

She – didn’t expect it to be so Mild, and the Lamb was far too Chewy. So, three Lamb Dishes in total, and each one had Meat that was not up to the expected standard.

This leaves Chicken Korma, The Kiddy Curry. Emma considered this to be – Bland, more tasteless – than her usual Korma, whilst Fiona found it to be typical and what she expected. Emma thought there was too much Sauce and not enough Chicken. Megan enjoyed hers but also considered the Portion to be Small. She was very vocal about the length of time it took for the Meals to arrive. Rebecca spoke most favourably about the Korma – Really Tasty – but found a Bone in her Chicken. Miss X also thought there was too much Sauce in her Chicken Tikka Masala but found it Tasty enough. She also hoped for Pink Coconut on her Nan.

Those who shared Rice considered the Portions too small to do so and thought the Rice was on the Stodgy side.

So, out of 13 Covers, maybe 3 are really positive. Time was against us. Marg started sorting the Cash, I asked for The Bill. This took an age, why keep us all in? Why not expedite our departure and free up the space? Again, after an unnecessary amount of time The Bill was presented. We had amassed £210.00, cash.

The Bill

£235.55. What? For the record, Hector’s share was some £20.20, around a Fiver more than I would pay for the same in Glasgow.

Scrutiny was required. £24.20 was for Soft Drinks. Only one Glass bottle had been brought to the table, the Sparkling Water. £13.00 for Poppadoms. They are having a laugh, the Dips were on the table when we arrived suggesting Complementary Poppadoms to follow as I believe they were on my last visit. I looked at The Menu, Interesting… And then I spotted The Killer £21.50, a 10% Service Charge, why? Again I studied The Menu.

The Aftermath

Marg assembled The Troops and started the march back to the Mini Bus, we had an appointment at The Movies. I went up to the Counter and asked to see whoever was in charge. The Waiter at the Counter looked at The Bill and I went into full Hector mode.

Can you show me the price of a Poppadom on your Menu please? He couldn’t, it wasn’t there. Charging £13.00 for Poppadoms is ridiculous – I told him. They are usually inclusive.

I pointed to the Service Charge. He told me there is a 10% Service Charge for groups of Five or more. Can you show me where it says that on The Menu, or anywhere else in the Restaurant please? Again, he couldn’t. I feel a Campaign coming on. Why do restaurants think they can do this? One is doing them a favour by turning up in a single body rather than dribs and drabs Do they not want £200.00 of Business?

He played the – I only work here – card. I reminded him I had asked to see whoever was in charge. I have brought you a large Group of Kids, on a Budget, you seriously cannot expect to get away with this extra 10%. I have brought you Business.

The Bill was added once more without the Poppadoms and the Service Charge. £201.55. This was within acceptable parameters. There was now a Modest Tip.

I issued my Calling Card – A Review of this evening shall appear shortly.

Conclusion

Nawaabs is currently no more than a Mainstream Curry House selling Bog Standard Curry. I thank them for seeing sense with The Bill, however, they can no longer occupy a place on the Curry-Heute List of Hector’s Recommended Curry Houses. Surely the City deserves an outstanding Venue? I am assured that it is worth driving to Echt in the depths of Aberdeenshire.

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Keema Gurmeet at The Punjabi Charing Cross

Posted on April 17, 2013 by Hector

There was a Celebration today, Jonathan’s Birthday and a Farewell to Sandy at Hengler’s Circus, anything else? Hector nearly made it home without a Curry-Heute, but having missed my train at Charing Cross by seconds, it was written. The Punjabi Charing Cross (157-159 North St, Glasgow G3 7DA) was overdue a visit. Tonight there was no Hari and no Ram, I would be looked after by Kevin and Adele. The latter did not know me at all when I entered, by the time I left she most certainly did.

Choosing a table along the window wall I was able to see into the Kitchen, Chef Gurmeet was on duty, wonderful. When Adele offered the Menu I declined and asked if I could talk to the Chef instead. By now she was no doubt wondering who would enter a Restaurant and request this.

Hector had a new Curry Experience on his mind. The Keema Padora has been written about in each of my last three visits at least. A Magnificent Starter of Dry Keema Lamb on a Puri. The plan was to ditch the Slightly Sweet Bread and maximise the Meat, could I have this as a Main Course.  Chef Gurmeet of course recognised The Hector and listened to my description – A Main Course of Keema with Extra Fresh Methi. No problem it appeared, and so The Keema Gurmeet was born! Two Chapattis would be the Accompaniment, this would not be suitable for Rice.

I could hear The Chef busy at work. Kevin came over to ask the inevitable question. I cannot be in every Curry House every week. Can anyone work out where my next Glasgow Curry will be consumed? Assuming the Mince was already cooked, it did not take long for the Delight to appear – Gosh! There was no Masala, none. This would be the Driest Curry I have been served in Glasgow since the fabled Mrs. Madjhu’s. The Methi was most apparent, how could this fail?

Every Dip in the Well -Seasoned Mince was stunning. Although there was no Masala there was still a suitable Moistness to the Dish, and it is worth noting the Oil residue was also minimal. Could this be The Perfect Curry?

I realised I was slowing down, the Richness of the Flavours was taking its toll. It is possible that the Pleasure became so intense it was tending towards Excess? Enough already. Adele came over to ask if I had finished as I took a short break. There’s a helluva lot of eating in this – I assured her. In the end the Dish was devoured and a Half Chapatti abandoned.

Maybe sharing this as a Starter would be the optimum, Dr. Stan may be my next Guinea Pig.

The Bill

£11.95. This included a glass of Sparkling Water.

The Aftermath

Adele and Kevin were getting ready to share a Dish, well it was now after 23.00 and the business for the day was probably over. Adele used to be a Biryani eater. Since starting work here her experiences have been widened.

A Karahi with Chicken in a Spinach and Cream Masala was their choice, accompanied by a mean looking Cheese Nan. Chicken Makhani would be close to a reasonable description when the Curry and the Nan combine.

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