Alamin Tandoori – Bedford

Posted on May 12, 2012 by Hector

Five of our party of six were up for a Curry-Heute.  [Stan.TB] had eaten a mass of Potato and Bits at the Corn Exchange.  We asked our taxi driver to recommend somewhere, he couldn’t.  He suggested that the Bedford Curry Houses are all pretty much at the same standard.  He did not invite us to go and eat at his Mother’s who is the best cook in the area, allegedly.

The Alamin Tandoori (51 Tavistock Street,  Bedford, MK40 2RF) is directly across the road from the Saffron where Hector had consumed a very impressive Lamb Balti for lunch. We were placed at a table for eight which gave us lots of space, a good start.  Five Poppadoms and Dips were requested, a solitary Shami Kebab completed the Starters.  This was for Lord Clive, who along with Lady Maggie is just back from India.  It would be interesting to see what they ordered.

Howard and Hector spotted the same dish as being the most likely one to satisfy our needs.  The Naganzi had three Chillis and was described as Tender Lamb in a special Naga Chilli Pickle and Exotic Spices with Spicy Texture and extremely Flavoured.  I checked with the Waiter that this would not be Soup and was positively assured.

Tracey chose the Gosht Pata which was again Tender Lamb with Roasted Onion and Cream.  Tracey enjoys a Creamy Curry, and Cheesy ones too for that matter.

Maggie had the closest dish to what she enjoyed in India – the Lamb Chops Special.  Clive ordered; wait for it, a Chicken Dansak.?

A couple of Nans were to be the Accompaniments along with Mushroom Rice.  Keema Rice was a new encounter and so two portions of this were added.  Hector would have a plate of Rice!

The rest of this report will split the company into those just back from India and those who recognize that Curry is a British invention best served in Glasgow and Bradford.  The Shami Kebab was made short work of.  Clive’s Chicken (no comment) Dansak was the classic Plate of Soup that the majority of The Friends of Hector cannot abide.  Clive accepted the Sweetness and described it as very nice.  One  can hardly expect a more erudite comment from somebody who orders a Chicken Curry.  Maggie got tore into her Lamb Chops.  A pile of Bones was all that was left, she was certainly satisfied, the Flavours had thoroughly permeated the Chops – of course ‘Yvonne would never have eaten like that…’

The three Visitors from Glasgow were not amused by what had been set before us.

Moments after starting my far too wet Naganzi the Waiter came over to make the customary check on our progress.  I had to ask if this was indeed Lamb.  Once again an English Curry House has served up Lamb Strips which is not possible for Tender Lamb.  I was told that the House does not serve Beef.

A second Waiter said the Lamb had been Marinated and Baked in a Clay Oven.  This was Tikka Lamb then, not the Tender Lamb that the menu clearly stated.  The Naganzi lived up to its Spice rating but there was no Flavour at all from the Masala.  None.  The Keema Rice was very Dry, not a bad thing as far as I am concerned, the Mince was well integrated, there was a hint of fruit – Flavour at last.  That I was finished the lot in a matter of minutes suggests that the overall portion was not generous.  I should have ordered the Khorai not the minimalist Plate of Soup.

Howard at least had Nan to spin out his meal.  We both concurred that if the menu says Tender Lamb, then that is what they should serve.

Meanwhile Tracey was disappointed that the Onions  had merely been sprinkled over the top of her Soup-like dish.  There was no evidence that the quoted Cream had been added either.  She too found the (Tender) Lamb to be unacceptable.

The Bill

£65.25.  This was well within acceptable parameters, but then three out of five of us had not been impressed.

The Aftermath

The Calling Card was presented and graciously received.  Wed Woses were presented to the Ladies.  Two Bedford Curry Experiences –one very good, one disappointing, perhaps there has to be a decider?

Posted in Alamin Tandoori | 1 Comment

Saffron – The First Ever Bedford Curry

Posted on May 12, 2012 by Hector

It is the weekend of the Bedford : Bamberg Spring Fest.  The Corn Exchange is hosting this great concept of bringing the  Bier of Bamberg to our shores.  Why it has taken Lord Clive three years to discover the existence of this event has yet to be established.  Bier-Traveller has an excellent account of the proceedings.

Last night Hector bade farewell to is travel companions and headed up The Broadway and Tavistock Street in the hope of securing his first ever Bedford Curry.  Yes, Bedford, not his beloved Bradford.  The Cluster of Curry venues along this half kilometre stretch of road would surely provide oodles of choice.  In the end it was established that all sitting in venues were closed by 12.30.  One waiter rolled his eyes when I asked for a table – I could not order a Takeaway as I was faced with a twenty minute walk into the unknown.  The Brickhill Rd Travelodge was somewhere to the North-East.

Rested but hardly refreshed, Hector and [Stan.TB] strolled down Foster Hill Rd at breakneck speed.  [Stan.TB] went off for a Wetherspoons Breakfast, Hector renewed his Curry quest.

The number of venues is impressive, but how many would open at lunchtime?  The Saffron (64 Tavistock Street,  Bedford, MK40 2RG)  had a board on the pavement stating that they were open.  Technically they open at Noon, but Hector was welcomed inside at 11.40.

The Lamb Balti in Leamington Spa went down well last Saturday, so whilst in England why not stick to their Speciality? Two Chapattis (40p each) were negotiated after I had enquired as to the size of the offering.  The Chef was dispatched to the Kitchen  for the first serving of this fine day.

The wait was within acceptable parameters, the Chap emerged from the Kitchen with what looked like an impressive Curry.  The Masala was minimal and thick.  The first Dip revealed an array of pleasant flavours.  The Lamb was tender, there was plenty of it, Hector already knew that he had found a decent Curry House.

This was my first ever Bedford Curry, I was impressed.  I also knew that there would have to be at least one more Bedford Curry consumed on this trip.

 The Bill

£12.50.  This included the a bottle of Sparkling Water.

 The Aftermath

I wandered down to the Great Ouse, my first ever glimpse of this river I learned so much about at school. There was a rendezvous for a continuation of the main purpose of our visit.

There was also the choice of where to go next:

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Punjabi Charing Cross or Spanish Football?

Posted on May 9, 2012 by Hector

Hector the ever-professional only sneaks out for the occasional mid-week aperitif in the summer term once all the certificate nonsense is taken care of.  Athletico Spain v Spanish Athletico in the Bon Accord proved not to be sufficient entertainment.  Between the Bon Accord and Charing X Station lies danger.  One could not help but cast one’s eyes left as the five paces between the Bon Accord and safety were strode.

There was a Wave

Young Hari caught the eye, it would have been impolite not to go in on a quiet Wednesday evening and exchange the time of day.  Once I was in, the trap had been set.  How can Hector stand in one of his favourite Curry Houses and not eat?  There was a brief enquiry as to what was available and to be precise – was Chef Gurmeet on duty?  This was confirmed and the infamous Lamb Guremeet was underway.

Meanwhile Yvonne was on the phone to say that she and Craig (in Birmingham) had just had their best Curry – ever.  This on the very day when Steve Harris (Ark / Paul Menel Band) was exchanging Curry venues – in Birmingham.  This man insists that Birmingham Curry is better than Bradford Curry. Is this possible?  Hector has only had one Birmingham Curry experience.

The Complementary Poppadom and Onion Chutney were consumed with vigour.  It was after 21.00.  Young Hari brought the goods – the Lamb Gurmeet looked as mean as ever: the minimal but thick Masala with the obvious overload of Methi – but not so excessive that it becomes a Saag /Palak variant, and enough flavour to send Hector into ecstasy.

With two typical Glasgow Chapattis the entire dish was scoffed.  The Lamb was partly on-the bone, how else could it be served? This is perfection.  One does tend to become excited when this level of dish is presented.

The Bill

£13.10.  This included the customary glass of Sparkling Water.

The Aftermath

This is when the evening took off.  Hari (Sr) resplendent in off-duty red polo-shirt arrived to greet Hector.  The update on the Glasgow Curry scene (as perceived by the Hector)  was continued with Young Hari .

We discussed the last visit with the Goat and how I thought the portion had shrunk.  Hari shared my belief that this should not happen.  If the dish costs more to present then put the price up!  I also suggested that more places should sell by weight thus guaranteeing the size of the served portion.

Young Hari was well aware of Shorva and he mentioned Turnip.  Have people been reading these entries?

I offered the wonderful idea as experienced last Saturday in Leamington Spa – the £2.50 additional Interesting Vegetable to top one’s Curry.  This would work as long as the Chef does not interpret the order –  a Lamb and Potato Curry.

Hari suggested Chicken.  Is there something I do not know?  Venison had been mentioned before.

Hari re-appeared.  We agreed that Venison could be the ultimate meat to Curry.  Hector knows this to be true. I cooked a Venison Curry once – it was remarkable.

Hari dared to suggest that with the number of Blog entries and Restaurants visited I could eat out for free.  This would never do.  I enjoy the freedom of critique without pressure.

[Stan: TB!] texted between the Punjabi and Charing X Station.  Our man from Bradford is in Glasgow next week – he needs Glasgow Curry.

The task of taking a man from Bradford to a pleasing venue in Glasgow  is always our challenge.  Hari was phoned – the Venison Curry is on order for Wednesday.

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A return to Leamington Spa for Curry and Pendragon – and a portion of IQ too!

Posted on May 5, 2012 by Hector

Normally the Curry-Heute write up appears before the Gig, but not tonight.  Marg and Hector were set for a Curry just after 18.00.  The plan was to collect the tickets from The Assembly, the venue in Leamington Spa but on arrival there was a queue.  It became apparent that there would be an early kick-off, but as usual nobody can ever give a definitive schedule.

Paul Menel Band

It was March 17, 1989, when I last saw Paul Menel perform with IQ.  Tonight the Support could easily have been a Headline Act.

We entered the hall and within ten minutes The Paul Menel Band, or tonight’s configuration thereof, took the stage.  Paul Menel was accompanied this evening by Martin Orford (keyboards), both are former IQ members, the latter having only left in the last three years.  Paul Menel featured as vocalist on the third and fourth IQ albums back in the late 1980s.  Eventually IQ split only to reform and record the mighty Ever and Subterranea albums.  Paul Menel disappeared into obscurity.

Tonight’s set featured the songs from these two classic IQ albums – Nonzamo and Are You Sitting Comfortably as well as featuring two non IQ tracks.

No Love Lost was performed as a duet before Steve Harris (Ark) took to the stage with his guitar for Promises and Nonzamo.  A new Menel song – Ray of Hope interrupted the IQ Nostalgia-Fest, and then an acoustic guitar was brought on.  Could this mean the intro to what remains one of Hector’s all time favourite tracks … the opening notes confirmed Common Ground … this was worth the trip from Glasgow alone.  Hector is not big on lyrics, however this song is an exception.

Company ‘A’ to Company ‘B’ “Morale is high here, sir, but I don’t think it’s safe to go” Company ‘A’ from Company ‘B’ “Mister you have your orders and you must obey” So the first line rose, and the first line fell And a poet who survived later wrote about A “Sunlit vision of Hell”

Steve’s own interpretation of the guitar outro gave the song a new slant.  If one has never heard this, it is on the Nonzamo album.

A Martin Orford composition, Chair then followed and sounded more IQ-like than some IQ material.  Still Life in a blues rhythm completed a fine set, or I wish it had.  For some inexplicable reason we had to stand through Comfortably Numb as the closer.  When one has written material of the strength of War Heroes, Wurench and Nothing at All, why play this?

(Thanks to Steve Harris for providing the set list)

Pendragon

The changeover between the bands was minimal.  The word had gone round by now that we were all to be out by 22.00.  Pendragon were on stage by 19.30 so a full set was in the offing, but not the three hours we were treated to at the same venue a couple of years back.

Passion and Empathy were played sequentially at the start.  This had not been the case on last year’s tour as presumably this much new material at the start of a set could prove difficult.  But come on, we are all die hard Pendragon fans, here to show our appreciation for the music and witness the only gig this year in the UK.

A Man of Nomadic Traits (Not of This World) was followed by Alaska from the very first album The Jewel.  Nick likes to mix the old with the new and ensure the set always stays fresh. Back to the Passion album and the track that has won all the awards in the last year Green and Pleasant Land.

The first of only two tracks from the previous album – Pure began without introduction.  Freak Show is superb and is only upstaged by the track which closed the main set. Skara Brae and Your Black Heart (both Passion) completed the new material. Nostradamus (Window of Life) is always used mid-set to get everyone bouncing again after a quiet ending to a song.

Nick Barrett has composed two pieces of music that any man would proud of: Breaking the Spell (Window of Life) and Indigo (Pure) were played to close the main set.  Twenty minutes and more of sheer pleasure.  Hector’s favourite Pendragon tracks, one after the other.  It was worth the drive from Scotland, oh, I’ve written that already.

The banter between the songs is very much Nick chatting with his mates.  ‘Are there any Germans in the crowd?’

‘Nein!’   ‘Nein!’   Nein!’

There was a Polish guy who blocked Marg’s view so she moved to the side. This was seconds before the Bier started to fly.  What is it about my Tegernsee fleece that attracts Bier?   Hector was soaked.

The encores were World’s End (Not of This World) and Masters of Illusion (Masquerade Overture).  It could have been any two of over a dozen choices such is the quality of the music of Pendragon.

Nick left us with ‘See you when the next album comes out.’

Same time next year?

(Thanks to Rachel Wilce for providing the set list)

This was Marg’s third Pendragon concert in England plus a couple now in Glasgow.  Last time we stayed behind to meet The Chaps, but Curry was calling.

This is a Curry Blog!

The area around Leamington Spa Station has an abundance of venues to choose from.  King Baba was the choice – the décor and ambience was more appealing to Marg.  On his own, Hector would have been in at least one of the Cafes.

After last night’s disappointment in Appleby there was a feeling that anything would be better.  The menu had an array of Balti dishes.   Marg chose the Lamb Balti Rogan Josh and I went for the Lamb Karahi Balti with Aloo and specifically no Capsicum.  There was a nice touch to the menu where for an extra £2.50 one could add any combination of vegetables to one’s dish.  This is a great idea, I hope others read this and consider it as the way ahead.    As last Saturday’s discussion at Yadgar will confirm man cannot enjoy Curry with meat alone – bring on the Interesting Vegetable!

Two Chapattis and one Garlic Nan were the Accompaniments.  Marg was taking no chances either after the miniscule offerings the night before.

When the meals arrived there was instantaneous gratification.  These looked like Curry!  The first dip revealed all that is Curry.  A wonderful, but minimal Masala and the tenderest of Lamb.  The flavours emerged and satisfaction was once again achieved. The added Potato and the Onion slices gave great diversity.  This was a very good Curry.

Marg’s Rogan Josh disappeared quickly too.  I was permitted the last piece of Lamb, another fine dish.

I made my pleasure known to the Chap who cleared the plates, there was a positive reaction to this.

The Bill

£27.35.  With two soft drinks this was exactly what we would pay in Glasgow.

The Aftermath

The Calling Card was received and I could sense the other staff taking interest.  I promised a good write up – here it is.  I can certainly recommend King Baba in Leamington Spa.  Hector will return, one day.

Now for a short drive to Coventry where the only affordable hotel room in the area was located.

Posted in King Baba | 1 Comment

Ashiana, Appleby-In-Westmorland

Posted on May 4, 2012 by Hector

Hector and Marg find themselves in Appleby en route to Leamington Spa to see Pendragon and two former IQ members appearing as the Paul Menel Band.  Quality Bier was meant to be available and a surprising choice of two Curry Houses in such a small town.   The Desi  Spice was Hector’s intended venue for  Curry-Heute, however the owner of our excellent B&B   advised against this and spoke very favourably about the Ashiana (9 Bridge Street, Appleby-In-Westmorland, Cumbria CA16 6QH).  One has to bow to local knowledge, or should one follow one’s instincts and realise that a place with Desi in the name may have something more to offer?  We may never know, our table was booked, we would arrive at 20.00.

The menu had the fall back basics and some new names that caught the eye.   There was no Karahi or Desi style dish on offer.  Was this really an Indian Restaurant?  The engraving on the window said Asian. Hector chose the Shorisha, Lamb of course, because it was one of the few dishes that did not list Capsicum, the dreaded mushy vegetable, as one of the ingredients.  An interesting blend of Spices was claimed.  Marg opted for another new name – Imlea which read like a Tamarind flavoured Patia.  It was agreed the Chicken version would be more suited to this style of dish. Three Chapattis were ordered as accompaniments.

Moments later the table to my right was served.  I spotted an impressive looking Aloo side dish so sprang up to secure this add-on.  Bombay Potato it was then.  The table to my left was then served.  What could only be Chicken Tikka Masala was set before the Lady, the classic Chicken in a Bowl of Soup. Her Beau was served with an impressive platter of Chicken Tikka.  The third dish on the table was a dry Lamb dish.  What was this?  Why had I not seen anything matching this description on the menu?  Would I get something like this, or the Bowl of Soup?

Perhaps, Dear Reader you can predict the answer?

The Shorisha was red and wet.  Cue the look of disappointment.  The Lamb was in strips which would not be maintained by boiling.  This, I concluded was Lamb Tikka, not my preferred option.  The Masala not only contained Green Peppers but Red Peppers too.  A double whammy against the Hector.  These provided the only flavours in the dish.  The Masala was tasteless, how they managed this I know not.  That the Capsicum dominated is commensurate with my entire campaign against this needless addition.

On a positive note

The Bombay Potato was impressive.  The minimal Masala was thick, full of flavour and there was more kick from this than the very bland Shorisha.  Three portions of this would have made a very Happy Hector.

Imlea

Marg may well be easier to please than Hector.  She enjoyed her meal in which Mango was the dominant flavour.   The brown colour of the Masala was more appealing  than the off-putting red.   Being permitted a sample I did find this certainly more flavoursome than the bland Shorisha, but too sweet.

Now what?

It soon became apparent that the three modestly sized Chapattis would not be enough.  Being spoiled by Glasgow/Bradford sized Chapattis one cannot know what to expect when one is in The Sticks.  Given the amount of liquid set before us a Pilau Rice had to be ordered halfway through the meal.

As the waiter cleared up he asked if we had enjoyed our Meal.  ‘One of us did!’ was the reply.

The Bill

£31.15.  This included one large bottle of Sparkling Water and a Coffee.  The Calling Card was presented with little acknowledgment.

 The Aftermath

The staff made no attempt at any discourse about their food.

Marg later admitted that she was puzzled as to why I had not walked out when the menu was presented.  Indeed, we could have had a better Curry elsewhere.  Anything would have been better this, and I would not have had to compose such a negative review which frankly I do not enjoy.

Should I find myself in Appleby again, the Desi  Spice will be the port of call, it must be better, surely?

Time for a Bier…

Posted in Ashiana | 3 Comments

Birthday Treat at The Khyber

Posted on April 30, 2012 by Hector

Tonight was a special night, the Birthday of Hector’s alter ego. Two years ago was my last visit to the Mother India restaurant, a poor night.  Last year was a Home cooked affair with Potatoes that wouldn’t.   Would it be three Catastrophes in a row?  Of course not, a trip to The Khyber Restaurant (221 St Andrews Road, Glasgow, G41 1PD) must impress.

Marg and Hector entered the empty premises just after 18.00.  Is it too early for the masses, or are things not going so well?  A Chap from East Kilbride came in for a Takeaway, an expensive round trip by taxi.  One has to expect to pay a bit more than the norm at The Khyber, the portions are not small, at a half kilo the quantity is guaranteed.

Amjad, our Host had to go out for Sparkling Water, Marg had Green Tea to kick things off, why was she frozen?  The Boti Kebab would pass the time whilst out Mains were prepared.  These succulent and dry Tandoori baked pieces of Lamb are stunning.  One could easily sit and eat this all night, but one would be missing something special.

The Menu was new and more extensive than on the first visits.  The prices may well have increased too.  There was a larger selection of Karahi dishes to choose from.  Marg went for the Lamb Peshawari Karahi (£11.95) which was off-the-bone.

The boldly named (Lamb) Khyber Special Karahi (£13.95) and on-the-bone, was the choice of Hector.  One pays more for less meat, the logic escapes me.

Two Roti and a Basmati Rice were the Accompaniments.  The Khyber does offer more sophisticated Rice dishes but these are clearly meals in their own right.

The wait was significant but expected. It was hoped that the Boti Kebab would come fairly soon and the Mains after the anticipated passage of time, alas the Mains came little more than five minutes after we had finished the wonderful Boti.

The Curry at the Khyber is nothing like that served anywhere else.  Pulped Onion and Tomato is the basis of what could be considered the Masala, however the appearance is more Stew-like.  The flavours emerge slowly.  Normally as one reaches the oilier base of the dish the wow factor has hit, but less so tonight.  There was a consistently pleasant flavour but it did not bring back the outstanding memories of the previous visits.  A different Chef?  Still, the Lamb was magnificent.  Picking pieces up in the Roti and carefully avoiding biting into the bone is part of the fun.  This is still a great dish.

Marg enjoyed her meal but defeated by the volume.   Poor Hector had to sample the alternative Karahi.  The boneless Lamb was tougher but had a greater kick.  Ginger hit the palate; this served on-the-bone could be a better option.

The Bill

£36.00.  £25.00 of this was Curry.  With two Soft Drinks, a Tea and the Accompaniments,  not excessive.  We had eaten very well.

The Aftermath

More customers had arrived, some prepared for the long wait for a Takeaway.

There was a sprint home to watch Man City annoy Sir Alex.

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Glasgow – Shorva at Yadgar

Posted on April 28, 2012 by Hector

After the delights of last evening at the Alba/Asia Network Curry Night, Hector was once again dining alone.  What better than to drop in unannounced at  Yadgar (148  Calder St, Glasgow, G42 7QP) and see what is on offer for Curry-Heute.  The Chicken and Chickpeas looked very tempting but come on, Chicken?  Lamb and Turnip Shorva sounded more of a challenge.  Turnip is a Vegetable Hector chooses not to eat, I find it generally unpleasant.  One has never seen Turnip before in a Curry, this could be the one and only time it is ever eaten.

Naveed took the order along with the customary pair of Chapattis.

I had hardly settled when the meal arrived; one assumes the Chef keeps some of the Daily Specials on the hob.  This was a normal portion of Lamb on-the-bone with the classic thin Shorva Masala.  This makes a fine change from the usual Goshat Karahi, Yadgar’s signature dish.  The Turnip was not a problem.  Wrapped in a bit of Chapatti it was harmless and did not offend the Hector palate.  I might even go as far as saying it was pleasant, one needs a Vegetable.

Shalgam Gosht

The moment I finished my meal the door from the Kitchen opened and Mr Anwar Sr. made an appearance.  How did you like that? – he asked.  I told him it was probably the first time I had eaten Turnip in maybe ten years.  He explained that when Shorva is cooked one cannot just have meat and sauce, a Vegetable is necessary.  Normally this would be Potato but some people ask for Turnip for a change.

Vegetable CurryMr Anwar went into the Kitchen momentarily and returned with a small bowl.  The last time he did this it was a portion of just-cooked Semolina he presented.  Today it was a Vegetable Curry.  I had not seen this at the counter, I probably would not have ordered it anyway, but I shall be asking if it is available in future.  This was a truly wonderful, the full Yadgar flavours were there in this minimalist dish.  Potato (maybe this Tuber should feature in every Curry?), Carrot and Peas – simples.  A side portion of this between two or three people would be ideal.  It may go some way to solving the problem of not ordering the outstanding Vegetable Rice.

Hector has once again been spoilt.  The education continues: Curry without Rice, Turnip, Vegetable Curry.  I hate to admit it but the Tandoori-baked Chicken pieces are starting to look tempting too.

Devastating News

Whilst I was enjoying the delight of the Vegetable Curry, Mr Anwar told me that the Council has plans to renovate this block in Calder St.  They may have to close at an unknown time and for an unknown period.  They already have plans to renovate their premises internally but these have been put on hold until the matter of the exterior is resolved.

The Bill

£8.10.  A hearty feed and a can of juice.

The Aftermath

Hector did not spend the rest of the day alone.

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Alba Asia Network – Sri Lankan Curry Night

Posted on April 27, 2012 by Hector

All You Can Eat Curry Night

In Aid of the Alba Asia Network Fund

Genuine Sri Lankan Home Cooking

Music & Dancing

Well, the first three of the four banner statements was enough to convince Hector that he should be present.  Even the music if traditional, would be a positive feature; perhaps Eleanor’s dance talents could be called upon: Help ma Boab…

This is the third year that Maureen and Graham have been involved in the organisation of this Charity Event.  The Cathcart Bowling Club is an unlikely place to go for Quality Curry but then Crawley has the Lal Akash at The Ram Sports Social Club, so why not?  Extra tables had to be raised on the dance floor, a good sign on two levels.

 

Eleanor also shares Hector’s belief that – Every Day is a Good Day to Eat Curry – so she was up for this collective immediately.  Kirsty came though from the Far East, Kirkcaldy and Anthony was the surprise inclusion.  Steve the Decisive was a last minute additive and had to phone Graham to negotiate his own ticket an hour before kick-off.  He timed this to perfection, tickets were not available at the door as the organisers had to know how many to prepare for.  In the end the eighty expected became one hundred and twenty, no more was Maureen’s instruction.

Anthony and his Harem were in situ as Marg and Hector entered, only then of course did we know that Steve was there to spoil (?) Anthony’s night.   Michael, who has not featured in Curry-Heute before, joined us soon afterwards.  This is the man who lives closest to Yadgar of The Friends of Hector, and has never been.

The Starters were uncomplicated: Pakora, Spring Rolls (or something very close), Onion Chutney and Poppadoms.  It became evident that the presentation of the  Main Courses would be some time.  The Starters kept coming, mustn’t eat more, mustn’t’ eat more, doh….

At 20.40 Hector returned from the bar to find a food queue of forty people.  Good timing.  Eleanor and Anthony were off.  The rest of us save Kirsty joined in.  Was she not eating?  Twenty minutes later the tureens were within our grasp.  A choice of Rice or Noodles, Marg took the noodles Hector had minimal Rice.  The Lamb Curry was the Big Attraction for most of us. The tureen had a single portion left, Michael and I shared it.  Fortunately the Chaps were refilling the tureens and a basin of Lamb straight from the Hob was provided.  Now we have food!

The Devilled Chicken was dry, as good a Chicken dish as I have encountered.  The Mixed Vegetable Curry looked like the genuine Sri Lankan fare Marg and Hector enjoyed on our Honeymoon in – Sri Lanka!  This would have the Coconut and looked the creamiest of all the dishes on offer.  The memories came back, this had a superb kick and at this scale was excellent, however nineteen days of this dish became an endurance by the time we reached Galle.  Two brand new experiences were the next in the array.  The Eggplant Moju looked interesting: Eggplant and Shallots with a simple blend of Spices and Vinegar.  The large slices of Onion and the pulped Aubergine punched above their weight.  The Tempered Potatoes with Onion and Curry Leaves and again a simple blend of Spices, was the final offering.  Hector loves Aloo, this was superb.  I really should order a portion of Potato with my Curry on a regular basis.

The Lamb Curry I have not commented upon, yet.  On taking my seat this was of course the first portion to be sampled.  The Masala was a wonderful Brown colour, not thin by any standard it looked the part.  The Lamb was well cooked – the combination of the two is what makes Curry – this was a very satisfying traditional Lamb Curry.  It did not have the aggression of the Glasgow Curry of the 1960s, there was a smoothness with a decent kick – is there more?

Eventually Kirtsy went up to get a modest plate of food – she brought a bowl of Lamb Curry back with her.  Steve, Michael and I finished this, Anthony and Eleanor went back for their own, Marg had already reached her fill.  Six Stuffed Turkeys and Kirsty.

There was a Raffle

We all bought tickets, Marg won a bottle of wine.  The adjacent table appeared to win half of the available prizes.

The Proceeds

The Friends of Ceylon and The Friends of Vatsalya will be the beneficiaries of this evening’s event.  They support an orphanage in Sri Lanka and India respectively.  Marg and Hector marvelled at the smart appearance of the schoolchildren in Sri Lanka on our visit in 2003.

The Kitchen

The meal was cooked by Suneth and Donna Liyanage.

Hector had to go to the Kitchen and thank the Chaps, it is a Sri Lankan thing.

 

 

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Yadgar, the Takeaway!

Posted on April 23, 2012 by Hector

Marg revealed yesterday that for today’s Birthday Celebrations at the Wendy House, we were to bring over a Curry for the adults.  Once the Hector had been consulted there could be only one possible source of Curry, the magnificent Yadgar (148  Calder St, Glasgow, G42 7QP).  Shkoor, Mein Host was texted last night with an order for 2 Vegetable Pakora, 2 Vegetable Rice, 5 Chapattis, Poppadoms and Onion Chutney and wait for it – One Kilo of Boneless Goshat Karahi (Medium).  The order was received and confirmed in seconds.  Hector had to compromise in intensity of both heat and flavour by having the Boneless version and at a Medium heat rating.

At the eleventh hour, two further diners were to be included, a phone call was necessary to order an extra portion of Curry and a further Plain Rice.

Arriving promptly at the 19.00 rendezvous, I was greeted by Shkoor who announced that there was Good News and Bad News.  I opted for the Bad: they had no more Boneless Lamb; the Good News did not have to be spoken.  A Hector-sized portion of Goshat Karahi on-the-bone was set aside.  Life can be tough.   Shkoor was packing the various Bits and asked if I would be indulging in my other Passion this evening.  Being a weeknight this was not going to be the case.  One cannot have too much pleasure.

Whilst we watched Shkoor and Naveed deal with our order, the seated customers and a steady flow of the others in for a Takeaway, there was time to study the dishes on display under the counter.  The Chicken Legs have never been sampled, temptation. The red and oily Lamb dish looked stunning, I felt like staying. With everything packed, it was time to depart.

The Bill

£45.00.  A customer standing beside us asked if he could come with us.  This is as it should be.

 The Eating

The Hector portion was placed in the oven along with all the Bits to bring it back to a perfect eating temperature.  I had never tasted Yadgar Pakora before, it was not outstanding.  I worry when the Starter impresses excessively, I now what usually follows…  I cursed myself for allowing myself to be distracted by Poppadoms, Pakora, Chutney and Sauces, but it was a Dinner Party.  Nice to be nice.

Four adults had One Kilo of Boneless Goshat Karahi set before them.  Only Marg had witnessed this meal before.  They had never seen such a Curry, it was not Soup.  The majority claimed they would prefer it this way.   The tenderness of the Lamb impressed.  The Kick caused no complaints.  As anticipated, the Vegetable Rice went down well; again the Hosts had never experienced this, another treat.  The Four could not manage the Kilo.  There was Suplus Curry, had Hector misjudged?

Meanwhile Hector was having his second Goshat Karahi in three days.  With Chapatti in hand and some Vegetable Rice on the plate, the Curry was enjoyed to the full.  Four or five pieces of bone were left, all small.  The Hector portion lived up to expectation, and remember this is the highest level there is.

Somehow the Surplus found its way back to Clydebank. Now, who thought this was accidental?

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Yadgar – Unglaublich Curry Geschmeckt!

Posted on April 21, 2012 by Hector

Curry-Heute findet  Hector an, was sein Lieblings-Glasgow-Curryhaus bleibt Yadgar (148  Calder St, Glasgow, G42 7QP ).  Hector hat neigt, Yadgar als ein Pony mit einen Tricks in den letzten Jahren anzusehen, nicht mehr. Ich habe eine Vielzahl von Tellern hier in meinen neuesten Besuchen gegessen. Heutiger Tag ist zurück zu den Wurzeln mit dem berühmten Goshat Karahi als die Mahlzeit der Wahl. Wenn es einen besseren Curry gibt, der in Glasgow gedient wird, habe ich es nicht gefunden.

“Curry-Today Hector turns up, what its favourite Glasgow Curryhaus remains Yadgar (148 Calder St, Glasgow, G42 7QP).  Hector does not have bends, to Yadgar as a pony with one cheats in the last years to regard, any longer. I ate a variety of plates here in my newest visits. Today’s day is back to the roots with the famous Goshat Karahi as the meal of the choice. If there is a better Curry, to which in Glasgow one serves, I did not find it.”

Well that was nonsense, but such is the frivolous mood Hector finds himself in today, why not?  A one-trick-pony indeed.  (Andrew can you help?)  What does Babble-Fish Curry taste like?  Why the poor attempt at Deutsch?  [Stan.TB] and Jonathan are in Köln today, Hector eats alone, again.

Thanks to an unfortunately timed shower between Hector’s House and the Station, I found myself soaking wet in my lower half and most uncomfortable.  Where the Hector Curry Pound would be spent today was still undecided.  What would make me a Happy Old Hector – it had to be the Curry that has consistently provided the greatest pleasure of the past two years – this was the thirtieth visit to Yadgar, a Curry-Heute Milestone.  A text was sent to Mein Host – Goshat Karahi.  I left to the discretion of the restaurant as to whether this would be Boneless or the classic on-the-bone.  Last Saturday I ordered Boneless but was seduced by the Karela Gosht at the last minute.  In recent visits I have been served Methi Gosht.  I have finally broken the chain of being tied to what is the best Curry served in Glasgow and been brave enough to sample the other superb dishes on offer at this humble establishment.  However today it was back to the roots, oh, I’ve written this twice already.

Entering slightly later than estimated due to the unexplained lack of trains to Glasgow Central Low Level, Naveed, the Every Faithful Servant was on the phone.  He acknowledged me and I took my seat.  Young Ahmed appeared and offered Poppadoms, Chutney, Starters, these were all declined.  Two Chapattis would be sufficient accompaniment.

Mr Arshad, currently the Head Chef, appeared with his lunch and sat at the adjacent table, he acknowledged me too.  A third customer sat alone awaiting his feast.  In a few minutes there was the comical sight of three Chaps all sitting alone, facing in the same direction towards the window, and not a word being said.  When the Curry is this good, one becomes speechless.

The on-the-bone version of Goshat Karahi packs an incredible amount of flavour into one dish.  Seasoned to perfection to bring out the full flavours of the Herbs and Spices, there was a kick too.  How to balance this kick and not spoil the flavour is the mark of genius.  The quantity was also most generous.  Hector was half expecting Shkoor to appear through his Magic Trap Door halfway through my meal, I did receive a text to check all was well.  The kitchen had been instructed to prepare a Hector sized portion.  If this is the case, how can I ever dine here in company again?  Well, ordering the full Kilo between two tends to guarantee absolute satisfaction.  No problem today, this was as much as I could comfortably consume.  The sheer pleasure of every morsel has to be noted, again.

I was left with four small pieces of bone.

The Bill

£9.85.   This included one soft drink.

The Aftermath

The Lonesome Three were progressively replaced by an impressive gathering.  By the time I departed, eight people were sitting with a Kilo of Goshat Karahi.  Perhaps some were there to spectate?

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