Time was, a midnight Bradford Curry could be the first/last of three in a twenty four hour period. Maybe those days have gone for good, just as well. After the ritual Fish Karahi at Kashmir Restaurant this afternoon, the plan was to squeeze in one more. Two nights in Bradford only, so many favourite venues to get round, not possible.
When Mein Host at The Record Cafe declared a 22.00 closing tonight, Hector’s plans dissolved into disarray. Still not enough recovery time after a late lunch, and the explanation was something to do with being a Sunday and January. Chaps, we need a midweek trip to Bradford/Halifax in the warmer months.
It was 22.30 when we walked into Sheesh Mahal (6 St. Thomas’ Rd, Bradford, BD1 2RW). Westgate, next door, was derelict, in fact, even the signage had gone. So much for their renovation. There was no Taj, Omar or Amar, only young Abdul recognised us. Usman and Waqas would also be looking after us tonight.
Poppadoms were declined, twice, Raita and a Dip, whose recipe appears in Curry-Heute as – Pakora Sauce 2 – were brought in an instant. Despite pleading for no more, a comprehensive Salad still appeared. Such is the welcome at Sheesh Mahal.
So no Curry for Hector, something I have been tempted to do in Glasgow for some time was the fallback. Mix Grill Platter (£13.45) – a Meat Feast, and no need for unnecessary Rice/Bread. Surely, despite Marg saying she wasn’t hungry, she would have a nibble, or two, or three… To Share For 2 People – the menu informs. Marg thought this was OTT, but that would be my main/only course.
Marg not hungry? The Record Cafe’s crisps, almonds and olives had all been enjoyed. I fail to comprehend why Marg needs these distractions, surely watching Hector enjoy his Craft Beer should be stimulating enough of an evening? (emoticon understood)
Marg’s order – Kashmiri Tea (£2.60).
A Saturday night, and only two other customers. What has happened to the days when we were all crammed into the original, dungeon-like premises? Since the rebuild, I have never seen Sheesh Mahal this quiet at night.
Mix Grill Platter
Seekh Kebab both Chicken and Meat, Chicken Tikka Boti, Chicken Wings, Masala Fish and Lamb Chops! The Chicken Wings aside, Omar has probably tantalised the Hector with the remaining items in this list at some point previously.
The pile of Meat on the platter was huge, two of everything, perfect for sharing. Overall, there would only be one criticism: Hector likes his Meat cremated. However, succulence may then be lost. Tonight, everything was suitably hot and moist.
I started with the most familiar, the Seekh Kebab. Here was the opperchancity to confirm that Lamb always trumps Chicken, and of course it did. Spicy and Herb-rich, superb. The Lamb Chops, being relatively underdone, did not have the impact they could have had. But still, Lamb Chops, and Hector had both!
By this time it had become apparent that Marg was not going to assist, she would force me to devour all that lay before me. Hector was up for the challenge.
Nando’s! – was my exclamation when tackling the Chicken Tikka Boti. Tasty Chicken, but as ever, the added Spice and Flavouring were superficial. (which of course is why Nando’s provide bottled sauces to spice up the white meat)
Wetherspoon’s Chicken Wings are spicier than those served here. The best was kept to last. Omar presented Steve and Hector with Fish one evening, it was truly outstanding. Tonight, the Batter was a bit limp, but the Fish itself was – Wow! Thick chunks of Fishiness. For the second time today, Hector had been wowed by Fish. Why is that I have to come to Bradford to make it so?
The sad conclusion had to be admitted: having managed all this, I could have had a Curry.
The Bill
£16.05 My records show that a Mix Grill Platter in 2021 was only £10.95.
The Aftermath
Having observed the photography, Usman asked if I was a writer, I don’t think he was prepared for the introduction of Curry-Heute. He has only been at Sheesh Mahal for a couple of weeks. The Calling Card was distributed to all, time to make everyone famous.
I was also told that Westgate is relocating. Maybe a Bradford resident can advise as to where?
Friday 13th, a good day to travel. Today trains were running to time, well almost. At least the trains were running. This is the annual weekend when IQ perform in Bury. Hector learned years ago not to stay in Bury, especially when a night in Manchester is the alternative. 
No unnecessary Masala, and no visible Oil, this was as Dry a Keema as I have encountered, brave. With the Spinach mixed through the Mince, the appearance reminded me of Haggis. It’s that time of year. 
Marg got tucked in. What looked like a modest plate of Curry proved to be misleading. Remember, with no Masala to speak of, this was a solid mass. 
Rizwan brought the naked Curry. What a portion, – double figures – did not do the Meat count justice. It also made a mockery of the portion size and subsequent price of my last Curry at 
Starting with the blended Masala and Rice there was an immediate kick and blast of Flavour. Cloves are the distinctive Manchester Spice, I would pick out a piece of 
Cinnamon Bark in due course. 
On Saturday, Yvonne a regular diner at 
The Subway was off, in both directions, there was little choice other than to walk to Byres Rd. from Partick. Taking respite from the prolonged precipitation, and the numerous puddles in Ruthven Lane, I reached Chaakoo at 14.10. For the uninitiated, Ruthven Lane lies to the west side of Byres Road. Ashton Lane, to the east, has two other famous Curry Houses, 
Two couples occupied booths to my left on entry, a group of youths in the far corner to the right. They were loud, Hector went left. A well mannered chap was wiping tables, I was able to choose my own spot. 
Three Baby Potatoes sat in a mass of chopped Onions, also featuring Curry Leaves and Mustard Seeds. It’s good when these Seeds are identified, else one is left wondering, Mustard, Poppy, Nigella etc. There was a definite oil slick collecting at the bottom of the bowl, best avoided. I decanted to the side-plate provided. 
The base Masala appeared almost identical to the above, this time creamier, Coconut Milk probably being the extra, plus Ginger and Garlic. The Onion pieces were possibly larger. Four pieces of rolled Monkfish were decanted, that I reached four triggered another comparison. The four pieces of Fish presented recently at 
Baby Potatoes, fitting for Tapas, I would have to eke these out. The ratio of Potato to – Masala – for me, was not well judged. Too much of the latter. Masala, was this truly a Masala, was this Curry? The menu claimed so. 
I ate on, the Fish and Potatoes gone, I was left with the almost cold, chopped Onions and little sense of enjoyment. Wet and bland – were my final notes. I was never going to be filled by this, a Rice or Bread would have been an obvious addition to my Order. Too late. 
Calling Cards are typically issued on Visit #1, was this so? Why spoil the day of the chaps who had so ably served me? My issue was with what they had served. I had spotted that if one leaves a review in a certain medium, they come back quickly. 
Yadgar Kebab House
Arriving at 14.30, Naveed was in his spot behind the counter. 
Determined not to overindulge, I surveyed the trays under the counter, the – Daily Specials. Aloo Keema Mutter (£7.00) – sat in the middle of three, always tempting, but Hector has maybe seen enough Mince of late. Chapli Kebab (£3.50) has become a must in recent visits, today I would resist, no overindulgence. 
A serving chap brought a Mango Rubicon (£1.00), the orchestra in the kitchen was being well conducted. Chef Arshad stopped to chat en-route from kitchen to store cupboard. He has been on holiday of late, my return visit was well timed. 
Fish Pakora (£6.00) another irresistible 
Tawa Chapatti
A sensible fraction of a portion, enough to titillate, and not miss out. The majority of my Soupçon was Cauliflower with the Masala Mash also being Cauliflower-rich. I decided to ignore the clean plate and use the now warmer one on which the Fish had occupied. 
A plateful, topped with Coriander, an abundance of Herbs, a test. Eight pieces of Lamb, some on-the-bone, sat in the thick green mush. Where to start?
On the assumption that the Palak would overwhelm the palate, I started with the Aloo Gobi. Astonishing! The Cauliflower had absorbed so much Flavour from the Masala Mash, the unique – 
quantity of Spinach et al was on the edge of my comfort zone, would I clear the plate? 
Happy New Year to all readers of Curry-Heute which will soon be entering its fourteenth year, a lot of Curry, a lot of writing. A special mention to Curryspondents who were in touch: Doug, Archie, Ayaz, Zaheer and Tom, plus continuing thanks to Neil who proof reads these pages. 
A quick glance at the ready Curry, Chicken Keema stood out. Ayaz confirmed that the (Lamb) Keema Mutter was not ready. My fellow diners took the Mince option: Spicy – Chicken Keema (£8.50) for Clive, less so, for Maggie, and for Marg, Mince Poori (£7.00). 
The Mushroom Rice portion is way too large for one, Maggie was keen to share. Two Chapattis (£1.00) completed the order. One was really enough, one and a half would be ideal. Will 2023 be the year of – the half Chapatti?
Two substantial Chapattis, halved, were presented. Last Friday I marvelled once more at 
Served with a comparatively Soupy Masala, this needs Rice. The ratio of Masala to the half portion of Mushroom Rice worked perfectly. Moist Rice throughout, even allowing for my dipping with Chapatti. 
Once the nine pieces of Meat were arranged on the Rice, so I then spread the Masala. The mindset had to be switched to – Curry.
This creation makes its first appearance in Curry-Heute. The quantity of filling far surpasses the 
First Curry of the year, Marg’s initial reaction maintains: this is Spicy!
Meanwhile, across the table, Maggie was questioning – medium Spice. Clive’s Keema had added sliced Green Chillies, presumably Maggie’s was as on display. Whilst the Mushroom Rice did temper the Spice in the lesser Keema, Yoghurt was called for, a Mint Raita was presented. All was well. 
My first ever Chicken Keema – began Clive – very happy. Asked for Spicy, not unbearable, at the right level for me. 
On 
I took my favourite spot in the empty seating area. The usual order was recited: Karahi Lamb (£12.00) and one Chapatti (£1.00). A jug of tap water was brought, this I did not touch.
The Delivery Chap was sampling the fayre on display between orders. It was only later I saw a third staff member, a new assistant in the kitchen. 
The thought of never having this, as cooked at 
Lamb on-the-bone, as soft as Lamb can be and full of Flavour. The Chapatti was used to scoop up the Tomato based Masala. What a Chapatti, a standout today, light and fluffy, one can take this for granted, perfect. 
Given what is now being charged for a kilo of Karahi Gosht, this portion was still excellent value. There was no stress involved in eating this Karahi, minimal bones, one sucky. Somehow I ate this Curry quicker than normal, at the end, still hot food. The final Curry of the year, what a way to end.
That Mags and Dr. Alasdair need a break, having entertained their hordes, is understood. Free accommodation and more importantly, abundant heat, is not to be declined in these times. Due to Covid, it is three years since Marg and Hector engaged in this ritual, however there was a – 
The Spice mix, powders and whole, was assembled on xmas eve and taken north. The fresh ingredients were purchased this morning at Aberdeen’s foremost Asian grocer – New Spice of Asia – on John Street, next door to the former source of the finest rowies. What happened to them? 
Some twenty years back, whilst shopping at KRK (Glasgow), I was told to always taste a Coriander leaf at the point of purchase, else – one might go home with Parsley. Mags was on the case, alas there was no Coriander to be bought in Carnoustie. Friends and family were consulted, driving to Dundee/Arbroath was dismissed. Not the end of the World. 
The Potatoes, locally sourced, were cooked separately, just in case they were resistant. On an induction hob, everything seems to takes three times longer to cook, just saying. Gas is king, if one can still afford it. Before these were added, it was necessary to remove the excess liquid, mostly water. Three of these bowls were ladled off in order to create something approaching presentable 
The Turkey Balti had magically turned – brown. Methinks the Garam Masala had found its way in here too. Making a Curry with precooked Turkey has its limitations. Brown Turkey Meat, cooked from scratch, can give excellent results, white Turkey not. With minimal Spice and Seasoning, this was what it was. 
Carol asked me if I thought my 
The usual noises were made around the table. There were no – wows – none deserved. Such was the quantity, much was left over. Competent 
Travancore Restaurant (11 Holburn St., Aberdeen AB10 6BS Scotland), the second of the two new Curry Houses which have opened in Aberdeen in the era of Covid. Two days ago, the Curry at 
As Abdullah would later inform us, Travancore is the third business to occupy these premises since 
Travancore, a South Indian Restaurant, Smoky Flavoured Curry was therefore Hector’s hope, expectation. Travancore Fish Curry (£13.99) featuring – king fish – was both Graeme and Hector’s choice. What is – king fish? Makes a change from – Masala Fish. Euan was going for Chicken Kurumulugu Curry (£10.49) – a Black Pepper based sauce, we shall see. Plain Rice (£2.99) was almost the accompaniment, however, the chaps opted for the more exotic Lemon Rice (£3.49). 
Marg stuck with the customary Sparkling Water, a 330ml bottle (£1.95), whilst the chaps had draught Kingfisher (£4.65). Having tagged 
The Chapattis were in the proper, traditional style, no Wholemeal Flour here. Perhaps smaller than a Glasgow equivalent, two proved to be appropriate. 
Kurumulugu/Kurumulaku is, by deduction, the Black Pepper which was first traded with Vasco da Gama for Chillies, originally sourced from the Americas. Ginger Strips and Curry Leaves topped the Creamy, Nut-infused Masala with Peppery specks. 
A Soupy, Creamy, Chicken Curry, not for the Hector, however, Euan was well pleased with his selection:
The Smoky aroma was prominent as Sanjo placed the bowl before me. A squarish piece of Fish sat floating in the Soupy Masala, with a threat of Curry Leaves. Soupy, the antithesis of Hector’s preferred style, alas, how the Mainstream present South Indian Curry. 
On arranging the Fish on the Lemon Rice, there was a moment of outrage. Four pieces of Fish, the fifth solid was a piece of cooked Tomato. How can anyone justify fourteen quid for this? This was basically insulting the diner. Welcome back to the real Aberdoom. Move on. 
The first positive was the ratio of Masala to Rice, an ideal match. Unearthing a whole, dried Red Chilli ticked another of Hector’s boxes for South Indian Curry. A Chettinad variant is what was hoped for, if it has to be Soupy and Creamy, so be it. 
Excellent Fish Curry – was my final, personal note. A pity there wasn’t more Fish. Every grain of Rice was eaten, the photo shows the Red Chilli and a Soupçon of Lamb, donated by Marg for appraisal. 
Was this – Curry? On close examination, there was a Thick, Minimal Masala shrouding the Meat, that which the Hector prefers above all. There was appreciably more Lamb in Marg’s bowl than Fish on Hector’s plate. Appearance wise, this Dish was identical to a 
This is wonderful! – was uttered by the lady as she tore in to her mass of Meat, followed immediately by a Cardamom. That took her aback. Had Marg once again ordered the better Dish? Hector’s nose hovered over the Pepper Fry, Smokiness was confirmed. Last time Marg had a Smoky-flavoured Curry she failed to identify this. 
The Calling Card was issued, then a discussion of South Indian Curry followed, Chettinad had a mention. Sanjo disappeared, Abdullah was now the main man. Coats were being put on, Hector would have his photos. We were then informed that Chef insisted we should have Dessert. Initially declined, Marg accepted the offer, coats came off. 
Somehow, Hector has resisted coming this far north in 2022, until now, the ritual of Aberdoom at xmas maintains. For the first time ever, Hector and Marg actually had to pay for accommodation in this city. With the expansion of relatives’ families, there was no room at the inn. The Travelodge overlooking Union Street it is, a perfect spot from which to update Curry-Heute. The premises which were once 
Marg opted for Fish Karahi (£7.95) with her customary Roti (£0.95). For Hector, a Plain Nan (£2.50) would accompany the Punjabi Goshat. I doubt if there’s a Fish Karahi served at such an agreeable rate anywhere else in the UK outside of 
If this created an air of uncertainty, the request for a large bottle of Sparkling Water caused confusion. A jug of Tap Water was suggested as an alternative. Eventually, two 330ml bottles of Sparling Water (£2.45) were produced. 
Topped with Fresh Coriander, the flaked Fish was shrouded in just enough Masala to stir up interest. Sliced Green Chillies had been cooked through. This was reminiscent of a 
This was magnificent. The powerful Flavour of Fish was complemented by the Spicy Masala. Spice, Seasoning, Fishiness, and the ideal ratio of Fish to Masala. This could well have been the perfect Fish Karahi. And it was Marg who ordered it. If 17.00 was not the opening time, Hector would be back here on Boxing Day for lunch. 
Again, the Coriander topping featured with more Masala visible. I chose to decant to the warm plate in order to fully appraise the Masala. The almost – greyness – a telltale sign of a Tomato-based Masala was evident, this oozed quality. As with the above, sliced Green Chillies had been cooked in. Having decanted, the Coriander was now mixed through the Masala. I counted the Meat, ten pieces, two of which were on-the-bone. 
The Spice Level was well pitched, the Seasoning was below the Hector idyll. A distinctive Desi Flavour emanated from both Meat and Masala, a bit more Salt and Herbs then Hector could have been in raptures. This was most certainly not Mainstream Curry.
The Lamb varied from Tender to a bit chewy, nothing here to worry about. The Meat too was giving off the Flavour from the Masala, the quantity proved to be just the right amount. Less, and I might have left wanting, more and I could have struggled. As ever, I had to abandon the last quarter of the Bread to ensure I finished the Curry. This was pleasure, significantly different from anything ever experienced in Aberdeen. 
Although 
The Bill
Not for the first time has Hector returned from a trip and headed across the River Clyde at the first opperchancity to have Karahi Lamb at 
And so, to 
As I checked the menu had not changed since my last visit, so the Order did. Lamb On Bone Lahori Karahi (£12.95) is what I had planned to eat on leaving the house, so why not? To accompany, Nan Bread (£2.95) and a jug of Tap Water. 
The Manager, who must work the longest hours, came over for a chat. Having spotted the Persian Grill (£44.95) in 
The Naan was served in quarters, I never remember to ask for – whole Naan. It was too peely wally for Hector’s liking, no burnt blisters, but soft in parts. I was later advised that I should ask for – well done. In all my years of ordering Naan, the existence of this as an option has never been discussed. 
This is the portion, not the half kilo, which is becoming astronomical. Normally, I eat directly from the karahi, the waitress had brought a timeous warm plate and so decanting tempted. The full quality of the authentic Masala could then be revealed. 
The Tomato-rich Masala gave off a big kick, no extra Chillies required here, however, the Ginger Strips added extra bite. The Flavours were familiar with no obvious Spice in the blend. With Herbs strewn through the Masala, I hoped for the Methi blast I would experience along the road, alas, no. At 
This was a suitable – welcome home Karahi – but without the – wow. Outstanding Curry is what brought me to 
The Aftermath