Asmaan Indian Restaurant – What a Rediscovery!

Posted on September 25, 2012 by Hector

This was an Extraordinary Day, Hector found himself late afternoon looking for a Glasgow City Centre Curry House. There had been a rendezvous with Jonathan and we agreed to try a venue which has been ignored for many, many years. Hector last set foot in the premises occupied by the Asmaan Indian Restaurant (22 Bath St., Glasgow, G2 1HB) when it was The Bay of Bengal back in the 1970s when there were far fewer outlets and this frequently jam-packed place was referred to as The Great Industrial Curry House of The North.

Incredibly, the Asmaan has been the brand since the mid 1980s. How often does one walk past? It is metres from the Concert Hall and Buchanan Galleries, a perfect Location for Lunch, Pre-Theatre, or simply a Curry-Heute!

The Menu was not over-complicated, what there was proved to be more than sufficient. The strangely spelled Zaik-E-Dar ticked all of the required boxes. Described as being a Bhuna with Fenugreek (Methi), Coriander and Mushrooms, what more could I require? I asked the Waiter for it to be served as Dry as the Chef could manage. Jonathan selected the Pardesi described as containing Spinach, Mushrooms and Fried Onions. The request for a Dry Curry was repeated. Four Chapattis (£1.00) would be shared.

There were three Fellow Diners who were clearly regulars given the conversation which included the Waiter – Jaydee – from time to time. During the wait we could see a Mature Turban-clad Chef working away in the Kitchen. The surroundings were bright, thankfully no Table-cloths. We sat on Bucket Seats, a Novelty.

The Waiter brought the dishes, they looked the part, the Thick Masala on both dishes was evident. Jonathan had Mushrooms piled high on top of his Pardesi. My first impression of the quantity was that the serving might be on the small side. The richness of what was set before us removed any further thoughts of this. The flavours simply burst out of the Zaik-E-Dar, well they would with Methi and Coriander, it was off to a good start. The Onion Slices complemented the dish further, this was an amusing moment.

Across the table Jonathan was having a similar experience. He even mopped up the last of the Masala with his Chapattis, something he rarely does.

 How many Bland Curry Houses are there in the Centre of Glasgow, this place has been overlooked for too long. If one does not have the time to get along to the Charing Cross area then this has to be considered. Open every day, then all day at Noon, the opportunity to visit at any time of day is there. There is a dearth of venues in Glasgow selling Curry on a Sunday afternoon.

The Bill

£24.90. This included two Bottles of Sparkling Water.

The Aftermath

There was a momentary struggle with the Card Machine. This gave us more time to chat with the Waiter. We introduced ourselves, Jaydee was pleased to exchange Calling Cards. The irony of the now decades this venue has operated and been ignored was admitted. Hector will be popping in here again – soon.

Unbeknown to Hector, I had just paid twice.

Posted in [Asmaan Indian Restaurant] | 1 Comment

Crawley – Desi Grill & Karahi House

Posted on September 23, 2012 by Hector

Hector spotted this new Curry outlet on Thursday night as Maggie drove Clive and I back from a disappointing Curry in Horley. Desi Grill and Karahi House (94 High Street, Crawley, West Sussex, RH10 1BZ) is a title Hector had to notice, it ticks all the boxes. Somehow Clive and Maggie were unaware of its existence. After a day in Brighton, Clive and I arranged to meet Maggie off a train arriving back in Crawley around 21.00. It was Curry O’clock.

From the exterior one might think the venue to be a Takeaway only, but closer examination reveals a sizeable seating area to the rear. Then there is another surprise in store, The Shisha Lounge, a Smoking Room under canvas out back. Not this would ever be of any interest to us.

This looks like another Crawley Winner!

The menu had all the dishes one could hope for, but in particular there it was – Karela Gosht. Two Tandoori Roti (£1.00) would go down fine with that. Temptation was set before Hector, how little for the Lamb Chops? I must try this and Maggie thought the same. Clive asked for a Shami Kebab to start, his favourite evidently. The waiter declined to sell them, tonight they were not good enough to serve. Seekh Kebab was the fall-back.

When it came to ordering the Mains I did my best to communicate the request for a Dry and Thick Curry, this was recorded. Maggie asked for the Lahori Lamb Karahi. She was then asked if she wished it on-the-bone or off-the-bone. It had to be on!

Before Clive could order there was a momentary disruption

A Chap at the counter was overheard asking for Cheese on Chips.

Throw him out – Maggie told the Waiter. It is ridiculous that people walk into a venue such as this and ask for such a feeble order. Punjabi Chicken Curry (off) was Clive’s order. The Lovely Couple would share Mushroom Rice and a Keema Nan.

The waiter read back the order – and Cheesie Chips!

Complimentary Poppadoms and Dips appeared.  A plate of Salad appeared.  We were being well looked after.

The Starters came and so did Maggie’s Main Course. Not yet please.

Clive described his Seekh Kebab as being Spiced to the perfect level – the tongue is still throbbing… The Lamb Chops Portion was Four Chops for £4.00. This is the best value I have encountered yet. The Chops were burnt-looking, thoroughly cooked yet retained their moisture. The flavours were intense, as was the Spice content. I suspect this could become a Late-Night Nibble for Clive and Maggie in the times to come.

Maggie’s Main course appeared again, it looked very pale, a very light brown. The Masala was Thick but not Dry, but in no way was this Soup. Maggie made ooh and aah sounds all the way through the eating, she was loving this. The pile of bones grew, Maggie remarked at easily the Meat came off the bones. Maggie had been fed. Bloody marvellous, the best Curry of this weekend! (Maggie had a Stiry-Fry at The Downsman.)

The Karela Karahi was similarly pale but Thicker due to the extra Vegetable. A Roti and a Nan – said the Waiter as he sat my Bread Basket before me. The Bitterness of the Karela prevented any sense of Sweetness from the Masala. The combination of the very Tender Lamb and Karela was just how I liked it, well it was until the Lamb ran out.

Clive described his Punjabi Chicken Karahi as being – excellent, which is officially better than – very nice.  Clive too was heard making the occasional Ooh as he ate.

The waiter appeared with a Complimentary Garlic Nan. He had worked out that if I was photographing everything there must be a reason. I gave him the Calling Card, he looked interested. The Garlic Nan was covered in Slivers of Garlic, this was the best of the Breads set before us. No Keema was harmed in the creation of Clive’s Nan.

We agreed that we had been treated to three great portions of Curry.

*

The Bill

£42.09. With three Starters this was very good value.

The Aftermath

The waiter offered us a Complimentary Rice Dessert. We had to decline, the appetites had been sated.

We were told that they have only been open for a month. The place should do well. They were interested in our comments on the food. I remarked that I had ended up with Karela only but this was down making sure the dish was served with a Thick Masala. Maggie suggested the Mushroom Rice could have had more Mushrooms. Everyone was happy to pose for photographs as we left. The Main Chef was presented especially. I congratulate him on the food he serves.

I wonder where Clive and Maggie will have their Curry tomorrow?

Update

It didn’t last, too good to be true.

crawley-kismet-kebab-curry-heute-8

 

Posted in [Desi Grill & Punjabi Karahi House] | 1 Comment

Jai Ho! – Another visit to Horley

Posted on September 22, 2012 by Hector

The Booking at Jai Ho at The Coppingham Arms (263 Balcombe Road, Horley, Surrey, RH6 9EF) was four 20.30, four hours after our superb Curry at The Downsman. Having been to India earlier this year, Clive and Maggie have no qualms about eating food in from the Indian Subcontinent as the norm. Normally Hector would have no problems in facing a Double Curry Session, alas, the Downsman Curry Experience today was the not the planned Snack.

Jim and Debs would be our Co-Diners this evening, again both have visited India and know what constitutes a Quality Curry.

One is expected to enter the former Coppingham Arms through the front door which takes one into the Bar area the door from the car park takes one into the eating area. There was nothing Bier-wise that Hector found of interest and so Soda Water was the Drink of Choice. The Others managed to find something Palatable, with a Kick.

We were taken through to the Dining Room at the rear, with the table hard against a pillar, five felt an awkward configuration. Poppadoms were offered, one each would suffice. They came quickly. Jim observed the lack of his favourite Dip – Lime Pickle. This is apparently his favourite additive when cooking.

The Poppadoms were long gone and nobody had taken our order. On the last visit the food was ordered on the Bar side where Mein Host had sold us on the need to experience the Lamb Chops. We had long since decided what our order would be, eventually we were permitted to convey this information. Jim and Debs would share Lamb Chops and Vegetable Samosas. Clive ordered Lamb Chops too assuming Maggie would assist. She had other ideas. Maybe Maggie was not that hungry tonight.

Hector had Fish Curry in mind as a way of guaranteeing something Light, and permitting a more diverse culinary report. The Malwani Fish Curry was the only Fish Curry on the Menu. This was described as having a West Coast origin.

Jim felt the Specials did not hold anything of interest and so chose the more traditional Lamb Rogan Josh. Debs and Clive chose Goan Prawns, whilst Maggie opted for Garlic Prawns. Mushroom Rice, Nan, Garlic Nan and a Tandoori Roti (£1.95!) for Hector were the Accompaniments.

The Starters came in a reasonable time. Knifes and forks were abandoned, there is only one way to eat Lamb Chops. Clive enjoyed his Chops despite trying to persuade Maggie and I to take one or two off his hands. Jim felt that the Downsman Chops are signification better, they are more Crispy at the latter venue. The Samosas impressed both Jim and Debs, the Potato revealing itself first, the other Vegetables and Spices joining in to the complete the joy of this Snack Food.

21.30

Maggie and I had now sat without food for an hour, this was to our benefit.

The Main courses were brought a full hour after we had sat down, this tactic certainly improves the profits as more Bier was ordered. Assuming we would retire to The Swan, I stuck with the Soda Water.

The Malwani Fish Curry was White Fish in a Yellow Masala. My Islamabad Curryspondent told me that in the Indian Subcontient they do not really go out of their way to identify the various Fish that they encounter. Masala Fish is how Fish is sold in KRK, my Glasgow Grocer/Butcher. The Coconut content was minimal and so the Sweetness level was within tolerable limits. The expected Red Chillis were present and the Black Mustard Seeds. This is the classic South Indian Masala (by my Geographic description), the Masala had more than just a Kick, it was Fiery. I enjoyed this variation from my preferred Karahi-style dishes. The Fish was Light and so did the job, A Curry without the Calories, hopefully.

Maggie tasted Clive’s Goan Masala to compare it to her own. We had deduced that the Masala here was the same as in my Fish Curry. The heat built up slowly on Maggie’s palate and then she felt the assault. In comparison her Masala had the Garlic to the fore. Maggie’s revenge for Clive having something similar in Horley two nights before.

Jim had demolished his Rogan Josh in quick time. Perhaps the Portion was not that large? He was not particularly impressed by what he had eaten. Not the best, not the worst, he felt he could have cooked the same himself. Bog standard, typical Indian Gravy with some Lamb in it.

The Bill

£123.90. When one adds another £30 for the taxis to and from Crawley this may make Horley a destination too far. Crawley has enough very fine Curry outlets.

The Aftermath

The taxi back took three people home and two elsewhere. Hector felt like a Bier finally, and so to The Swan it was.

Posted in Jai Ho at The Coppingham Arms | Comments Off on Jai Ho! – Another visit to Horley

Return to The Downsman

Posted on September 22, 2012 by Hector

Hector returned from the Bar at the Burgess Hill Beer Festival to find that Maggie had hatched a plan – even though we are due to have a Curry-Heute at Horley’s Jai Ho this evening, a Curry for lunch was mooted. Nowhere in Burgess Hill wanted to feed us mid afternoon and so it was back to Crawley and another visit to the excellent Downsman (Wakehurst Drive, Southgate, Crawley, RH10 6DH).  This is a Pub which does not sell  Interesting Bier, but now sells wonderful Curry.

The plan was to have a Light Lunch and not spoil the Appetite for this evening. I had to consult a reliable Curry Website to find out what I had eaten here on my first visit – Lamb Methi – perhaps the best one I had ever eaten. Clive decided this was the dish for him, and it was to be a Light Lunch, a Keema Nan. The Lamb Saagwaala sounded as if it could be a variation form the normal Lamb Spinach creation. As the Roti were a pricey £1.50, the Paratha seemed to be better value. Maggie ordered something quite different, a Chicken Stir-Fry – Roshan Ada Murgh along with a Mushroom Rice.

Clive went to the Bar to order the food. At this point I found a Comment by Bert from Belgium on my last visit. He highly recommended the Chilli Wang Wang and so the Light Lunch was expanded. This turned out to be a very generous plate of Spicy Chicken Wings. It was just as well we were sharing, nobody could have eaten a Main Course after this. The Wings were indeed Spicy and just in case there was an insufficient Kick, a small Bowl of Chilli Sauce was provided. We dipped but mostly ate the Chicken without. Chilli Wang Wang indeed.

Whilst we were waiting for the Mains, Ross called his Dad, he was in the neighbourhood and so would join us for a Curry.

The Roshan Ada Murgh arrived on a Sizzling Platter. The Chicken was coated in Spice, the rest was large-ish pieces of Onion and Capsicum. Maggie was determined not to eat the lot as time was passing. She enjoyed the dish but let Ross tuck in when he arrived.

I had to sample both of the Lamb Dishes to establish which was the Methi and which the Saagwaala, the latter had a slightly greater leaf content. Both dishes had a significant Yoghurt content. The Saagwaala was not overwhelmed by the Spinach as most Saag dishes tend to be. The Masala was incredibly Rich, the Lamb as Tender as Lamb could possibly be. The Methi may Out-Wow the Saagwaala, however both dishes are wonderful. The Chicken Wings were taking their toll, I only managed half of the Paratha.  Clive described his Lamb Methi as having exceptionally Tender Lamb, exciting on the Palate, Tingling, not Burning…

The Bill

£33.85. This was paid in advance at the Bar and so made the presentation less personal.

The Aftermath

Ross ordered Chicken Achari, a Side of Saag Bhaji and Vegetable Rice. The Saag Bhaji looked like a typical Spinach Curry. For once I declined the offer to sample, a desperate attempt to let the food go down. Maggie is convinced that the photo of Ross will increase the Hit-Rate on this site. He looks like his Mum… Yes, that is him on the BMW too.

Four hours until our next Curry… it will have to be Fish.

Posted in The Downsman Indian Restaurant (Curry Club) | Comments Off on Return to The Downsman

London (Tower Hamlets) – Sheba – Brick Lane

Posted on September 21, 2012 by Hector

This is only Hector’s third visit to Brick Lane and the first since the dawn of Curry-Heute. In the interest of all things fair, I made the decision to return to the venue that had been on the Recommended List since the start of this Website – The Spice Brick Lane. It was that good, alas it has gone.

I had walked the main stretch three times before I could find a suitable replacement venue. Three things were apparent as I saw Brick Lane in daylight for the first time: most venues are Bangladeshi, they all have tablecloths, they do not serve the Curry I am looking for.

The Award Winning Curry Houses were dismissed instantly, who wants an Award? The menus in the windows did help me establish that the choice of dish was limited to the Mainstream. Dear Reader, if one wishes Chicken Tikka Masala then support your local Curry House, it all comes out of the same jar.

Sheba (136 Brick Lane, London, Greater London, E1 6RU) I now discover was awarded Best Restaurant in Brick Lane 2012, so how can any other place be best in London et al? They were modest with their boast. The sign was above the Menu in the window and given the narrowness of the pavement, totally missed by Hector. It was the menu that took me in – there was a Dry Curry listed, nowhere else had Karahi, Desi or anything remotely interesting in their menus, that I spotted.

The Lone Diner entered and was given a small table mid room. Two menus were offered, I dismissed the Lunchtime Menu instantly, the full Bhuna was required. The Dry Meat (Korai Bhuna) was the order with a Garlic Nan. At £2.70 for what would be a relatively small Nan, this was way better than the requested £2.15 for a solitary Chapatti. Who are they kidding? Am I in Aberdeen? And as we all know, multiple Chapattis are inclusive in Bradford.

The two Chaps on duty were busying themselves as best they could whilst my dish was prepared. I had the trusty HTC to keep me amused. Clive had emailed me directions to Brick Lane and most importantly, the Craft Beer Company near Hatton Garden. From where would I get the 55 Bus?

The Korai Bhuna was presented, it looked wonderful. Hot and Sizzling, I was warned not to touch the karahi-bowl. The Nan was fresh and puffy, but half the size one would receive in Northern Britain. The Waiter walked passed as I took my first mouthful – Good Curry was my instant complement. Indeed, this was a true gem of a Curry. Dry as the name suggests, the Lamb was so Tender. The magnificently Thick Masala had familiar flavours. There was a combination of Caramelised Onion and probably Methi too. Bay Leaves were picked out, however this was the only debris, Hector ate every morsel.

The Waiter enquired half way through if I was enjoying the meal, well of course, they must know how good this dish is, though his Assistant was heard to ask what it was when it came out of the Kitchen. I took the opportunity to engage in conversation. It was established that nearly all the Curry Houses in Brick Lane are indeed Bangladeshi, so this means I now have to find the Punjabi cohort in London. Clive always remarks that the Glasgow-Pakistanis speak with a Glasgow accent. The waiter sounded very English, so perhaps he does not notice this in his own backyard? A very charming guy was my impression.

The Bill

£15.00. On composing The Bill, The Waiter instantly realised he had the wrong price for the Dry Bhuna and so checked from the Menu.  Do people not order this wonderful dish? London prices, still cheaper than Aberdeen. The Curry portion was more than adequate.

The Aftermath

The Calling Card was graciously received, the Waiter was happy to have his photo taken. Later this very evening, Sultan, The Manager emailed me to thank me for my visit. Everything was indeed good and the food was excellent.

I feel I must have a Brick Lane Recommended Venue, and so even after only a single visit it has to be Sheba.

Posted in Sheba | 1 Comment

Horley – New Curry Bengal

Posted on September 20, 2012 by Hector

‘Planes and Curry

Clive spent a considerable amount of time researching the Curry Houses within either a twenty mile or twenty minute radius of Gatwick. With the easyJet flight from Glasgow on time, Hector was collected by Lord Clive and Lady Maggie and whisked off to Horley, scene of a splendid Curry-Heute at the Jai Ho in July of this year. Our booking for the New Curry Bengal (25 Station Road, Horley, RH6 9HW, Surrey) was for 22.00, we were a few minutes early. This did not matter, we would be the only Diners.

An Award Winning Restaurant, Clive informed me en route – what Honourable Person accepts an Award? The Chef was flown over to LA by Beyonce to cook her a Curry is a Saga that is reported on the Website for the New Curry Bengal. Somehow I suspect that this was not the Chef who prepared our meals this evening.

We were offered Poppadoms, they were not brought automatically, so we know what that means. The table for four was small, with the Menus in hand there already little space. Being the start of the Holiday Weekend Hector permitted himself a pint of Indian Lager. We were offered both Kingfisher and Cobra. Clive confirmed that both were on draught. A Pint of Kingfisher and a Bottle of Cobra were then presented. By this time Maggie was raving about the Poppadoms – Fresh and Crispy – how they should be. That this could have been the highlight of the meal was as yet unknown to us. There was sufficient Mango Chutney and Onion for the three of us with two Yoghurt Dips.

The Menu was like something from the 1970s with added Balti. Hector could only find one Curry in the Specials List that might suit, there was no sign of Karahi or Desi-style dishes. The Ada Kata Lamb was a possibility – Lamb strips tossed in a whole roasted spice and fresh root ginger – whatever that means. I checked, the Lamb was Tikka Lamb, scratch this. There were no more Specials that were not either Chicken or Lamb Tikka. This left the classic Curry dishes and so as I normally do in such a situation I ordered the Meat Vindaloo. Why does a Menu revert to Meat?  And why the – New Curry Bengal? At a little over £5 compared to the £8 for the Specials I felt entitled to order a well priced Side – the Aloo Gobi. The Waiter later read it back as Aloo Sag and had to be corrected. Assuming the worst, I dismissed Chapattis (90p) and opted for Plain Pilau Rice.

Maggie who was once again reminiscing about the wonderful food she and Clive experienced in India earlier this year, insisted on pronouncing the Murgh Mumtaj correctly. Clive managed to sneak in a Shami Kebab along with his Garlic Murgh Chilli. One more Pilau Rice for Clive and a Mushroom Rice for Maggie, who was hungry.

It did feel somewhat strange sitting alone in a decent sized Restaurant on a Thursday night.

A Trolley was pushed out with the majority of the dishes. The Meat Vindaloo was placed upon the Plate Warmer – Soup! Maggie’s Murgh Mumtaj looked very interesting – a piece of rolled Chicken covered in a Korma-style Masala. Clive’s Garlic Murgh Chilli looked the most aggressive of the three dishes with its single large Red Chilli sitting proudly on top.

Two out of three ain’t bad – it’s ridiculous!

Maggie broke the seal on her Roll of Chicken. It had been described as being Mild and having Spice and Herbs. The photo of the interior shows why I will never have a Chicken Curry, how can there be anything exciting about this? Maggie found the dish to be exceptionally Mild and too Coconutty. The Mushroom Rice was hardly touched. In the end a good bit was left – this meal did not impress.  One assumes Maggie was still hungry.

I poured the Sauce on to my plate with some of the Meat. It was as if no Onion had been harmed in the creation of this dish. The Meat, Lamb possibly, was tough. It had also most likely been introduced to the Sauce moments before being served. There was no flavour to take note of at all, there was no heat. This was a Vindaloo? Did it deserve to be served up as Curry?

There were some pieces of Potato so I had to question my own order when I added some of the Aloo Gobi to the plate. It is just as well I ordered this Side. The Aloo Gobi was the very good indeed. A Dry and Thick Masala oozing with flavour and a very decent Kick. The Side was Spicier than the Vindaloo – by far!  A full plate of this and a couple of Chapattis would have been far more satisfying.

Clive was a bit behind Maggie and I having taken care of his Starter which of course came with his Main. Light on the Spices – not the best Shami Kebab was Clive’s comment as he started piling the Chicken on to his Pilau Rice.

He had little to say about his own Garlic Murgh Chilli other than it was Spicy too. I tasted a bit of the Masala – now here was a Curry! If Howard had been here he would have insisted on exchanging meals so that Hector would have the best one. The Masala was very well Spiced indeed. The classic Indian  Curry flavour achieved through the blend of Onion and Red Chilli was to the fore. Although still far too runny, this at least was the basis for a decent Curry. If only it been offered in Lamb, sorry – Meat.

 When the Waiter came over to check on our progress there was none of the usual – Fine. Having watched the Photos been taken of every part of the meal he must have guessed. Indeed, for the first time the Diners do not appear themselves. You can read about it tomorrow was my response on our behalf.

The Bill

£48.50. This did include exceptional items – two Indian Lagers. £3.30 was for the Poppadoms and Dips.

The Aftermath

The Calling Card was placed on the tray as Clive did the Credit Card trick. There was no comment when I announced that a revue would appear on my Curry Blog.

With Hindsight, I could have asked for a Tender Lamb Chettinad, not on the Menu (Chicken Chettinad is) but possibly a dish they might cook well given Clive’s order. Perhaps somebody will ask for this one day and let the Hector know.

There was a mad dash to The Swan for last orders. Fortunately they are open until midnight on a Thursday. How Professional of Clive not to know this…

Posted in New Curry Bengal | 3 Comments

The Village Curry House is Open – for Curry!

Posted on September 17, 2012 by Hector

The Village Curry House (119 West St., Tradeston, Glasgow, G5 8BA – I shall have to get used to this alteration of address) has been through a lot in the past thirty months or so.  The temporary re-location dragged on, and on.  Every month that passed made one wonder if the project had become a White Elephant.  Five days ago, Archie – a Southside Curryspondent for Curry-Heute, informed Hector that the opening was imminent.  I telephoned and could only be told that it would be sometime over the weekend.

Hector has been without Curry for too many days.  The scheduled late arrival in Mainz on Friday night did not permit a Bier and a Curry.  It was a Friday night in Deutschland, Bier won.  The planned Sunday afternoon Curry in Frankfurt am Main was abandoned because DB were not operating at their customary level of efficiency.  It was the aftermath of The Weekend, The Village must be open by now…

I entered the New Build, gosh! this is an impressive construction.  This Website has shown many Blog Entries with the former Industrial Unit under redevelopment.  The windows were always whitewashed, the interior was not visible.  This conversion is certainly a major breakthrough in the Glasgow Curry Scene.  Hopefully the quality of the food would be at the expected standard.

I was shown to a table for two at the beginning of the new vast eating area.  There were about a dozen co-diners.  The Takeaway business remains steady; everything there is so new and shiny.  What an improvement!  The Head Waiter – he was not wearing the new Village Curry House shirt, recognised me.  This took me slightly aback.  This is my first Village Visit this year!  Given the frequency of my custom over the last six to seven years it was slightly embarrassing.

The Black, Silky New Menu was brought; I had to study it and asked for ten minutes to do so. The Village Curry House Page on my Recommended Curry House List now provides the detail.  A straightforward Lamb Lahori Kirahi was surely new.  No Laal Lahori!  The Spellings of dishes have changed also. The first three items on the Village Signature Dish section showed that finally the dishes are available by Weight as well as by Portion.  Yippee!  A Half-Kilo of Lamb Lahori Kirahi it was to be.  The Vegetable Rice at The Village has always been a standout and so for old time’s sake I ordered the Special Rice. For the record, Chapattis are 95p each, so the Bradford custom of inclusive Chapattis has yet to come North.  I was provided with Two Poppadoms and a serving of Onion Chutney, Complementary one assumed.

I was asked how Hot I wished my Curry.  Hotter than Medium was my reply.  Desi the Waiter remarked.  He returned a few moments later to inform me that my Half Kilo of Lamb would be on-the-bone.

 Ladies and Gentlemen, this is the whole point of the Larger Sized Portion!  In a Standard Portion, by the time one deals with the Bones there is the realisation that not a lot of Food has been eaten.  A Half Kilo ensures total satisfaction.  There is always a Doggy-Bag – when did Hector last need a Doggy Bag?  I do not think this Curry Hound has ever resorted to this… for his own meal…

Master Baig acknowledged my presence, another familiar face.  One Chef has been a constant throughout my years at The Village; I have often speculated that he must be – Family.  Mr Baig, The Proprietor, was also on the new Premises, busy sorting whatever.

I had time to take in the new surroundings.  I had also been given permission to go on a Photo-Shoot once I had eaten.

A young waiter in the new Burgundy Shirt brought my Kirahi and Rice.  This was a new Metal Serving Bowl, never has so much Village Curry been set before The Hector – here we go.

The Yogurt content was very subtle.  The Masala was absolutely minimal.  The Oil gathering at the Base of the Bowl was within acceptable parameters – some of the Village Curry servings were becoming too Oily.   The Flavour was Classic Village with a bit of The Khyber added.  This was maybe down to the Fresh Green Chillies which had been liberally sprinkled over the Dish.

The Rice had an aroma of Clove, but not excessively so.  Peas and Mushrooms were the added Interesting Vegetables – a good combination.

The joy of the Half-Kilo is that when one gets to what would normally be the end, there is that bit more. The Tender Lamb was cooked to perfection – as one would expect at this establishment. I had some ten Bones left on my plate.  The appetite had been sated.  Mission accomplished.

The Bill

£19.45.  So the Poppadoms were Complementary.  This is some £6.00 above the normal Portion price, and worth it.

The Aftermath

The Waiter and Young Master Baig were happy to chat about the redevelopment.  I asked about the Blackboard – where the Daily Specials have featured.  Daily Specials will continue – it is early days yet.  The place only shifted back across the street four days ago and they had a Wedding two days ago.  Officially, The Village is not open – two more weeks and they will have a major Advertising campaign – on TV too!  The Young, ever so charming waitress, was appointed as my Guide and took me around the Premises.  The Stairs are impressive in their design.  I was taken into the Private Upper Room and banged my head on the way out – careful!  This is still to be fitted out. The Balcony will be different.  No Kids up here I was assured. How do I guarantee a regular seat? The entrance to the Toilets is also ornate.  They must be an infinite improvement on what was once provided.  It was only at the far end of the seemingly endless room that I realised that there was a new doorway from West St, their new address!  Mr Baig was still busy, however we exchanged a few words.  He must be a Happy Man to see this Project completed.  I had to ask about the Bellahouston In the Park outlet, he intends to keep it going too.

I suspect The Friends of Hector will all wish to partake in a Curry Ritual at the new premises of The Village Curry House –  I may well have to accompany them.

A Half-Kilo of Village Lamb Desi Korma, on-the-bone…

Posted in The Village "Curry House" | 1 Comment

Rasoi Indian Restaurant …of the year 2012…in Lenzie…

Posted on September 9, 2012 by Hector

The afternoon began with Hector watching the Scottish Ladies playing an International Hockey Match in the company of Marg, their former Captain. Scotland won, pity I could not report this yesterday for the only Sport that counts… Readers may wonder why there are no photos of Charming Ladies playing Hockey, Hector did not have his SLR with him, keeping a low profile.

Thereafter we headed towards Twechar in search of a famous pub, it was not revealing itself. Instead we walked up the Bar Hill to the site of a Roman Fort and a section of the Antonine Wall. It was soon Curry O’clock. A Curry in Lenzie was calling. Lenzie, the town where Hector spent his formative years, how happy I was to move back to Glasgow.

Rasoi Indian Restaurant (1 Millersneuk Shopping Centre, Lenzie, G66 5JD) has the distinction of being nominated for and winning two categories at this year’s Scottish Curry Awards. Hector was nominated in the Curry Lover of the Year category, there should have been a Steward’s Enquiry…

The Best Indian Restaurant in Scotland 2012, we shall see.

Arriving at 18.00 there were three groups already in situ. We were shown to a table for two in what is a most impressive Restaurant in terms of layout and design. The premises are new, everything was spick and span, no tablecloths, thankfully.

The rear of the room has a glass wall allowing a view of a small garden area, pleasant. The Menu told of the origins of selling Pakora as a side in Carriages, the adjacent pub. There was no pub in Lenzie whilst Hector was resident, and certainly no Curry House. The Menu also suggested that the Poppadoms Basket and Accompaniments would set us back over £4, when a waiter presented these we were in the dark as to whether these were Complimentary or not. How many venues bring them and charge? Too many!

Marg spotted the Chicken Labadar – Spicy, with Butter, Coriander, Cream and Cashew Nuts. Is that Cashoooo, or Caaaashoo? A worthy choice in keeping with Marg’s preferences. Hector had a problem. The Karahi was described as being similar to the Balti but served with Green Peppers – ugh! The Balti was described as including Capsicum. I had to ask. Regular Readers know that Hector cannot abide this Mushy Green Vegetable in a Curry, Marg is getting that way too. The Waiter suggested that the Green Peppers might already be in the dish, he went away to check. I was getting ready to leave. The Menu was not over-long which is preferable to venues with endless tweaks of the same Pot, however there was nothing else I would consider eating. It was somewhat amusing to see a Menu section entitled Glasgow Curry. Here lay the usual fare.

Fortunately the Waiter returned and said they could do a Karahi without Green Peppers. I ensured that Tender Lamb was the recorded option, the Tikka version was available too. At least after Friday at the Delhi Darbar (Bishopbriggs) it was clear that both were on offer. Three Chapattis at £1.05 were to be the Accompaniments. Why do we have to pay for Chapattis? Oh, Bradford was last weekend.

The wait for the meals was not long. In fact we were given ours before a larger group in the corner. Another waiter brought the food and apologised for the delay, we assured him there was no perception of one. One tends to know what is coming if a Curry comes too soon.

The Curry was served in standard metal bowls but the contents were piled high, impressive. The Masala was Dark and Thick, Hector was now anticipating something worthwhile. Spooning some of the Lamb on to the impressively warmed plates, it was apparent that the Meat content was indeed going to be worthy of a meal. As the dish was £9.95 it was pleasing to see the content justify the price. Hector is always happy to pay more than the norm if a Good Feed is provided.

The Lamb was tender and in larger pieces than served in many places. Onion was the flavour that dominated the Masala. The Chapattis were made from a Brown Flour, different. Marg thought I was struggling, no just taking my time. I was enjoying this Feast, however I cannot state that it came anywhere near the Best Curry I have ever been served in Scotland.  The Curry-Heute Recommendations on the right of this page and above, make the sources of these very clear.

Marg had been defeated by this time and was ordering Coffee. What etiquette? The portion size was way more than Marg could ever hope to polish off. She found her dish to be a good change, it was Spicy, Sweet and Sour as she expected. The rest was declared fit for a Doggy Bag, and so Hector will be forced to add a Postscript – later.

The Bill

£30.40. Initially it was £28.70 but the Coffee had not made it on in time. The Poppadoms had been Complimentary, another positive. £1.90 for a Pint of Soda Water is excessive.

The Aftermath

I had to mention that I was present on that infamous night at the Thistle Hotel. The Calling Card was received with grace.

Marg insists we bring the Mother back to Lenzie – the Hot Plates will a positive for her. Hector will be forced to try something else, the Lamb Rajasthani may well tempt me back.

Post Script

The Labadar turned out in my view to be a Deluxe Korma.  Add Ground Cashew Nuts and a bit more Chilli to my Korma Recipe et voila…

Posted in Rasoi Indian Restaurant | 3 Comments

Dumbarton – Delhi Darbar – Better by far

Posted on September 7, 2012 by Hector

Jamie and Dr. Alan convinced Hector that a Bier at The Sir Henry Bell was a good way to end the week. There was a promise of Curry too, but where? The Akash (Helensburgh) is reportedly closed though Hector was told it was open for business as usual. Apparently there is a sign on the door stating – Closed for refurbishment. The discovery of Illegal Aliens working in the kitchen and a Hefty Fine is a piece of information that has also come Hector’s way. Hopefully normal service will be resumed soon. Helensburgh needs the Akash.

The Delhi Darbar in Dumbarton is the Best Curry House, Anywhere – Jamie

Marg joined us after her Friday Coffee Ritual, a plan was hatched. If Jamie really thinks Delhi Darbar (151 Glasgow Road, Dumbarton, G82 1RH) is that good then Hector was make another visit. This has been a stop off point for many years after late nights at work. The Takeaway Pakora is legendary. My last visit was exactly one year ago today! – a Takeaway Lamb Karahi, it was nothing special. So Jamie’s credibility is on the line then.

Arriving around 21.00 the place was doing well. Has the décor been changed since my last sit down meal here which was certainly more than two years ago? With screens separating the tables and tablecloths, this venue has markedly different ambience from the Curry Outlets in Bradford where my last four Curry Experiences were recorded. Evidently, this is also one of the handful of genuinely Indian Restaurants in the West of Scotland.

A charming Doris took our drinks order, Water all round save one. Marg prevented me selecting the Lamb Karahi by spotting the Lamb Meti Gosht in the bottom right corner of a page. Lamb – Gosht? Redundancy. Meti – why not Methi? I asked for it to be served Dry and Medium with a Kick and no Capsicum. A Garlic and Coriander Nan felt like the perfect Accompaniment this evening, Hector is still Chapattid out. There was a suspicion that Doris had not recorded the order correctly, time would tell.

Marg chose the fated Lamb Karahi which one year ago failed to impress. She included Chapattis which were available at an acceptable 60p – why pay for Chapattis? Dr Alan went for Kashmiri Chicken with Peshwari Nan and two Chapattis. How much Bread can a man eat – well he is a youngster. Jamie who has been eating here all his life selected the Achari Chicken Tikka with Special Rice and a Chapatti. Chicken?

Poppadoms and Onion Chutney were brought to the table, Complimentary I believe. The Onion was in massive chunks, strange.

Who ordered the Meti Gosht?

Doris returned to check on my order. I suspect the No Capsicum was followed too closely by the Coriander and Garlic Nan as she wrote it. Good to check. Methi, Coriander, the lot please.

The wait was within acceptable parameters. A raised stand would house three of the Mains, Jamie’s was chucked on top of his Rice before Hector could take the ritual photos – he will learn. The Methi Gosht looked the part, there was hope. Dr Alan’s Kashmiri looked to have substance. The remaining Curry dishes were Red – ugh! Food Colouring is necessary, it can also affect the flavour, to its detriment.

Everyone got tore in except Hector who was minus a Nan. I had to smile, for once.  With Peshwari and piles of Chapattis on the table, I was offered some to get me going. I suspected the Nan had never made the order pad. I attracted the attention of a Different Doris and the Coriander and Garlic Nan was presented – it was obviously fresh from the Tandoori Oven and was perfection. The thicker parts were cooked through, the Coriander covering was a stand out, a good choice.The Lamb in both dishes was served in large pieces, perhaps this observation was a counterpoint to the classic Bradford small-cuts. Marg and Hector both found the Lamb to be chewy then it dawned on us, this had to be Tikka Lamb – why?

 The Meti Gosht was under the Chef’s Specials as I recall it it, there was no mention of Tikka. Tender Lamb in Curry please.

The Masala in my Meti Gosht I recorded as good to very good but certainly not in the Wow category. This however is easily the best Curry I have ever eaten in Dumbarton.

Marg found her Lamb Karahi to be Rich in flavour with a Kick. The Coriander was to the fore and enjoyed. I was able to sample it at the end of my meal, it was bland in comparison to my much better dish.

Dr. Alan described his Kashmiri Chicken as being Creamy and Gentle on the Palate.   I had to tell him that the Recipe for his dish is on this very website.  The Peshwari Nan was described as Supple, how Dr. Alan thought he would eat his Chapattis too I will never know.  In the end the surplus Bread went in a Doggy Bag. This did mean that he left some of his Curry enabling Hector to review another dish. The Kashmiri was Spicy and not over sweet, in fact I found it very pleasant. Ahmed, the Islamabad Curryspondent remarked that I might end up eating Chicken Karahi, no chance, but this meal was very pleasant. Marg should have had this.

Jamie stated that he had Good Achari and Good Chicken. Both were tasty and there was a good Meat to Masala ratio.

We had not been served a  Soup Masala, a significant positive. The sneaky serving of Lamb Tikka was a negative as is the persistent use of Red Food Colouring.

The Bill

 £48.60. This is excellent value and included one pint of a Cold, Yellow and Fizzy Drink that was hardly touched – initially.

The Aftermath

The Calling Card was left with little ceremony.

Marg and Hector were more than halfway home, the others jumped on a train from the nearby Dumbarton East Station.

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Bradford – Sunrise – A New Bradford Curry Experience

Posted on September 2, 2012 by Hector

After a day watching the Bradford Rugby and Football Teams come a cropper, Ricky was back his his normal self, he had Lunchtime Curry on his mind. The Sunrise Restaurant (6 New Otley Rd, Bradford, BD8 0RP) is a Buffet Venue which is popular with the Asian Community. Ricky had described a limited range of dishes on offer but was convinced I would find something to excite the palate. Ricky drove towards the East End of the City and we found a space in the car park. People were arriving for a wedding in the main Function Suite adjacent to the Restaurant.

We were allocated Table 2, four Diners were already in situ. We had timed our arrival to perfection as some of the dishes were still being put out.

The Bill

£7.50. Ricky was shocked, it was £6.00 on his previous visit. We would be limited to ninety minutes of eating it said on the flag on the table. Who can eat that much?

The Buffet

Onion and Potato Pakora – said the sign, very specific. I took a single large piece, one Samosa and two Lamb Seekh Kebabs. The Salads and Dips were across the room. I am convinced the Pakora had more than a hint of Cinnamon, interesting. The tactic was not to fill up with Starters.

I ignored Lamb Pilau, Chicken Biryani and a Chicken Curry and concentrated on three potentially satisfying dishes. The Handi Gosht had copious pieces of Mutton swimming in a classic 1960s Masala, Oily and Red. By sieving one was able to avoid excessive Masala and leave behind the bones. Yes, this was Lamb on-the-bone. A Mixed Vegetable Handi would provide the Interesting Vegetable, I took Cauliflower and Potato. The final selection had me salivate further in anticipation. Here was a tureen of Curried Chana Daal, the very dish I had enjoyed so much in Europe this summer and had never seen in any Glasgow Curry Café. It may be on the menu in some restaurants but is it dark and brown with a hint of yoghurt? Having eaten enough Chapattis for one weekend I took a small spoon of Rice from a tureen labelled Zarda.

Spot The Cherry!

The Lamb was as tender as Lamb can be, the taste of the Lamb was to the fore, excellent. The Masala was in the classic style, a good old fashioned Curry. I was impressed. The Vegetable Handi had more of a kick than the Meat, the combination worked well.

The Chana Daal was exactly as I had hoped for. I could not eat this Dry, Bitter-Sweet flavoured dish as a Main Course but then I am in early days. The Rice had a sweetness, I then spotted Glacé Cherries. The Rice with the Chana Daal worked well together. We then realised that Zarda on the right of the array was in with the Desserts, I had the Pudding Rice dish. Wot me worry? It worked.

Ricky tried everything, I was happy to top up the plate with more of the same. Enough already.

Dessert #2

Ricky appeared with a plate of something Orange, it was the Gajar Ka Halwa, a Carrot based Dessert. He had hoped it would be on offer. I had to try it, Hector eat Dessert and it isn’t Kofta Palak? The term Halwa is so similar to Arabic Halva, I cannot stand Halva.

Gajar Ka Halwa served warm is like a Carrot Sponge Cake, it was sweet but truly brilliant. What is happening? Starters and Dessert, Dessert? I believe Marg and Tracey could come and eat this Carrot Creation and get their full £7.50’s worth.

The Sunrise is simple food served well. I would definitely return here, but then for a £1 more one can have the best Bradford Curry possible at our regular haunts.

The Aftermath

The car park was in chaos. People were trying to get in, there was no space. People could not get out, we were those people. Still people wanted in, idiots.

The A65, even with the Sunday Drivers cruising at 40mph proved to be a more efficient route home than driving passed Bolton and Bury along the M62 and M621. I tend to drive back from Yorkshire via Settle, in future it will be my preferred route south.

England needs a Motorway that goes from the North-West in a South-Easterly direction – parallel to the Carlisle-Settle Railway?

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