Venison Curry and Vogon Poetry

Posted on June 8, 2012 by Hector

Tonight’s Curry was a late affair. [Stan.TB] met Hari, proprietor of the Punjabi Charing Cross (157-159 North St, Glasgow, G3 7DA) yesterday and was informed that another Venison Curry was being prepared for today. Lord Clive of Crawley was due to arrive at the Bon Accord around 21.00 this evening, a pub strategically located next door to one of Glasgow’s foremost Curry Houses. Hector and Marg would meet up after a visit to the Theatre Royal.

Vogon Poetry, any man who can eat a Vindaloo can take it…

Glasgow hosted the first night of the touring company performing the Radio version of Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy. With Simon Jones as Arthur Dent and Mark Wing-Davey as himself, sorry Zaphod Beeblebrox. Billy Boyd was The Book, but the star of the evening for me was Philip Pope as Musical Director and all round contributor. The Chap playing the part of Slartibartfast looked very much like Terry Duckworth, it couldn’t be? And I cannot find a full cast list anywhere.

By the time we reached the Bon Accord, [Stan.TB] and Dr. Rick had already been next door to enjoy the Venison Curry. We were advised that last orders would be at 23.30, and so with five minutes to spare, Lord Clive and Hector took their usual seats in the Punjabi.

There was a new waiter and so we had to confirm the Venison and await the Complementary Popadoms and Onion Chutney. An Aloo Gobi Side dish felt appropriate as the Venison comes with no Interesting Vegetable. Clive opted for a Keema Nan, Hector the customary Chapattis.

Ram made an appearance, we thought we were the lone diners, however there was a private function downstairs and this was where he and Hari were focusing their efforts. When Ram realised we had ordered the Venison he went downstairs to the Kitchen to supervise- a nice touch.

The Venison Curry looked immense when set before us. Once again it was on-the-bone and the Masala was dark and thick. One cannot go wrong making a Venison Curry.

Clive tore in, Hector was more tentative. I appeared to have more bone slivers judging by the small pile accumulating on the plate. Clive was warned to be careful.

The Keema Nan was something else, of Alishan proportions Clive stated. Ram appeared to given the customary mid meal check-up: ‘How are the Chapattis?’ he asked. Now this is a strange question to ask, where was he coming from? He had read my report on the extortionate price charged for Chapattis in Aberdeen last weekend – this was a wind up. ‘Far too cheap!’ was my eventual reply.

The Aloo Gobi was a welcome distraction to the intensity of the flavour from the Venison. This slightly fragrant Side will be ordered again. Clive and I both found ourselves sucking on bones between dipping our respective breads. The Keema Nan was full of what looked like Donner. Clive was struggling, no London portions here. The Venison was not seasoned to the limit as the last serving had been. The Chef has found the balance.

Hari appeared at the end of our Diningfest. He remarked that [Stan.TB] and DR. Rick had been earlier and that people were buying the Venison. Word of mouth appears to be working in Hari’s favour. My suggestion that he prints a new menu did not go down well. What about a Daily Specials insert as is the custom in European Restaurants? The Blackboard on the pavement had apparently been wiped clean in the rain.

The Bill

£40.75. Now this is more than the norm but I suggested to Hari in the original discussion over this dish that he would inevitably have to charge more (£13.95) and that he should not compromise on the size of portion served. I wish one of my favourite outlets in Tradeston would take this on board.

The Aftermath

Hari sat with us until it was time for our bus. He has another job outwith the catering industry, what a man.

Posted in [Punjabi Charing Cross] | Comments Off on Venison Curry and Vogon Poetry

Garden Party + Curry-Heute

Posted on June 4, 2012 by Hector

For the second time in a week, Marg and Hector were invited to eat Curry in a Domestic Setting.  Yvonne was under no pressure at all (aye right!) after the wonder of Zora’s cooking at Chez Khan last Wednesday. As a follow up to last week’s historic evening, the absent Sister – Kas –  had been in touch stating her regret at missing the invited Currynaughts.  We dropped in to introduce ourselves en route this lunchtime at Stalks and Stems (Shawlands, Glasgow) and may well have more to report on this in future.

As the Photo shows, the Ladies were taking the day very seriously.  I knew Craig would be in shorts and was determined that both pairs of the whitest legs in Glasgow should be on display.

Craig and Marg had a solitary Bacon Roll as is now the custom at our Garden Parties.  Hector could not refuse a second with the famous Stornoway Blackpudding.  Proof, if required, that Hector does not eat Curry 24/7.  With clouds blocking out the Sun for much of the afternoon it was deemed safe to sit outside with uncovered Pates and enjoy the delight of imported Deutsche Festbier.  Tucher, Augustiner, Hofbräu, Spaten and Löwenbräu (Buttenheim) were consumed at a leisurely pace.  The main event of the day was the serving of Yvonne’s Curry.

Mini Poppadoms were an interesting variation.  Yvonne’s own Onion Chutney takes no prisoners.  Lime Pickle too, more indulgence.  When it was time to declare the Starters to be over, Hector refused to let the leftover Onion Chutney leave the table.  A compliment.

I was aware that Yvonne had found a recipe for Butter Chicken, Marg’s favourite.  Hector tried this once and the results were poor.  From the appearance of the Bowl set before Marg, this was going to be good.  Yvonne related the saga of having to sieve the ingredients to create the required texture.  The proof was in the eating.  That there was none left at the end says it all.  The required thick and Creamy texture had been achieved.  There was a Citrus background flavour coming through.  This was a major success.  Hector sampled only a part of the dish, there was something else in store for Yvonne and I.  Craig and Marg devoured the Butter Chicken.  Perhaps the recipe may make an appearance one day in the above drop down list.

I was told that Yvonne and I would be having a Lamb Curry based on my own recipe.  This was not the whole story.  A larger Bowl of Dark Curry was brought to the table seconds after the Butter Chicken – Venison!  Our Lancaster trip was the day after Marg, [Stan.TB], Bradford’s very own Mr. Holden and Hector had enjoyed our first ever restaurant served Venison Curry at the Punjabi Charing Cross (Glasgow).  Yvonne had spotted Venison in the Lancaster Market and no doubt purchased some whilst I was away on my fruitless search for a Lancaster Curry.

As has been written, Venison must be the ultimate meat to Curry.  Yvonne had cooked this yesterday and let it lie overnight.  The strong flavours from the meat had permeated the Masala and vice versa, exactly as Curry should be.  The Masala had been cooked until it had evaporated down to the magnificent texture preferred by Hector.  The Curry was not over-spiced and so Craig became interested.  Marg and Craig  had the best of both Worlds.  Craig surpassed himself.  Hector took a portion, then another, and another.  The perfect compliment to a Chef is to eat all the food.  I tried, but realised that Excess in Moderation would be the compromise.  Yvonne can cook for us anytime.

The Aftermath

The evening continued indoors.  Craig struggled, he cannot eat Curry and follow it with Bier.  This may further answer a question I was asked last Wednesday about the origins of the Scottish Late Night Curry.  Curry follows Bier without a problem.

Chapattis!

Stick to Chapattis instead of filling one’s stomach with Rice and it is possible to follow Curry with Bier, as Hector proves most Saturday afternoons.

Posted in Home Cooked (by others) | Comments Off on Garden Party + Curry-Heute

Aberdeen’s Monsoona – Healthy Cuisine, Hard on the Wallet

Posted on June 2, 2012 by Hector

Graeme, Marg and Hector had dined at this locus a few years back.  The venue has  been re-launched in the last year and is under new ownership: Monsoona (20 Bridge Street,  Aberdeen, AB11 6JJ).

We had a choice of venues; Nazma we agree is probably the best venue in Aberdeen with Nawaabs not far behind.  The Jewel in the Crown may have peaked and is in decline comparably.  These were our considerations as Derek texted asking for advice as to where to dine after his visit to the Aberdeen Beerfest.  We were not there; nothing on the list had enticed us.

The first thing Hector spotted on the Menu was how good value the Starters are.  The mainstream ones were around the £4.00 mark with Fish being a Pound or so dearer.  Hector contemplated a Starter until Marg drew my attention to the price of Chapattis.

£2.35 for a Chapatti – they must be kidding!

Graeme has resided in Aberdeen for over a decade and has come to accept what he refers to as Aberdeen Prices.  But £2.35 for a Chapatti?  As regular readers of this Blog will know – up to four Chapattis are issued as inclusive with a Main Course at many Bradford venues.  60p is my idea of a fair price, £1.00 at a stretch but this is extracting the…

Had we not ordered Rice we could have spent £9.40 on four Chapattis.   When Mr. Holden and also  The Bradford Curry Blog read this they will be bemused.  Somehow a Stuffed Paratha at £3.45 felt like better value.  Hector is losing the plot.  We ordered two plus a Vegetable and Cashew Nut Rice at the same price.

The Waiter asked if we wished Poppadoms.  These were priced on the menu at 85p each, we ordered three.   Four came, plus the Dips, £3.40.  In many venues such as last Sunday at the Delhi Darbar (Bishopbriggs), they were priced on the menu but did not appear on the Bill.  Poppadoms tend to be free in most of the places I dine these days.

In for a Penny… £4.65 a pint…

Graeme is one of the few co-diners with whom Hector will have a Bier – so two pints of Cobra were summoned.  This would put another £9.30 on to the Bill. Marg’s Soft Drink was a more modest £3.25!

We have not reached the Main Courses yet

I could have ordered some Starters and Tap Water, and then left.  Is Hector more of an Aberdonian than the locals?

One can speculate as to the size of a Starter portion given the price of the Mains.  Graeme went for the top of the range Tiger Mix which promised a variety of meats.  Marg went for a safe sounding Lamb Kashmir Rose.  Now it was Hector’s turn and this is where this report does take a more positive outlook.

I was torn between the Naga Zhaal and the Lamb Karahi so I asked our new Waiter for advice.  On describing my preferences he pointed at the dish with the original moniker – Naga Zhaal.  I was informed it was sweet and so I asked if they had Fresh Methi.  They had Dry Methi.  I asked for the dish to be served Dry, with Extra Methi and without the dreaded Capsicum.  The Waiter was most obliging.

Marg’s Kashmir Rose came with large pieces of tender Lamb and Mushrooms, the latter she was not expecting.  This was regarded as a bonus.  There was a definite Kick.

Graeme announced that he would definitely be ordering this dish again.  He had tender Lamb, Chicken and Prawns to choose from.  The Honey gave the dish a sweetness which he clearly enjoyed.

The very expensive Accompaniments went down a treat.  The Paratha were too hot to touch on arrival at the table – this is a welcome feature as they would hopefully retain their edge throughout the meal.  The Rice had a suitable quota of Cashew Nuts.

The Naga Zhaal as ordered by Hector probably bore little resemblance to that described on the Menu.  I had avoided the promised sweetness by having the Green Peppers withheld, the Extra Methi would take care of the rest.  The photos show just how Dry my dish was served in comparison to the others.  The Chef had done exactly as I had asked.  I was feeling better.

Monsoona make a feature of advertising that they serve – authentic healthy Indian cuisine.  They are constantly reducing the amount of oil, salt and sugar they use in their recipes without compromising on the taste of their food…

My version of the Naga Zhaal was a fine Curry, above average.  It lacked Seasoning; therefore the full flavours of the ingredients had not emerged. You cannot cut back on the Salt and expect to make an outstanding Curry. The Venison Curry I was treated to last month at the Punjabi Charing Cross (Glasgow), and the Home-Cooked Karela on Wednesday this week, were both highly seasoned and therefore full of flavour.  Since the Calder Agreement of 1998, Hector has not added Salt to any meal set before him.  I eat my food as it arrives on the table.

The Bill

 £61.15.   Six of us ate the Akash (Helensburgh) two nights previously for £77.65 and this included Starters.  Tonight we were a party of three. The three of us ate at the Lahore Karahi (Aberdeen) last year for £35.

The Aftermath

The Waiter accepted the Calling Card graciously.  We told him we had enjoyed the food.  The Bank Balance did not.  The Monsoona website claims the venue is value for money…

I would consider a return visit, but only if the price of the Sundries was at least halved, and it would be Tap Water next time.  Maybe I should stay away.

Derek and Margaret arrived on our recommendation just as we were departing, I must discover how they got on.

Posted in Monsoona | 1 Comment

Variations at the Akash – Helensburgh

Posted on May 31, 2012 by Hector

This evening’s Curry-Heute at the Akash (45A Sinclair Street,  Helensburgh, G84 8TG)  was postponed from Tuesday. The new Helensburgh Wetherspoons aka The Sir Howard Young (sic) failed to open on the advertised date, fortunately the Akash is reliable.  I do not think in thirty years I have ever found it closed when in the Curry Mood.

[Stan.TB], Eleanor and Hector were the three Currynaughts singing songs of the wonders of last evening’s extravaganza on the Southside, where Shahed’s Mum – Zora had entertained us so magnificently.  The Akash may not set the heather on fire these days but it is above average and does have its moments.  Jonathan was making his inaugural visit, Howard and Tracey are almost regulars now.

As is written, this is one venue where Hector always orders a Starter, the unique Chicken Chat.  [Stan.TB] cannot resist Seekh Kebab these days and Eleanor ordered what Marg believes to be the best Pakora served in any restaurant.  (After last night’s Superlative Home-Cooked offerings I have to be careful.)  Howard sneaked in a Fish Pakora too.

Tracey was here for the Makhani which she ordered with Chicken (eh?) – extra Cheese and extra Hot, seriously.  Jonathan wisely followed the Hector publicity over the Lamb version of the Makhani.  Egg Rice was his chosen accompaniment.  I decided that if extra was the theme of the day then I would order extra Methi with my Lamb Makhani.  I was in the mood for Rice and so the Vegetable version was ordered.  Eleanor went almost traditional and opted for the Methi Balti Gosht.  This is the Lady who used to eat nothing but Chicken until taken under the Wing of Hector. Coconut Rice was deemed to suit this dish.  Howard too ordered a Lamb Balti – Lareli(?)  [Stan.TB], with  his customary need to be different, had the Lamb Bhuna Saag and his now customary Chapattis.

Lamb Balti – Lareli

Howard’s choice turned out to be the poorest.  It was disturbingly Red due to the high Tomato content and he considered the meat to be tough.  After his not unpleasant Fish Pakora which he described as thin and sweet, and different from normal Fish Pakora, this may not have such a memorable visit.

*

*

Chicken Makhni

Tracey too came a cropper. She loved the extra Cheese but the extra Hot request had created a dish beyond her levels of tolerance.  Tracey admitted that she got exactly what she asked for and only has herself to blame.  ‘At least I have my lunch.’ was the positive conclusion as she had her leftovers wrapped up.

*

*

Lamb Makhni

Jonathan found the Cheese in the Lamb Makhani gave an interesting texture but did not affect the flavour.  He wondered if the near Vindaloo experience was the cause of this – another Hot Curry!

*

*

*

 

Methi Balti Gosht

Eleanor felt she was eating a retro-Curry, a Nostalgia Fest.  The Lady left some Lamb whish she boasts she never does.  The Pakora had been a huge portion, the Coconut Rice felt like a double portion compared to that served in some venues.  Eleanor admitted she must still be full after the vast quantities consumed last evening at Maison Khan.

*

*

Lamb Bhuna Saag 

[Stan.TB] devoured his Seekh Kebab in seconds.  Whilst he found the Lamb in the Saag Gosht to be tender, he would have preferred more Spice and even Methi to enhance the experience.  The Quiet man may order a different dish from Hector at times, however we both look for exactly the same thing in a Curry!

*

*

Lamb Makhani

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Hector has eaten more Curry at the Akash than he could ever calculate.  He got it bang on.  The Spinach  and the Cheese makes this Makhani a standout.  Both Tracey’s and Jonathan’s version were far too Soup-like for my tastes.  The Spinach guarantees a thick Masala.

One cannot tell in the presence of the Spinach how much, if any, extra Methi was added, however this meal went down a treat.  The Vegetable Rice was also the correct accompaniment. The Lamb was indeed tender as reported by the other Currynaughts. Overall the quantity was perfect; however, I had included a Starter so I may not have felt this otherwise.

The Rice and Breads are worthy accompaniments at the Akash.

The Bill

£77.65.  Given the Starters and the Soft Drinks, this is excellent value between six diners.

The Aftermath

The Holiday Weekend looms, but there is another day of work…

Posted in [Akash] | Comments Off on Variations at the Akash – Helensburgh

Shahed: “My Mum would like to cook for you…”

Posted on May 30, 2012 by Hector

Hector first visited Shahed’s  (78-80 Union St, Glasgow, G1 3QS) in January 2012.  It was at the end of April that Shahed himself contacted Hector and issued the invitation to sample his Mother’s cooking.  This is not an offer that comes along every day, indeed it is the first ever example of this occurring in Hector’s lifetime.   We arranged a date – today – and I was permitted to bring three fellow diners.  What made the invitation all the more outstanding that it was not to be a case of The Mother coming to the Restaurant to cook; we were invited to the Family Home – The House of Khan!

Marg of course had to be included, Eleanor is now firmly a supporter of the philosophy that ‘Everyday is a Good Day to Eat Curry’. My most regular Curry Companion – Dr Stan could not be excluded. We shall restore him to his Sunday name for this auspicious occasion.  Today is also Dr Stan’s Birthday, not that he let on at all, a very modest Chap.  We made our rendezvous at Partick and Marg disappeared to buy a Boquet.

Shahed sadly had to call off at the last minute.

We set off to the South Side for our evening of Domestic Curry.  We would as it turned out be entertained by Shahed’s sisters Liz and Shaheen and of course – Zora, the Mother and  Chef who was ably aided by Kenny.

To invite complete strangers to one’s home is certainly noteworthy, it became apparent that there is an Extended Family all of whom like nothing better than to drop in and see Zora, and be fed of course.

We were told the story of how they started out as possibly one of Glasgow’s first, if not the first, dedicated Curry Takeaway Shops.  Shahed was the Prodigy Son after whom the business was named, and yes we did get to see the Baby Pictures of him and his brother Zahid.  All of the family had worked at some time in one of the soon to be two Takeaway Shops.

When we were taken through to the Dining Room there was a gasp – a mountain of Starters, in fact three mountains!  Assorted Pakora and Samosa was piled high on both sides of a platter containing enough Chicken Tandoori to feed the street.  In the same platter was Bombay Potato.  The customary pink Yogurt Dip was arranged around the table plus a triple tray of Special Dips.  Blended with Coriander, we were warned that they were Spicy. 

With Shaheen and Liz at opposite ends of the table, the six of us began the Ritual Feed.  This Banquet has been prepared for us, it was hard to believe.  We  instantly realised that if we did the Starters justice we would never manage the Main Course.

Such was the warmth of the welcome we were all at ease, and so it was tacitly accepted that we were in for a lengthy feed.   Zora and Kenny did not sit with us, they were the dutiful serving staff.  Zora was proud of her food and rightly so.  The freshest of Starters, homemade Chicken Tandoori, who else can boast this?  How can a Potato be made to contain so much flavour?

Everything was wonderful and there was still more to come

Two Bowls of Curry were brought into the room, one on the-bone, one off.  A large plate of Vegetable Rice was also set before us, a Salad Bowl too. There was more.  Hector had been promised Karela.  Just how much can one man be indulged?  A special container which keeps Chapattis warm and fresh was also introduced.  Once again, how could we do this justice – we did!

The Curry was in the Shorva style.  As the family originate from Pakistan near the Afghanistan Border this was indeed traditional cooking.  Dr Stan and I tore into the Lamb on-the-bone, the Ladies tackled the Boneless version which also had Potato.  Inevitably I tried both.  The Lamb was cooked to perfection, the spices were subtle.  The Rice felt an appropriate companion.

The Bowl of Karela was set down beside Hector.  Liz pronouced Karela differently. She was intrigued as to how I discovered this Vegetable.  The New Karahi Palace was mentioned.  Liz produced an uncooked sample for Eleanor and Dr Stan to see.  Shaheen described the complications in cooking this Bitter Vegetable.  Tomato had been included in the mix, this proved to be significant. 

The Karela was outstanding.  Thick, dry and well seasoned.  Karrah was not a term Shaheen was familiar with. Chapattis of course had to be employed to enjoy this properly.

Alternating between the traditional Shorva and the extremes of the Karela, this made for a perfect meal.  The Karela had a fruity flavour too – the Tomato – Shaheen explained. 

Only the Punjabi Charing Cross has ever served Hector – Karela – cooked in the traditional  style.  Here I am enjoying this home-cooked creation at the House of Khan.  Pinch me.

Shahed phoned to check all was going well, it was of course.

Marg and Eleanor had been sated.  Dr Stan (no Photo for once!) and Hector are well practiced eaters of large volumes of Curry.  We ate on, we could eat Curry for Scotland, perhaps one day we shall.  Eventually I had to wave the white flag.  The Quiet Man too admitted defeat.

And there’s more…

Cheese Cakes – plural, now appeared, and a  large bowl of Fruit Salad.  If I had room for Cheese Cake I wold have eaten more Curry.  The Fruit Salad was an excellent finish.

We retired once more to the Lounge.  Baby pictures of Shahed and Zahid with their Father were shown – I didn’t dare take a photo.  By now we had discovered that Liz had worked some years ago with Eleanor’s Dad. 

We gave our profound thanks to Zora and her Family then took our leave with an invitation to return ringing in our ears.  The House of Khan should be placed firmly on the map – but of course it is by invitation only!

The Aftermath

We took the long way home via the City Centre.  Marg and Eleanor sussed why I was taking such a roundabout route through Glasgow.  We had to call by Shahed’s in Union Street to thank the man who planted the seeds for this evening.

Thank you Zora, Shahed, Zahid, Shaheen, and Liz.  One day I might even get to meet Kas.

Posted in Home Cooked (by others), [Shahed's (City Centre)] | 1 Comment

Half a Million Clicks on Curry-Heute

Posted on May 27, 2012 by Hector

Today, Sunday, May 27 @22.20 (GMT) the Curry-Heute Website passed

One Half Million Clicks 

In no way does Hector suggest that half a million different  people have read his increasingly popular coverage of  Curry Consumption in  Glasgow, Scotland and the Wider World.  As I understand it, this is a measure of the activity on this Website.  I know I have my regular Readers and regular Commentators.  I thank them else this website would simply be self-gratification.  I would like to think that by now there is enough coverage of the Curry Scene for people to consider this a reliable source of information.

It has taken two years to achieve this, acknowledgement has to be given to Hungry House.  Since reaching their Shortlist as Curry Lover of the Year 2011 the number of visits has soared.  I find myself Shortlisted again in 2012.  One year I might actually win?

There should be a Curry Report (Heute) Today to celebrate, after all Hector is in Yorkshire this weekend a few miles from Bradford, his second Curry Home.  Alas, work commitments find me in charge of a group of Weans; Hector is in effect a Prisoner until tomorrow at Malham Tarn Field Centre.

There will be no Curry until Tuesday (Akash, Helensburgh) and Wednesday (Shahed’s, Glasgow).  The Wednesday Curry-Heute Blog promises to be something Special.  Meanwhile enjoy the landscape of Malham and Kingsdale.

This would be a great time for The Bradford Curry Blogger to come to the rescue…

Posted in Odds and Sods | Comments Off on Half a Million Clicks on Curry-Heute

Ashoka Shak + Iron Sky over Paisley

Posted on May 23, 2012 by Hector

A trip to Paisley midweek?  And on towards Linwood?  The movie Iron Sky had its general release today.  Today was also the last day of its showing in the UK. Today or bust.

There had to be a Curry-Heute to commemorate the day.  Howard was in tow, he is the only Friend of Hector who would appreciate such an instant classic – the Movie, not the Curry as it turned out.

Part of the Harlequin Chain, The Ashoka Shak (Phoenix Leisure Park, Linwood Road, Paisley, PA1 2AB) is adjacent to the Phoenix Showcase Cinema, and opposite the former Linwood Car Factory site. The Proclaimers song  made it immortal: ‘Linwood no more…’. The Ashoka is part of the award winning Curry Chain centred in the West of Scotland, only their Bearsden outlet has featured before in Curry-Heute.

It was sunny today in Glasgow, to avoid the sun in our eyes (I believe it was the same Sun shining on Paisley) we sat near a Doris dining with Five Weans.  Fortunately they were waiting for their Ice Cream.  In the West of Scotland on the occasional day it is Hot some go for Curry, some eat Ice Cream – the fortunate have both.

We spotted three dishes that might appear on our well honed preference list.  Two had Capsicum – well one could ask…  Hector could not ignore the calling of Lamb with more Lamb.   The Ra Ra Gosht was described on the menu as: tender pieces of lamb and lamb mince cooked in a tarka masala base with garlic, ginger and coriander.  No mention of Capsicum.  The waiter was helpful and identified this as the Dry Curry of the three.  Ra Ra Gosht it was.

Howard considered the Lamb Desi: tender lamb on or off the bone cooked with fresh onion, tomatoes, ginger, garlic,  green chilli and coriander and an abundance of onions and chopped capsicum. The Karahi Bhuna was therefore dismissed, the Boneless Desi was the choice.

We had just selected the two most expensive Curry Dishes on the Menu – clever.

Two Chapattis (£1.10 each) for Hector and a Garlic and Coriander Nan for Howard were the Accompaniments.  By the time our Curry appeared the Ice Cream had been served and The Weans had gone – Bliss!

Both Dishes received the Thumbs Up on presentation, this was not Soup, and no Capsicum had been injured in the preparation of either meal. The Ra Ra Gosht was a very thick looking Feast.  The Lamb Mince occupied the place in the Masala where Onion might typically dominate. The texture of the Lamb was superb – this was melt in the mouth tender.  The Chapattis scooped up the Lamb Mince with ease.  This dish was fun to eat.  The portion size was perfect.  Occasionally a blast from the past emerged in terms of flavour but this is where it did fall down.  Hector knew how it could be improved and would tell anyone who would listen – or read this Blog Entry.

The Lamb Desi was Spicier than the Ra Ra Gosht, I know – I was permitted a sample.  Howard felt it still lacked a Kick.  He also felt that the Masala had not influenced the flavour of the Lamb or vice versa.  On occasions like this I tend to conclude that they have met for the first time on the Plate.  Surely not here? Not in this well respected Chain?  However, this is pretty much what I wrote when I visited the Bearsden branch.

Every morsel of Curry and Bread was consumed.  The Chapattis were somewhat wet compared to the norm.

The Bill

£28.90.  This is slightly above the average for the West of Scotland but our selections were from the Specials part of the Menu.  The Chapattis had also mysteriously turned into Tandoori Roti at £1.25 each – sneaky.

The Aftermath

The Calling card was presented to Mein Host – he took it in good heart and stated that he hoped the review would be good.  I took the opportunity to give him my not so humble opinion as to how the Curry could have been better, i.e. suit me!  The Curry was not Karrah.  More Seasoning, more Spice and definitely Fresh Methi would have hit the spot.  The Curry was thoroughly pleasant but we know where to have better.  There are advantages of going to venues regularly – they get to know how to prepare what you want.

Iron Sky

Nazis on the Moon, where else would you expect to find them? This was ninety minutes of madness; it is amazing that we find Nazis funny these days.

Fear not – Hector is not about to start a Movie Blog.

.

Posted in Ashoka Shak | 1 Comment

Bishopbriggs – The Delhi Darbar

Posted on May 20, 2012 by Hector

The Delhi Darbar (4 Woodhill Road,  Bishopbriggs, G64 1JL) was recommended to Hector some years ago by Scott who lives in this northern Glasgow Outpost.  This evening’s visit was Marg and Hector’s third to the Delhi Darbar, all have been on a Sunday and the previous two were on Mother’s Days. Curry Conveyor Days.

We arrived at 16.30, they had been open thirty minutes and already the car park had a dozen cars in it.  Our previous visits were on particularly busy days, but there must still be a Sunday afternoon Curry Kultur in this upper part of Auchinairn.   The customers kept coming, the place remained more than half-full – business here is good, there must be a reason.

It took quite some time to acclimatise to the subdued lighting.  Eventually I was able to actually see the Menu.  The décor is splendid with hanging features and a departure from the once normal flock wallpaper.

The Menu had Methi Gost (sic) under the Chicken Curry list, this was puzzling.  I was considering taking advice when Marg announced that she was having the Lamb Karahi – well that’s it then – two Lamb Karahi – without the dreaded Green Mushy Vegetable.  Rice was dismissed, let us eat the dish in the proper manner: three Chapattis (60p each) were the Accompaniments. 

Poppadoms, Onion Chutney and a Dip were brought to the table even though they did appear on the Menu as chargeable items.  A plate of Bombay Mix came too.

We recalled that on our first visit we had ordered Starters and then a Complimentary Started arrived too.  We have not made that mistake again.  Indeed just as we finished the last piece of Poppadom, a plate of  Chicken Wings was set before us.  These were Fresh and Spicy and fortunately Marg ate her share, else the Main Event would have suffered.

There was a decent gap between the Entrees and the arrival of the Karahi.  The Chaps were kept busy clearing up after the departed and bringing out a constant stream of food. 

When the two cast iron karahi dishes were set before us, the Redness was not that apparent in the ambient light. Marg thought the Masala to be excessive and so immediately ordered Pilau Rice.   Now if Marg though it wet…  Hector had hoped for something Dry and Brown, but here we go.

There was a very strong flavour of Pickle/Citrus, so any thoughts about blandness were dismissed.  Marg felt she was getting a lot of Ginger, I marveled at how the pieces of Chopped Fresh Coriander kept appearing even towards the end of the meal.  The Lamb was tender and there was certainly enough of it. This was a good Curry, I would not call it outstanding.  I wish I could recall what I had on my first visit some five years ago – that was outstanding.

The late Rice order arrived and changed the dimension of what we were eating.  By now we were well sated. 

The Bill

£19.30.  The unit cost of the Karahi was under £7.  With two soft drinks, the added Rice and all that was set before us at the start, this was quite a banquet for a very modest price. 

The Aftermath

The Calling Card was left at the bar but The Chaps were really too busy to engage.  I must ask Scott to find out if they still do the Dry Herb Lamb Curry that I enjoyed so much on Visit #1. Then I will definitely be back.

Posted in Delhi Darbar | Comments Off on Bishopbriggs – The Delhi Darbar

Venison Curry at The Punjabi Charing Cross

Posted on May 16, 2012 by Hector

Mr.  Holden is in town!  The Man from Bradford needed a Curry to match the quality that he is served in The Curry Capital.  The venue was dictated by a conversation Hector had last week with Raj and Hari  at the Punjabi Charing Cross (157-159 North St  Glasgow G3 7DA).  They have been promoting Goat as an alternative to Lamb in recent weeks.  I raised the possibility of Venison.

Only once before have I tasted Venison Curry and it was home cooked by Hector himself!  Mr. Holden was slightly apprehensive for reasons I could not fathom – the man eats Sheep Brain’s Curry, and worse than that –  Liver…

Marg and Hector made their rendezvous with Mr. Holden and [Stan.TB] at the Bon Accord and walked the huge distance to the Punjabi.  It must be five paces.  Two French customers were the only people present as we arrived but a table of four Chaps appeared halfway through.  Hopefully business is looking up for this outstanding Curry House.

Starters, this is unusual in an outing for [Stan.TB] and I.  Marg likes to share.  Haggis Pakora was mentioned, it is not a joke but we had to get the Englishman to try it.  A Seekh Kebab and a Fish Pakora also found their way into the order.

Four portions of Venison Curry was the order.  Chapattis and Roti  in an elegant sufficiency too.

 

We were kept amused by the Complementary Poppadoms and Onion Chutney, Marg requested some Mango Chutney and it came instantly.  The Fish Pakora was very fresh and the powdered Spice  gave it a real kick.  Mr. Holden thoroughly enjoyed his share of the Haggis Pakora – Och aye the Noor….  The Seekh Kebab disappeared without coment.

Bambi Curry

A solitary portion was brought to the table.  The portion was seen to be substantial.  A bone stuck up in the middle of the mass of meat.  The pieces were cut quite large.  This looked a real treat.  The remaining three portions trickled up to the dais along with the Breads.  This was a stunning Curry!  The Masala was more plentiful than my normal Gurmeet.  It was thick and oily and was a bit of a throwback.  The Venison was so tender, there was little evidence of Fat in any of the portions.  The meat is porous and so takes in the flavour of the Spices.  Mr. Holden was convinced that this had been cooked yesterday and left to soak in all the flavour, however this is the very nature of Venison.  The Venison then has a payback and gives its own flavour back to the Masala. 

Karrah!

The meal was very well seasoned, in fact to the point of being on the limit.  A sheer delight.  I doubt that anyone who does not prefer Lamb to Poultry would ever enjoy it.  Venison must be the ultimate meat to Curry – unless someone knows anything different…

The Bill

£66.80.  At £11.90 per portion of Curry this was great value.  We expected to pay extra for this premium meat.  Given the portion size we did very well.

The Aftermath

Hari was thanked for setting this up.  Goat is now advertised on the hoarding outside the Punjabi.  How long before Venison makes another appearance?

Posted in [Punjabi Charing Cross] | Comments Off on Venison Curry at The Punjabi Charing Cross

Choudhury Indian Restaurant – Bedford

Posted on May 13, 2012 by Hector

Another day in Bedford, another Curry.  Hector was pleased that after the disappointment of the previous evening at the Alamin Tandoori, Howard and Tracey were up for a Curry Lunch before we set of to St. Alban’s with [Stan.TB] who does not feature in any of the Bedford Curry reviews, very strange.

The Choudhury Indian Restaurant (64 Tavistock Street,  Bedford, MK40 2RG) was evidently open at Noon.  Hector arrived first having walked the Trek down Foster Hill Road.  A Lancaster Bomber flew overhead, a good omen for a Curry?

Howard and Tracey joined me just after Noon by which time I had asked the Waiter which was the drier of the dishes between the Balti and the Karahi, he suggested the latter.  This would have been my dish of choice but Howard spotted Lamb Methi on the menu and gave way to me.  He ordered the Karahi on my recommendation.   The Karahi was offered in Tender Lamb or Lamb Tikka – so no confusion here.  A Saag Gosht was another possibility, in fact we were spoilt for choice.

For a modest £2.50 one could add from an array of Sides – the Potato Peas felt appropriate, this was my addition.

Tracey ordered the Ceylon Prawn dish.  A Garlic Nan and a Rice were ordered to share, Hector tried a new trick: one Chapatti and one Tandoori Roti.  Somebody sneaked in a Lager Shandy.

[Stan.TB] had called to verify our location.  He would eat later, here as it turned out.  He dropped by and took our photo, a nice man, sometimes.

The meals were presented by our ever so Charming Waiter.  Tracey was slightly put off by the abundance of Red, however the potent Spice warmed her and she only had positive things to say.  The Prawn content of the dish was remarkable, I too have never see so many Prawns in a Curry.  The Nan was also a standout, I am told.  Soft and Fresh, I too would find the Bread very satisfying.

Howard’s Karahi looks as if it is Chicken but as I was permitted a piece of his Lamb for sampling purposes, I am mystified by my own photo.  Howard found the dish to be medium strength and perfectly acceptable for a Sunday Lunch.

The Lamb Methi was very good, not outstanding.  Methi of course is one of Hector’s favourite Herbs and could not be resisted.  The Lamb was indeed Tender, as described.  Of course there was the Side, the Potato and Peas gave the meal an extra dimension – a sweeter flavour to dip into – very fine.  The portion was ample for the three of us to try.   Two Roti can be disappointment, the second tends to crisp too much.  The Roti was therefore devoured with the Chapatti as a superb follow on.  This worked a treat.

The Bill

£37.95.  Including the early morning Shandy.

Overall, the Three Diners left feeling very satisfied.

The Aftermath

We made our rendezvous with [Stan.TB] at the Railway Station and headed to St. Albans, another first, but no time for a Curry.

Posted in Choudhury | 2 Comments