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British Indian Restaurant Recipes - Main Dishes => British Indian Restaurant Recipes - Main Dishes => House Specialities => Topic started by: curryhell on July 09, 2011, 08:56 PM

Title: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: curryhell on July 09, 2011, 08:56 PM
I've been eating phalls and vindaloos for more years that i care to remember.  Whilst at one of my favourite restaurants a few months back the manager said i should try something different for a change but with added heat to my liking of course.  I agreed and he chose the North Indian Special.  I can say that  i haven't looked back since. Whenever  i dine in there now, it's my dish of choice.  Anyway, having some time on my hands today for a change, i thought I'd have a crack at creating something similar and share the results on the site.  I must say thanks to CA because his vindaloo recipe provided the starting point for today's experiment ;D.  I still need to make a couple of minor tweeks but this is pretty close.

Ingredients:

pre-cooked onions
- quarter of a large onion broken into its layers
- quarter of red or green pepper roughly chopped
- 3 chef spoons of oil (reduce to 2 if using base with high oil content ie. Taz's base)
- half tsp of fresh pureed garlic
- half tsp of mix powder

main dish
- portion of chicken tikka  ( i always use Blade's recipe - tikka par excellence!!)

- 2 tsp fresh pureed garlic
- 2 tbsp tomato paste (already diluted 50/50)
- 300ml curry base (CA's)
- 2 tsp spice mix (CA's)
- 4 tbsp chilli powder (or more to taste)
- 0.25 tsp tandoori masala  (my own blend but any will do)
- 0.5 tsp all purpose seasoning
- 3 tsp pureed mango chutney
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- fresh chopped coriander (to taste)
- 5 fresh chillies (finely chopped)


Method:

- Heat oil in suitable pan
- Add half tsp garlic puree and fry for one minute
- Add half tsp of mix and fry for about 10 - 15 seconds
- Add onions and peppers
- Cook on low heat for 15 to 20 mins until soft
- Remove onions and peppers and put to one side and leave the spiced oil in the pan for the next stage
- increase the heat to medium and add 2 tsp of garlic puree  to the spiced oil and fry for a minute with continuous stirring (do not burn!)
- Remove from heat and add the mix spice, chilli and tandoori masala and chopped chillis
- return to heat and stir fry for 30 seconds continually stirring it
-  add tomato puree and  stir in and cook for about 30 seconds or so (do not burn!)
- Add a ladle of curry base and stir
- Continue to add the curry base, a ladle at a time, stirring occasionally as the water evaporates and the sauce thickens
- Add all purpose seasoning, mango chutney and lemon juice and stir in
- now add chicken tikka and precooked onions and peppers
- Continue to simmer, on medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the oil begins to separate (5 to 10 minutes)
- Add fresh coriander to taste

I hope someone tries it and enjoys it as much as i do.  Off to the pub now and looking forward to my supper when i get home later ;D

Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: matt3333 on July 10, 2011, 07:06 AM
Thanks for sharing the recipe that looks like one hell of a hot dish :o would certainly need to tone down the chilli for my taste but another to add to the list.
Thanks
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: Ramirez on July 10, 2011, 08:56 AM
Final dish looks lovely and it's right up there with how hot I often like them. Will give this a go at some point.

Is the amount of oil correct - 3 chef spoons (12 tbsp)?
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: curryhell on July 10, 2011, 09:57 AM
Thanks for sharing the recipe that looks like one hell of a hot dish :o would certainly need to tone down the chilli for my taste but another to add to the list.
Thanks

Matt, you can obviously vary the chilli powder / fresh chilli content to your own taste :D.  I am told by others who eat the dish, without the added "ramp up" of chilli for myself, that it is very tasty :P.  I will update the recipe with any tweeks that i make to improve it.  Hope you enjoy it as you work your way down that "must try" list that all us curry addicts have ;D.
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: curryhell on July 10, 2011, 10:15 AM
Final dish looks lovely and it's right up there with how hot I often like them. Will give this a go at some point.

Is the amount of oil correct - 3 chef spoons (12 tbsp)?

Hi Ramirez.  I find it very pleasing to be among people who share the same passion and addiction for chilli and hot curries 8).  All my friends think I'm absolutely barmy and have no taste buds whatsoever.  That even extends to restaurant staff too :o.  I just can't understand them myself nor see what the problem is;D. 
Three chef spoons is the amount i used Ramirez as some will be lost to the dish until the onions are added back in and in view of the amount of combined spices that are fried off.  I would reduce this amount if you are using an oil laden base like Taz's.  In light of this I have updated the recipe.
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: jb on July 10, 2011, 10:32 AM
Looks spot on Curryhell.I take it you're trying to emulate the dish from Spices Restaurant???  They do make it spot on I have to say although next time I'll ask for vindaloo strength,think I'll have to have a go at your version and see how it compares.
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: coogan on July 10, 2011, 10:44 AM
Hello curryhell, That does look very hot and nice indeed especially like the idea of the twice cooked peppers and onion. I reckon they would be nice dry roasted and charred a bit then added to the dish.

Bon dish
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: curryhell on July 10, 2011, 11:58 AM
Looks spot on Curryhell.I take it you're trying to emulate the dish from Spices Restaurant???  They do make it spot on I have to say although next time I'll ask for vindaloo strength,think I'll have to have a go at your version and see how it compares.

Hi Jb.  You guessed right mate. It's Spice's dish I'm trying to emulate.  My observations after cooking it  yesterday, probably clouded by having been exposed to the whole cooking process which kind of blunts the olfactory senses, but not nearly as much as half a dozen bottles of Leffe did though ;D, i need to add additional pre cooked diced onions as well as the slivers of onion.  One or two whole chillis would not go a miss either.  I may also up the chutney and lemon content a tad as well.  Would be good to get a direct comparison from someone who is familiar with dish and any suggestions for future improvement.  It is one hell of a tasty dish :o
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: curryhell on July 10, 2011, 12:06 PM
Hello curryhell, That does look very hot and nice indeed especially like the idea of the twice cooked peppers and onion. I reckon they would be nice dry roasted and charred a bit then added to the dish.

Bon dish

I will difinitely hold that thought for a moment.   Now, come to think of it Coogan, there was definitely some charring going on with both the onion slivers and the peppers.  I'll have to work on that one me thinks ::)
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: jb on July 10, 2011, 12:59 PM
Looks spot on Curryhell.I take it you're trying to emulate the dish from Spices Restaurant???  They do make it spot on I have to say although next time I'll ask for vindaloo strength,think I'll have to have a go at your version and see how it compares.

Hi Jb.  You guessed right mate. It's Spice's dish I'm trying to emulate.  My observations after cooking it  yesterday, probably clouded by having been exposed to the whole cooking process which kind of blunts the olfactory senses, but not nearly as much as half a dozen bottles of Leffe did though ;D, i need to add additional pre cooked diced onions as well as the slivers of onion.  One or two whole chillis would not go a miss either.  I may also up the chutney and lemon content a tad as well.  Would be good to get a direct comparison from someone who is familiar with dish and any suggestions for future improvement.  It is one hell of a tasty dish :o

I notice you only use garlic puree and not the usual ginger/garlic mix that I see in most recipes.Adding mango chutney is another interesting ingredient....must give this a go.

I actually got a North Indian special on Friday delivered from a new place that posted me a menu.It's called the 'Elachi' in Purfleet.No idea what the place is like(it also does pizzas!!!) but the North Indian is the simply the best I've ever had.It lists among it's ingredients 'sour spices' whatever they may be but it's fantastic,you must give it go-I'd be interested to see if you can work out what gives it the extraordinary taste.
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: curryhell on July 10, 2011, 01:55 PM
I notice you only use garlic puree and not the usual ginger/garlic mix that I see in most recipes.Adding mango chutney is another interesting ingredient....must give this a go.

I actually got a North Indian special on Friday delivered from a new place that posted me a menu.It's called the 'Elachi' in Purfleet.No idea what the place is like(it also does pizzas!!!) but the North Indian is the simply the best I've ever had.It lists among it's ingredients 'sour spices' whatever they may be but it's fantastic,you must give it go-I'd be interested to see if you can work out what gives it the extraordinary taste.

Lack of ginger was because i didn't have any garlic / ginger paste, only freshly made garlic puree.  Haven't got round to doing that just yet.  I used the mango chutney is to add a savoury sweetness which is very discernable in the dish.  It doesn't seem to be the sweetness added by normal sugar - who knows!!
As for Elachi, not had anything from there.  It's been around a while -  formerly called Station Spice.  It's  a little shack right by the railway crossing at Purfleet.  Doesn't look too salubrious but that wouldn't stop it turning out good TA nosh.  How was the curry by the way??
As for the sour spices, the only spice i can think of that has been referred to as sour is mango powder (amchoor).  Another option would be the inclusion of tamarind.  I reckon my efforts so far scores 75%.  With the addition of more precooked charred onions and peppers, half tsp of amchoor and one of tamarind concentrate i could push it a bit further :D.  Would be really interested in your feedback if you get round to having a go at the recipe. Never know, maybe it'll become a joint quest - the cracking of the North Indian Special  :o
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: Razor on July 10, 2011, 03:28 PM
Hey Curryhell,

Another great looking dish my friend.  Great to see more members providing pictures too, it gives is a good guide as to what we are aiming for.

Very well done,

Ray :)
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: jb on July 10, 2011, 04:32 PM
I notice you only use garlic puree and not the usual ginger/garlic mix that I see in most recipes.Adding mango chutney is another interesting ingredient....must give this a go.

I actually got a North Indian special on Friday delivered from a new place that posted me a menu.It's called the 'Elachi' in Purfleet.No idea what the place is like(it also does pizzas!!!) but the North Indian is the simply the best I've ever had.It lists among it's ingredients 'sour spices' whatever they may be but it's fantastic,you must give it go-I'd be interested to see if you can work out what gives it the extraordinary taste.

Lack of ginger was because i didn't have any garlic / ginger paste, only freshly made garlic puree.  Haven't got round to doing that just yet.  I used the mango chutney is to add a savoury sweetness which is very discernable in the dish.  It doesn't seem to be the sweetness added by normal sugar - who knows!!
As for Elachi, not had anything from there.  It's been around a while -  formerly called Station Spice.  It's  a little shack right by the railway crossing at Purfleet.  Doesn't look too salubrious but that wouldn't stop it turning out good TA nosh.  How was the curry by the way??
As for the sour spices, the only spice i can think of that has been referred to as sour is mango powder (amchoor).  Another option would be the inclusion of tamarind.  I reckon my efforts so far scores 75%.  With the addition of more precooked charred onions and peppers, half tsp of amchoor and one of tamarind concentrate i could push it a bit further :D.  Would be really interested in your feedback if you get round to having a go at the recipe. Never know, maybe it'll become a joint quest - the cracking of the North Indian Special  :o

Sounds good.I have mango powder and a big block of tamarind in my cupboard so I think that's next on my agenda.I can visualize where the Elachi is now,I can recall seeing a little old shack when I've gone by on the train.May not look too good but the curries are great(and portions sizes are good as well).Sometimes I find that,the place may not be posh but the food is excellent.Try the North Indian from there,it's superb.
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: curryhell on July 10, 2011, 04:37 PM

Sounds good.I have mango powder and a big block of tamarind in my cupboard so I think that's next on my agenda.I can visualize where the Elachi is now,I can recall seeing a little old shack when I've gone by on the train.May not look too good but the curries are great(and portions sizes are good as well).Sometimes I find that,the place may not be posh but the food is excellent.Try the North Indian from there,it's superb.

You've got it jb.  That's the place.  I'll certainly give it a go since you recommend it.  Will be good to get their take on the North Indian Special.  Think i've got a menu.  May do that tonight.  It's a toss up between dial a dinner or have another crack at it myself :-\.  Looking forward to hearing the results when you get round to trying it mate.
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: curryhell on July 10, 2011, 04:42 PM
Hey Curryhell,

Another great looking dish my friend.  Great to see more members providing pictures too, it gives is a good guide as to what we are aiming for.

Very well done,

Ray :)

Cheers for that Ray ;).  It's always good to see the end product of ones labours ;D.  The dish is still in the creation stage at the mo but i'm sure it will evolve quickly.  Jb is going to give it a go since he knows exactly  what i'm aiming for as we both have eaten the dish from the same restaurant :). Will post any update / conclusions as the experiment continues.  Maybe some other members will take up the gauntlet?
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: coogan on July 10, 2011, 08:05 PM
Perhaps Curryhell they use a teaspoon or two of Chana Masala spice mix for that sour taste I use it a lot when I make a chickpea dish.

bon chana
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: curryhell on July 10, 2011, 09:09 PM
Perhaps Curryhell they use a teaspoon or two of Chana Masala spice mix for that sour taste I use it a lot when I make a chickpea dish.

Thanks for that Coogan.  I haven't come across that one.  I take it it's one of those packet mixes that can be found in asian grocer stores like chaat masalla?  I make channa curry regularly using just mix powder and the normal common curry ingredients.  Maybe i need to give this a whirl to see if it makes a marked difference and improvement.
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: Razor on July 10, 2011, 09:16 PM
Guy's,

Perhaps Curryhell they use a teaspoon or two of Chana Masala spice mix for that sour taste I use it a lot when I make a chickpea dish.

You could always try 1 tsp of Amchoor (ground mango) as a souring agent too!

Ray :)
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: curryhell on July 10, 2011, 09:50 PM
You could always try 1 tsp of Amchoor (ground mango) as a souring agent too!
Ray :)

That spice is already on my radar Ray.  May go with the tamarind concentrate first ;)

I reckon my efforts so far scores 75%.  With the addition of more precooked charred onions and peppers, half tsp of amchoor and one of tamarind concentrate i could push it a bit further :D.

Look forward to further experimentation with positive results i hope 8)
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: coogan on July 11, 2011, 08:25 AM
Perhaps Curryhell they use a teaspoon or two of Chana Masala spice mix for that sour taste I use it a lot when I make a chickpea dish.
Thanks for that Coogan.  I haven't come across that one.  I take it it's one of those packet mixes that can be found in asian grocer stores like chaat masalla? 

Yes it comes in a little box normally right along side the chaat masala - same packaging. I find it gives a more lemony taste then the chaat particuarly good for a chana bhaji I find.

bon masala
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: solarsplace on July 11, 2011, 10:23 AM
 :o Flipping heck  :o

Now, I love a hot curry, but.... 4 table spoons of chilli powder + 5 chillis  :o

It does look delicious though, thanks for sharing your recipe and posting the great pics.

Cheers
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: curryhell on July 11, 2011, 11:22 PM
:o Flipping heck  :o

Now, I love a hot curry, but.... 4 table spoons of chilli powder + 5 chillis  :o

It does look delicious though, thanks for sharing your recipe and posting the great pics.

Cheers

What i didn't include in the recipe was a heaped tsp of fried dried red chillis which i'd also blended to give it something a little bit more oomph ;D;D;D;D.  It's lurking in the jar next to the jar of garlic puree in the first pic.  Not for the faint hearted though :o
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: curryhell on July 18, 2011, 09:21 PM
I actually got a North Indian special on Friday delivered from a new place that posted me a menu.It's called the 'Elachi' in Purfleet.No idea what the place is like(it also does pizzas!!!) but the North Indian is the simply the best I've ever had.It lists among it's ingredients 'sour spices' whatever they may be but it's fantastic,you must give it go-I'd be interested to see if you can work out what gives it the extraordinary taste.

JB Tried the North Indian from the Elachi with special rice and saag bahji.  Rice was very nice -heavy on the peas and had quite a lot of onion in it.  The saag however was at best average and very wet.  Would not recommend that.  NI was nice but very tame on heat for my liking.  Chef probably being a bit over cautious as I'd asked for it phall strength ;D.  Most restaurants seem a bit reluctant to ramp it up  unless they know their customers.  I still rate Spices NI better though.  The Elachi version was over done with the red food colouring.  Taste wise very similar - that rich oniony / peppery taste with a hint of savoury sweetness (but not sickly) with a souring edge to it.
Anyway the quest continued tonight.  Made a couple of changes (all in red)f to quantities included tamarind concentrate, whole chillis and a couple of cloves of chopped garlic.  I opted for tamarind as the souring agent first rather than using amchoor powder.  That may be the next step.  Recipe update posted below.  Looking forward to feedback from anybody that has given this a go ;) or any thoughts on improving it.

main dish
- portion of chicken tikka  ( i always use Blade's recipe - tikka par excellence!!)

- 2 tsp fresh pureed garlic
- 2 cloves of garlic roughly diced
- 2 tbsp tomato paste (already diluted 50/50)
- 300ml curry base (CA's)
- 2 tsp spice mix (CA's)
- 2 tbsp chilli powder (or more to taste)
- 1 tsp tandoori masala  (my own blend but any will do)
- 0.5 tsp all purpose seasoning
- 3 tsp pureed mango chutney
- small tomato halved
- 0.5 tsp of tamarind concentrate
- fresh chopped coriander (to taste)
- 5 whole chillies


The chopped garlic was added with the garlic puree and the tamarind was added with the APS and mango chutney and small tomato halved.

Conclusions were that the tamarind definitely added a pleasant depth of sourness, not the acidic
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: Ramirez on August 07, 2011, 08:16 AM
Made this last night and it was lovely. Nice taste and a good amount of heat! It reminded me somewhat of a Pathia - quite sweet and sour.

Anyway, here's a pic.

(http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6004/6016637409_b9da4329d7.jpg)
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: 976bar on August 07, 2011, 09:10 AM
I actually got a North Indian special on Friday delivered from a new place that posted me a menu.It's called the 'Elachi' in Purfleet.No idea what the place is like(it also does pizzas!!!) but the North Indian is the simply the best I've ever had.It lists among it's ingredients 'sour spices' whatever they may be but it's fantastic,you must give it go-I'd be interested to see if you can work out what gives it the extraordinary taste.

JB Tried the North Indian from the Elachi with special rice and saag bahji.  Rice was very nice -heavy on the peas and had quite a lot of onion in it.  The saag however was at best average and very wet.  Would not recommend that.  NI was nice but very tame on heat for my liking.  Chef probably being a bit over cautious as I'd asked for it phall strength ;D.  Most restaurants seem a bit reluctant to ramp it up  unless they know their customers.  I still rate Spices NI better though.  The Elachi version was over done with the red food colouring.  Taste wise very similar - that rich oniony / peppery taste with a hint of savoury sweetness (but not sickly) with a souring edge to it.
Anyway the quest continued tonight.  Made a couple of changes (all in red)f to quantities included tamarind concentrate, whole chillis and a couple of cloves of chopped garlic.  I opted for tamarind as the souring agent first rather than using amchoor powder.  That may be the next step.  Recipe update posted below.  Looking forward to feedback from anybody that has given this a go ;) or any thoughts on improving it.

main dish
- portion of chicken tikka  ( i always use Blade's recipe - tikka par excellence!!)

- 2 tsp fresh pureed garlic
- 2 cloves of garlic roughly diced
- 2 tbsp tomato paste (already diluted 50/50)
- 300ml curry base (CA's)
- 2 tsp spice mix (CA's)
- 2 tbsp chilli powder (or more to taste)
- 1 tsp tandoori masala  (my own blend but any will do)
- 0.5 tsp all purpose seasoning
- 3 tsp pureed mango chutney
- small tomato halved
- 0.5 tsp of tamarind concentrate
- fresh chopped coriander (to taste)
- 5 whole chillies


The chopped garlic was added with the garlic puree and the tamarind was added with the APS and mango chutney and small tomato halved.

Conclusions were that the tamarind definitely added a pleasant depth of sourness, not the acidic
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: 976bar on August 07, 2011, 09:12 AM
Made this last night and it was lovely. Nice taste and a good amount of heat! It reminded me somewhat of a Pathia - quite sweet and sour.

Anyway, here's a pic.

(http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6004/6016637409_b9da4329d7.jpg)

That looks lovely!!! :)
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: 976bar on August 07, 2011, 09:18 AM
Sorry Curryhell, yes it's green pepper, that will teach me for not reading the whole post first :)
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: curryhell on August 07, 2011, 10:10 AM
Sorry Curryhell, yes it's green pepper, that will teach me for not reading the whole post first :)

 ;D ;D ;D. How many time are we all guilty of that 976bar !!!
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: 976bar on August 07, 2011, 10:18 AM
Sorry Curryhell, yes it's green pepper, that will teach me for not reading the whole post first :)

 ;D ;D ;D. How many time are we all guilty of that 976bar !!!

I just looked a the dish and fell in love with it, so why read the rest!!  ;D ;D
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: curryhell on August 07, 2011, 10:30 AM
Made this last night and it was lovely. Nice taste and a good amount of heat! It reminded me somewhat of a Pathia - quite sweet and sour.

Anyway, here's a pic.

(http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6004/6016637409_b9da4329d7.jpg)

Hi Ramirez.  Many thanks for giving it a go.  Glad you liked it  :).  Your pictures certainly have done it justice.  I almost tried to spoon it off the screen  ;D. 
I've only ever tried a spoonfull of pathia sauce and that was a long while ago so i can't compare.  Maybe that's the next dish i should try as i have started to diversify from phall and vindaloo at home over the last few weeks. Not sure what has come over me all  of a sudden :-\ :o ;D.
But thinking about it hot sweet and sour certainly are the typical pathia characteristics that feature on most menu descriptions of the dish and this dish certainly has all of those. Maybe i need to do a side by side comparison to check on the differences.  Do you know of a good pathia recipe i can compare it against?  I still have some work to do on this dish to hone it closer to the dish served by my local favourite BIR though :-\
But it is nice to know someone else has taken the trouble to cook it and enjoyed it.  Thanks again :D
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: curryhell on August 07, 2011, 10:38 AM

I just looked a the dish and fell in love with it, so why read the rest!!  ;D ;D

Does that mean i can expect to hear some more feedback when you've cooked it for yourself  :D.??  Don't forget to include the precooked onions and peppers which are included at the beginning of the thread but which i omitted to mention in my update - oops :-\ :-\
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: 976bar on August 07, 2011, 10:52 AM
I could try this tomorrow evening as I have some base and chicken tikka in the fridge, I don't have any tamarind but that's because I'm not really keen on tamarind so will probably opt for the lemon juice instead :)

I'll let you know how it goes :)
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: curryhell on August 07, 2011, 10:56 AM
I could try this tomorrow evening as I have some base and chicken tikka in the fridge, I don't have any tamarind but that's because I'm not really keen on tamarind so will probably opt for the lemon juice instead :)

I'll let you know how it goes :)

Look forward to hearing your results :D.  You could always use some amchoor (mango) powder as a souring agent if you have any instead of the lemon juice. That's one thing i've yet to try.
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: Razor on August 07, 2011, 12:41 PM
Hey CH,

I'm gonna give this a bash next weekend. Both Rams and your efforts looks amazing, so it is a 'must do' for me.

I haven't seen a North Indian Special on any of the menu's around these parts so I will have nothing to compare it to, which is a good thing sometimes as one won't have any preconceived ideas.

I think next Saturday evening will be my first opportunity to try this one, so update to follow later that evening.

Ray :)
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: curryhell on August 07, 2011, 02:36 PM
I think next Saturday evening will be my first opportunity to try this one, so update to follow later that evening.

So pleased you're going to try this one out Ray  ;).  I hope it measures up to the two recipes of yours that i have tried and am very taken with.  I look forward to your feedback and comments.  Always good to get unbiased view on a dish that is unfamiliar  :D.
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: Razor on August 07, 2011, 05:37 PM
Hi CH,

No problem mate, the dish looks amazing.  Gonna be honest with you though, the amount of chilli powder worries me.  I like a dish with a kick but hell, I think this will kick me into A&E with severe burns lol.

I will make 2 versions, the full chilli hit and a milder version, just incase I'm a bit too wimpy for the spec recipe ha,

Wish me luck

Ray :)
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: moonster on August 07, 2011, 06:18 PM
CH,Ray,

I am leaving this one well alone ;D ;D

The pics look amazing but you can see the heat oozing out ;D

It is something i would try a fork full off but make nah.

Moony the wimp :'(

Alan :)
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: curryhell on August 07, 2011, 11:28 PM
Guys, cut the chilli down to what suits you.  The North Indian Special is a medium strength dish.  My recipe is purely to get it to my liking ;D.  Feel free to adjust the chilli content to your tastes.  There is no requirement to add my specified amounts of chilli.  I'd hate to be responsible for putting someone in hospital, or for that matter needing chilled baby wipes the next morning ;D.  I look forward to feedback on the taste of the dish, not the events of the day after :o.  Hope you enjoy ;)
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: 976bar on August 08, 2011, 01:55 PM
I've just made a batch (3.5l) of Abdul's base, so will be making this tomorrow night now as I have Roast Chicken tonight :)
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: jb on August 08, 2011, 03:44 PM
Curryhell that looks spot on to me....very nice indeed!!!  Next curry feast I do that will certainly be on the menu.Glad you tried the Elachi,by the way have you tried the new Desi Restaurant in Grays??? (The old Thai place).Had a sit in meal and it was lovely(although I got a take away this weekend and it was really average-strange how it can be so different.)Anyway I thought of you whilst reading the menu,they do a dish called 'Bollywood Blast' containing naga chillis...phew!!!
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: 976bar on August 08, 2011, 04:29 PM
There's a restaurant near me that does a dish called, "The Berkshire Fire eater", which apparently is made from Naga Chilies. Some say.....

I'm no Stig and have no intention of having one of my 45 minute episodes of my diaphragm going into spasm's just to complete a "Man V Food" episode for Berkshire TV!!!

It makes me wonder how the guy who does that programme is still actually alive today having watched most of his series..... :)

Fair play.....
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: curryhell on August 08, 2011, 05:29 PM
I've just made a batch (3.5l) of Abdul's base, so will be making this tomorrow night now as I have Roast Chicken tonight :)

I look forward to a full report and any suggestions for improvement.  And pics of course ;D.  Roast chicken,curry? Curry, roast chicken,? :-\.  Why waste a good chicken when you can curry it  ;D
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: curryhell on August 08, 2011, 05:35 PM
It makes me wonder how the guy who does that programme is still actually alive today having watched most of his series..... :)

Fair play.....

I've watched a few of his programmes.  If he continues to consume at his current rate i'd say he's a good candidated for a heart attack!!!!  But what a way to go ;D.  I'm up for the "Bershire fire eater"  :P
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: curryhell on August 08, 2011, 05:52 PM
Curryhell that looks spot on to me....very nice indeed!!!  Next curry feast I do that will certainly be on the menu.Glad you tried the Elachi,by the way have you tried the new Desi Restaurant in Grays??? (The old Thai place).Had a sit in meal and it was lovely(although I got a take away this weekend and it was really average-strange how it can be so different.)Anyway I thought of you whilst reading the menu,they do a dish called 'Bollywood Blast' containing naga chillis...phew!!!

Hi JB. Have had positive feedback so far and will look forward to hearing yours as you are familiar with the real taste of the dish i am trying to master.  Must admit, it is a bit of a looker when done and tasty too, but is it close to Spice's????
As i said wasn't overly impressed by Elachi, particularly the unnecessary overdosing on food colouring :(.  I was impressed with the special fried rice though :P.  Had a takeaway from the Bilash at the weekend and their rice was very similar.  May need to try and emulate that one, curry was nothing special, saag aloo pretty standard, brinjal bahji absolutely desperate to the extent i ended up binning it :o.  Glad to hear good reports on the Desi.  Looked at the menu and thought it to be ok and prices comparable to Spice.  Glad you enjoyed your meal.  Clocked the Bollywood blast and will be ordering it with some extra heat when i get round to trying it which shouldn't be too long away now.  Funny you should say the takeaway was pretty average though.  A friend of mine had a one from Spice and said it wasn't as good as eating in!!!  Maybe the weekend isn't the best time to order when it's more a case of just firing it up and getting it out of the door?  Have got pappadum on my radar now for a TA ;D
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: 976bar on August 08, 2011, 06:06 PM


I look forward to a full report and any suggestions for improvement.  And pics of course ;D.  Roast chicken,curry? Curry, roast chicken,? :-\.  Why waste a good chicken when you can curry it  ;D
[/quote]

Funny you should say that, I've been toying with the idea of marinating a whole chicken with Tikka spices, then roasting it in the oven with some vegetables, then making a sauce to pour over the top once it's done....

Lay all that on a bed of rice and serve it as an Indian Platter......who knows?

Probably not BIR but who cares!! :)
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: curryhell on August 08, 2011, 06:28 PM

Funny you should say that, I've been toying with the idea of marinating a whole chicken with Tikka spices, then roasting it in the oven with some vegetables, then making a sauce to pour over the top once it's done....

Lay all that on a bed of rice and serve it as an Indian Platter......who knows?

Probably not BIR but who cares!! :)

Now you're talking.  The only good chicken is a curried one - even if done in the oven :D.  Enjoy and look forward to hearing your opinion on the NIS.
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: 976bar on August 09, 2011, 01:16 PM
Ok made this for lunch today and I am impressed :)

I used Abdul's base so hence you won't see the oil floating in the dish as there isn't that much in the base, which suits me better, and I only used 1 tsp of Rajah Extra Hot Curry powder along with the 5 green chilies.

I'm not usually a fan of "sweeter curries" so found 3 tsp of mango chutney a bit too much for my personal liking. But very tomatoey, garlicy and was nice with the pre-cooked Onion and green pepper.

Would I make this dish again? Most certainly, it was a nice refreshing change.

Would I make any changes to the dish?

I would reduce the amount of mango chutney to 2 tsp and then see if I need anymore lemon juice (just a personal preference for me as I like sour dishes more than sweet).

Probably increase the fresh garlic to 3 cloves which I slice not chop, and I might increase the Onion and pepper to half of each rather than a quarter.

The heat level was spot on for me.

Well done curryhell nice post of a recipe :)

(http://www.curry-recipes.co.uk/imagehost/pics/a5a9f1f48fcb5fd0c962a109657cbd61.JPG) (http://www.curry-recipes.co.uk/imagehost/#a5a9f1f48fcb5fd0c962a109657cbd61.JPG)
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: curryhell on August 09, 2011, 09:55 PM
Ok made this for lunch today and I am impressed :)


(http://www.curry-recipes.co.uk/imagehost/pics/a5a9f1f48fcb5fd0c962a109657cbd61.JPG) (http://www.curry-recipes.co.uk/imagehost/#a5a9f1f48fcb5fd0c962a109657cbd61.JPG)

So glad you enjoyed it 976 :D.  A reduction in oil is not always a bad thing.  I will try it with Abdul's base once I've thinned the freezer down a bit.  As for the chilli heat, that is always a personal thing and normally it is a medium dish, not the heat i like it  ;D. I don't mind the sweetness because it is offset by the souring agent.  I found that the mango chutney gave it a savoury sweetness not a sickly sweetness that using sugar can give, if overdone.  I used tamarind concentrate second time round rather than lemon juice and found it to be better than lemon juice.  I always find that lemon juice is very discernable when used in a dish.  The tamarind was a lot more subtle.  Upping the garlic content  :o.   I love the stuff so i will probably up it by double the amount once I've found the overall flavour i am looking for ;D ;D.  And i completely agree on doubling the onion and pepper content.  I would also suggest that if you can burn the onions and peppers at the edges when you're frying them off, do so since that's how they always appear when my local serves the dish up.
That's another thumbs up the NIS.  I await Razor's report now and JB's when he gets round to hosting another curry fest.
Thanks again for taking the trouble to try my recipe and the detailed feedback 976 :D
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: abdulmohed2002 on August 10, 2011, 12:09 AM
Pictures look lovely, i wanted to ask, did you use food colouring?

I have read the recipe and there has not been any food colouring mentioned but it looks quite red and I would like to know whether it is because of the chilli powder and tomato puree.

Thank you,

Abdul
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: 976bar on August 10, 2011, 06:32 AM
Hi Curryhell,

I always brown the edges of Onions and Peppers when cooking for an Indian dish, it gives it more flavour :)
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: 976bar on August 10, 2011, 06:34 AM
Hi Abdul,

I think you'll find it's the Tandoori Masala that gives the reddish colour obviously helped along by the tomato puree :)
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: curryhell on August 11, 2011, 10:53 PM
Hi Curryhell,

I always brown the edges of Onions and Peppers when cooking for an Indian dish, it gives it more flavour :)

I think i'll make it standard practice as well 976.  It certainly will add  additional flavour.
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: curryhell on August 11, 2011, 11:08 PM
Pictures look lovely, i wanted to ask, did you use food colouring?

I have read the recipe and there has not been any food colouring mentioned but it looks quite red and I would like to know whether it is because of the chilli powder and tomato puree.

Thank you,

Abdul

Not sure whether the question was directed at me or 976 Abdul or both.  I didn't use food colouring but as 976 said the tandoori massala may add some redness, although only one tsp was used when i produced the dish for the second time.  Probably more due to the tomato paste and chilli powder used in my version.   I'm not sure if Ramirez added any.  One BIR I've had this dish from certainly adds food colouring to this dish, unnecessary in my option.
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: Ramirez on August 12, 2011, 09:07 AM
I didn't use food colouring in mine - the redness probably comes from the tomato puree and tandoori masala (which will contain food colouring).
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: madmatt on October 28, 2011, 09:51 AM
Hiya CH,

Made this last night, with the only difference from the original recipe being I used 2.5 tsp Deggi Mirch chilli powder.

It was very nice, and about vindaloo heat, if not more.

Thanks for the recipe.

Matt
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: Razor on October 28, 2011, 11:36 AM
Hi CH,

I'm going to give this a try tonight.  I will opt for the 2 tbsp of chilli powder rather than the 4 ::) (I know my limits) Just on the tandoori masala, you say that you use your own but any will do! Do you have a recipe for your own available as I would like to be true to the dish.  I do have some Rajah TM but, it always has a garam masala hint to it, which I don't always want in a dish.  I think Cory Ander uses the Bruce Edwards TM recipe which does contain some red food colouring, and was wondering if you were using the same?

Before I start anything though, have you settled on this recipe now (updated version)

The mango Chutney, I only have 'Pataks Sweet Mango Chutney' in, will that be ok?

Concentrate Tamarind, I have a bottle of Maggi Tamarina, would that be ok if I upped to 1 tsp?

Ray :)
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: curryhell on October 28, 2011, 06:19 PM
Hiya CH,

Made this last night, with the only difference from the original recipe being I used 2.5 tsp Deggi Mirch chilli powder.

It was very nice, and about vindaloo heat, if not more.

Thanks for the recipe.

Matt

Hi Matt.  Now that looks pretty damn good.  Thanks for trying the recipe.  The chilli content is entirely down to the individual.  Just because i like gunpowder, doesn't mean everybody else will  :o.  Glad you enjoyed it.   Rice looks good too ;D
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: curryhell on October 28, 2011, 06:47 PM
Hi CH,

I'm going to give this a try tonight.  I will opt for the 2 tbsp of chilli powder rather than the 4 ::) (I know my limits) Just on the tandoori masala, you say that you use your own but any will do! Do you have a recipe for your own available as I would like to be true to the dish.  I do have some Rajah TM but, it always has a garam masala hint to it, which I don't always want in a dish.  I think Cory Ander uses the Bruce Edwards TM recipe which does contain some red food colouring, and was wondering if you were using the same?

Before I start anything though, have you settled on this recipe now (updated version)

The mango Chutney, I only have 'Pataks Sweet Mango Chutney' in, will that be ok?

Concentrate Tamarind, I have a bottle of Maggi Tamarina, would that be ok if I upped to 1 tsp?

Ray :)

Hi Ray.  Hope i'm not too late in replying.  I am kind of settled on the recipe now, having tried mine side by side with the leftovers from a meal in the restaurant the other week.  I thought mine was better :o :o. Will be carrying out this comparison again very shortly just to make sure. I think something must have gone wrong ;D.  Anyway, the only real change, an oversight by me when i first tried to emulate the dish, was to omit the chopped onion. I will update the recipe.  Add half a chopped / diced onion after frying the garlic / ginger (another cock up, didn't have any ginger  in my first attempt) and cook till soft then carry on with the rest of the recipe.  The mango chutney you have is perfect for the job. It's what i use.  I did try ordinary and found that it made the dish a bit tart and not as tasty.  I do puree the chutney down with some water though so that it is just pourable.  That is why i use three tsps.  Not pureed i would use 2 tsps.  Re the tamarind, i wish i could get the more liquid variety rather than the tar looking stuff.  I think a tsp will be fine given that the concentrate is labelled "triple concentrate" and i have now reduced what i add to a 1/4 tsp.  Hope this helps.  It'll give you something to read while i dig out my TM recipe and type it up for you.
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: curryhell on October 28, 2011, 06:53 PM
This is the TM i use.  I find it very tasty but not overpowering and is a good all rounder. Probably no better than some here though :D

Tandoori Masala
Ingredients:
Method:
Mix the ingredients and store in an airtight container.

3 tablespoons Ground Coriander
3 tablespoons Ground Cumin
3 tablespoons Garlic Powder
3 tablespoons Paprika
5 teaspoons Ground Ginger
5 teaspoons Mango Powder
5 teaspoons Dried Mint
3 teaspoons Chilli Powder
1 teaspoon Red Food Colouring Powder

Can't remember  where i got this from and who deserves the credit but it works for me 8)

Good luck with the NIS  Ray, hope you enjoy the dish.  It ranks as one of my personal favourites and i don't need all finger of one hand to count them. Look forward to your feedback and the pics soon.
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: jb on October 28, 2011, 07:28 PM
'having tried mine side by side with the leftovers from a meal in the restaurant the other week.  I thought mine was better'

Blimey curryhell if you have achieved that I've definitely got to give this one a go!!! Went to Spices last week had NI Special amongst other things it was fantastic(couldn't quite manage phall strength though!!)
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: Razor on October 28, 2011, 07:33 PM
Hi CH,

Brilliant, and thanks for the reply and the TM mix.  It's come a little too late for me tonight (I have my Jal Frezi on the go as I type) but no worries mate.  I will do it tomorrow night.  I didn't have any chicken tikka in anyway, only normal pre cooked stuff.

I'll try to get to grips with my camera too and take a few snaps.

Ray :)
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: curryhell on October 28, 2011, 07:37 PM
'having tried mine side by side with the leftovers from a meal in the restaurant the other week.  I thought mine was better'

Blimey curryhell if you have achieved that I've definitely got to give this one a go!!! Went to Spices last week had NI Special amongst other things it was fantastic(couldn't quite manage phall strength though!!)

That's why i said i need to repeat the test :o :o :o.  Maybe i was influenced by the Leffe i had drunk :-\ :-\ ;D.  They achieve the phall strength by frying dried red chilli, grinding them and adding it to my dish.  It gives it  a distinct aroma and taste.  I was impressed with my efforts though but it would be great to get your opinion as you know only too well the basic taste i am after ;D  To get a thumbs up from you jb would be the icing on the cake really 8) 8)
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: curryhell on October 28, 2011, 07:43 PM
Hi CH,

Brilliant, and thanks for the reply and the TM mix.  It's come a little too late for me tonight (I have my Jal Frezi on the go as I type) but no worries mate.  I will do it tomorrow night.  I didn't have any chicken tikka in anyway, only normal pre cooked stuff.

I'll try to get to grips with my camera too and take a few snaps.

Ray :)

Sorry Ray,  Didn't get home till late tonight.  Enjoy that jalfrezi of yours.  Chick Tikka is a must with the NIS dish as it seems to enhance the flavour even more.  Maybe we'll have  a blow by blow critique with evidence tomorrow  ;D

Dave
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: Razor on October 28, 2011, 08:09 PM
Hi CH,

Quote
Chick Tikka is a must with the NIS dish as it seems to enhance the flavour even more

My thoughts too, and I will use blades recipe like you do, even though I do have my own.

My mate, fat Paul, who usually eats a stinking hot Vindy, is coming around tomorrow night for his usual 'free' monthly feed.  Now I'm not even gonna try and get an indication of how good it is from him because, to be honest, I could deep fry a whole potato smothered in chilli powder and he would still say that it was awesome (he's a proper dick lol) but, if I do eventually wimp out of finishing the dish, I know he will scoff it like there's no tomorrow.  I will have a wimpy madras on standby ha :D

I'm really looking forward to doing it now, and wished I'd have waited for your response.

Ray :)
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: curryhell on October 29, 2011, 01:31 AM
Hi CH,

Quote
Chick Tikka is a must with the NIS dish as it seems to enhance the flavour even more

My thoughts too, and I will use blades recipe like you do, even though I do have my own.

My mate, fat Paul, who usually eats a stinking hot Vindy, is coming around tomorrow night for his usual 'free' monthly feed.  Now I'm not even gonna try and get an indication of how good it is from him because, to be honest, I could deep fry a whole potato smothered in chilli powder and he would still say that it was awesome (he's a proper dick lol) but, if I do eventually wimp out of finishing the dish, I know he will scoff it like there's no tomorrow.  I will have a wimpy madras on standby ha :D

I'm really looking forward to doing it now, and wished I'd have waited for your response.

Ray :)

 ;D ;D Now that made me smile Ray. But if you cook the dish to the normal strength which is medium you won't end up feeding it to your mate (he's a very lucky fella by the way  :D).  NIS is a  medium dish it's just that my local made it very hot for me.  I'd sooner you scale the chilli down to what you would normally have and enjoy the flavour of the dish than have it how i like it and not get the benefit of the flavour.   I'd much sooner have an honest opinion on a dish with one/two tsp of chilli that can be appreciated than a vague recollection from someone whose mouth was on fire after three mouthfulls.  The chilli / heat content can vary but the flavour of the dish remains.  Chilli heat is just  a personal thing.  Whatever you do, i look forward to your feedback mate.  Hope you enjoy  ;)
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: natterjak on November 18, 2011, 07:33 PM
Just wondering if this dish bears any relation to the Rajasthani Special which my favourite local takeaway has added to their menu.  It's described as follows:

Chicken, lamb OR prawn. A Northwest Indian speciality, cooked with ginger, garlic, whole red chillies, tomatoes, green pepper & a touch of fresh coriander, creating an exotic hot & spicy flavour
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: curryhell on November 18, 2011, 08:42 PM
Just wondering if this dish bears any relation to the Rajasthani Special which my favourite local takeaway has added to their menu.  It's described as follows:

Chicken, lamb OR prawn. A Northwest Indian speciality, cooked with ginger, garlic, whole red chillies, tomatoes, green pepper & a touch of fresh coriander, creating an exotic hot & spicy flavour

That sounds pretty close.  One restaurant describes it as "Fairly hot cooked with garlic, herbs, green chillies and sour spices".  Give it a go.  Your local TA may not see you so often then ;D
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: bamble1976 on November 22, 2011, 09:45 AM
Hi Curryhell

Will be having a go at this this weekend.  Have you tweaked the recipe anymore yet or are you fairly much happy with it as is at the moment?

Regards

Barry
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: curryhell on November 22, 2011, 05:09 PM
Hi Curryhell

Will be having a go at this this weekend.  Have you tweaked the recipe anymore yet or are you fairly much happy with it as is at the moment?

Regards

Barry
Hi Barry.  I have made some minor tweaks to the recipe.  I don't want to post them until i think i am there though as i have already posted one revision.  I will PM them to you if you wish or just go with the first revision with the changes highlighted in red.
Look forward to hearing your views on it mate.
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: bamble1976 on December 06, 2011, 07:30 PM
Hi Curryhell

Made this last wkd.  I have never had a north indian special so nothing to go on.

First thoughts........bloody hot :o  I am usually a madras/mild vindaloo man but i thought I would try exactly to spec.  Next time I will half the chilli powder.

Secondly the taste.  A lovely sweet curry with no hint of the tamarind or mango chutney on its on with the flavours blending well.  Also a more subtle sweetness than just adding sugar if that makes sense!

Finally, the tandoori masala was possibly a tad overpowering the dish?  I am not sure if this should be one of the forefront flavours?  It could also be my T.M (Rajahs)?

I will definitly be making again with my only changes being the chilli powder halved and T.M down to 0.75 tsp.

Cheers for a very nice recipe :)

regards

Barry

p.s. will post pics next time!
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: curryhell on December 06, 2011, 08:02 PM
Hi Curryhell

Made this last wkd.  I have never had a north indian special so nothing to go on.

First thoughts........bloody hot :o  I am usually a madras/mild vindaloo man but i thought I would try exactly to spec.  Next time I will half the chilli powder.

Secondly the taste.  A lovely sweet curry with no hint of the tamarind or mango chutney on its on with the flavours blending well.  Also a more subtle sweetness than just adding sugar if that makes sense!

Finally, the tandoori masala was possibly a tad overpowering the dish?  I am not sure if this should be one of the forefront flavours?  It could also be my T.M (Rajahs)?

I will definitly be making again with my only changes being the chilli powder halved and T.M down to 0.75 tsp.

Cheers for a very nice recipe :)

regards

Barry

p.s. will post pics next time!

Glad you enjoyed it Barry.  Don't make it again just yet ;).  I'm gonna post the final cut of the recipe in the next day or so with a couple of revisions which I think give me exactly what i'm looking for.  Re the chilli powder, the level is for my own personal taste.  The dish is a medium hot dish normally so probably 1 to 1.5 tsp of chilli would be the norm.  And agree that the the dish has a savoury sweetness but not the sickly sweet taste associated with the addition of sugar.  I use my own TM mixture rather than a bought one and i think i've read before that Rajah TM can be a  bit overpowering so cutting it by 50% would be  a good starting point.  The tandoori taste should only be  in the background and not "in your face".  Thanks for trying the dish and the feedback.  Shame there was no pics :(.  Watch this space for the update 8)
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: curryhell on December 19, 2011, 10:30 PM
Ok, so here is the long awaited update.  Later than I
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: jb on December 20, 2011, 09:30 AM
Well Done!!! :) I know you've put a lot of hard work in cracking that one.It looks wonderful.I actually polished off the remnants of an Elachi North Indian last night.I agree I can now see where 'that' taste comes from that I was trying to describe,I was sure I could detect small flecks of mint whilst eating it.I always make the pakora sauce when I serve papadams,I think it's very addictive;Gazman's recipe is identical to the dip served in Spices,many thanks for completing the puzzle.It's funny such a tasty dish is achieved by something so simple.Must try this asap :)
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: curryhell on December 20, 2011, 06:59 PM
Well Done!!! :) I know you've put a lot of hard work in cracking that one.It looks wonderful.I actually polished off the remnants of an Elachi North Indian last night.I agree I can now see where 'that' taste comes from that I was trying to describe,I was sure I could detect small flecks of mint whilst eating it.I always make the pakora sauce when I serve papadams,I think it's very addictive;Gazman's recipe is identical to the dip served in Spices,many thanks for completing the puzzle.It's funny such a tasty dish is achieved by something so simple.Must try this asap :)

Cheers JB.  Wasn't sure how you got on with Gaz's recipe as i didn't see any further comments.  But the recipe does for sure contain all the right ingredients to make it just the same as Spice - another one nailed ;D. And when i see that bit of coloured onion peeking out from under the sauce I almost lept off the chair and new i just had to try it as soon as poss.  It then made me think of bamble's recipe with the optional inclusion of it :D.   And again last week when i was in there i was rooting through the dish and found loads of evidence 8).  Last night was the first opportuity i have had to give it a go and i am suitably impressed, which is very unusal.  I will be doing a sober side by side comparison next week and will provide some sort of report.
Off topic, the week before last i tried the Dhesi and their Bollywood Burner with chicken tikka, mushroom rice (put off the special by the inclusion of chic peas :o) and brinjal bhaji.  Main dish was tasty but not hot by my standards.  The nearest thing it had come to a naga was a mention of it on the menu :'(. The rice was almost devoid of mushrooms, the occasional miniscule fungi here and there, and i mean very very small and in very short supply >:(.  But at least the brinjal was comparable.  Would i go back, yes but my first preference will always be for Spice.
Look forward to your feedback when you get chance to cook my version of the NIS.  Merry Xmas and all the best for the New Year.
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: jb on December 21, 2011, 10:02 AM
Well Done!!! :) I know you've put a lot of hard work in cracking that one.It looks wonderful.I actually polished off the remnants of an Elachi North Indian last night.I agree I can now see where 'that' taste comes from that I was trying to describe,I was sure I could detect small flecks of mint whilst eating it.I always make the pakora sauce when I serve papadams,I think it's very addictive;Gazman's recipe is identical to the dip served in Spices,many thanks for completing the puzzle.It's funny such a tasty dish is achieved by something so simple.Must try this asap :)

Cheers JB.  Wasn't sure how you got on with Gaz's recipe as i didn't see any further comments.  But the recipe does for sure contain all the right ingredients to make it just the same as Spice - another one nailed ;D. And when i see that bit of coloured onion peeking out from under the sauce I almost lept off the chair and new i just had to try it as soon as poss.  It then made me think of bamble's recipe with the optional inclusion of it :D.   And again last week when i was in there i was rooting through the dish and found loads of evidence 8).  Last night was the first opportuity i have had to give it a go and i am suitably impressed, which is very unusal.  I will be doing a sober side by side comparison next week and will provide some sort of report.
Off topic, the week before last i tried the Dhesi and their Bollywood Burner with chicken tikka, mushroom rice (put off the special by the inclusion of chic peas :o) and brinjal bhaji.  Main dish was tasty but not hot by my standards.  The nearest thing it had come to a naga was a mention of it on the menu :'(. The rice was almost devoid of mushrooms, the occasional miniscule fungi here and there, and i mean very very small and in very short supply >:(.  But at least the brinjal was comparable.  Would i go back, yes but my first preference will always be for Spice.
Look forward to your feedback when you get chance to cook my version of the NIS.  Merry Xmas and all the best for the New Year.

Yep can't beat Spices for a sit-in.Must admit I wasn't that impressed with the Dhesi...it was just ok.I see the curry house at the Orsett Cock is now open that's next on my list.That NIS sure does look good!!!!  All the best
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: abdulmohed2002 on December 21, 2011, 07:39 PM
That looks absolutely delicious!!  :D :D

Well done on hitting the flavour which you sought!

Abdul
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: curryhell on December 21, 2011, 08:04 PM
That looks absolutely delicious!!  :D :D

Well done on hitting the flavour which you sought!

Abdul
Indeed it was very tasty and not overly hot.Take some of the credit Abdul. Your base and spice mix ;D
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: PaulP on December 21, 2011, 08:07 PM
Yes it does look delicious and I've also cooked some tasty curries with Abdul's base.

Cheers,

Paul
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: bamble1976 on December 24, 2011, 08:57 AM
Hi curryhell.

That looks the business!!! will be trying again soon with your tweaks!  i love how such a simple single ingredient addition can get a dish to what you are looking for.  will report back when tried.

Cheers

barry
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: curryhell on December 24, 2011, 09:16 AM
Hi curryhell.

That looks the business!!! will be trying again soon with your tweaks!  i love how such a simple single ingredient addition can get a dish to what you are looking for.  will report back when tried.

Cheers

barry
Cheers Barry.  I was happy with it having made a few adjustments, but when i discovered the spicey onions in it i knew i had to tweak it some more.  It simply means i'll be adding them to your chef's special next time round to see what sort of difference they make to an already damn tasty dish ;D.  I'll be doing a side by side test next week with the dish from my local to see how close or not i really am.  Look forward to hearing what you think of it second time round with the "special" ingredient.  All the best for Xmas and the New Year.
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: Razor on December 24, 2011, 10:49 AM
Hi CH,

I'm so sorry mate, I still haven't had a chance to try this one but if this is your final cut, then I guess hanging back was no bad thing, especially now you believe that you have cracked it.

It does remind me very much of a good Jal Frezi in parts, then the addition of mango and pakora dipping sauce takes it further on.  I'm guessing that this dish is going to be rich, sweet and spicey?

It looks really good, and it should be because I know how much effort that you have put in to crack this one.

Very well done my friend 8)

The tandoori masala, is it your own or a branded variety?  I ask because your dish looks quite a deep red, something similar I would say to my rogan josh but I do use colouring in that and you have no mention of it in your list of ingredients?  I know some TM's do have red food colouring in them, hence the question.

Ray :)
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: curryhell on December 24, 2011, 11:20 AM
Hi CH,

I'm so sorry mate, I still haven't had a chance to try this one but if this is your final cut, then I guess hanging back was no bad thing, especially now you believe that you have cracked it.

It does remind me very much of a good Jal Frezi in parts, then the addition of mango and pakora dipping sauce takes it further on.  I'm guessing that this dish is going to be rich, sweet and spicey?

It looks really good, and it should be because I know how much effort that you have put in to crack this one.

Very well done my friend 8)

The tandoori masala, is it your own or a branded variety?  I ask because your dish looks quite a deep red, something similar I would say to my rogan josh but I do use colouring in that and you have no mention of it in your list of ingredients?  I know some TM's do have red food colouring in them, hence the question.

Ray :)
Hi Ray.  I think i have gone as far as i can with it.  I know i am enjoying eating it ;D and will be doing a side by side comparison next week which will confirm if i have any more work to do.  Sure you'll get round to trying it next year mate.  The spicey onions were the missing ingredient.  Re. taste it kind of boarders on the sweet to savoury IMO.  I wouldn't say it was rich like CTM but it does have plenty of body to it.   I scaled back on the chutney as the spicey onions also contain this.  My tandoori masala is in the thread and does contain red food colouring.  The redness has increased because of the inclusion of the spicey onions but unlike your rogan it's not red but a rich reddish brown.  Never having had a jalfrezi from a BIR i'm not sure how it compares but with the onions and chillis there's going to be a resemblence.
Next up South Indian Garlic Chicken,  will this curry milarky never end ;D.  There's a couple of dishes i want to try first from the site before i embark on this venture though. Have good Xmas mate and happy currying in 2012.
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: jamieb728 on March 03, 2012, 05:48 PM
Hi CH

Gonna finaly get round to making your version of this tomorrow quick question the tamarind at 0.25 is that tsp or tbsp

cheers
jamie
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: curryhell on March 03, 2012, 05:53 PM
That is 0.25 of a TEASPOON Jamie.  Look forward to the feedback mate.  Hope you enjoy  ;D
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: jamieb728 on March 05, 2012, 04:43 PM
Hi CH

Finally got round to making it and it was fantastic i even kept the chilli level which may have affected my taste buds and my arse :'( will be making it again in the week ill try and get some pics next time

Jamie
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: curryhell on March 05, 2012, 05:09 PM
Hi CH

Finally got round to making it and it was fantastic i even kept the chilli level which may have affected my taste buds and my arse :'( will be making it again in the week ill try and get some pics next time

Jamie
Glad you enjoyed it Jamie ;).  You can now scale back the chilli to your own taste, or scale up if you dare  :o :o ;D If you do make it again in the week, post up a couple of pics to show how it looked.
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: curryhell on March 11, 2012, 12:01 PM
I haven't cooked my NIS since the Zaal experience as i've been too busy trying to perfect my singeing technique with a bit of "shake and scrape"  on Az's phall recipe with varying degrees of success ???.  Having withdrawl symptoms, yesterday I decided to knock one up using my Zaal base and mix powder to see if there were any marked differences compared to previous efforts using other gravies and mix powders.  So as not to introduce any more variables i used cooking oil as  I have before, rather than using veg ghee which is what i currently use for the phall recipe.  Here's a pic of the end result, IMO looking every bit as good as before. 

(http://www.curry-recipes.co.uk/imagehost/pics/a83cc61404088366836b3167dcc6d205.jpg) (http://www.curry-recipes.co.uk/imagehost/#a83cc61404088366836b3167dcc6d205.jpg)

(http://www.curry-recipes.co.uk/imagehost/pics/829c9c904a4b9d86f18619bf37656ea0.jpg) (http://www.curry-recipes.co.uk/imagehost/#829c9c904a4b9d86f18619bf37656ea0.jpg)

Taste wise, there didn't seem to be that much of the peppery overtones i would normally expect and there was a tomato taste coming through :o.
Now, having cooked this a few times you would have thought I'd be getting pretty consistent results and the recipe should be ingrained in memory.  I could excuse the lack of peppery taste, either an inferior quality pepper, purchased from tesco whereas normally i get my peppers from my local asian store, or i hadn't cooked the dish for long enough after its addition to release the flavour.  But the tomato flavour was puzzling me.  It couldn't be the base as the Zaal base contains a minimal amount compared to other bases i had used in the past to make this dish.
Why i decided to look at my NIS post, i don't know, as i should be able to cook this recipe in my sleep, but i did and found a GLARING error.

- 2 tbsp tomato paste (triple concentrate) dilute with 6 tbsp water
It should read

2 tbsp tomato paste (triple concentrate) ALREADY diluteD with 6 tbsp water

Not that i added 8tbs of diluted tomato paste  ??? but i wouldn' t want anybody trying the recipe to do this ;D
I added 2tbs (sometimes i add only 1 1/2 ).  However, i did find that in my haste I had missed what now turns out to be  a key ingredient to the flavour of the dish - tandoori masala.   I had completely forgotten this when getting the spices ready ??? :(
My excuse is it's got to be an age thing :)  But i will be making it again in the week just to get a true comparison against the Zaal base, having seriously cocked up on this occasion :o.  Just means i'll have to eat yet another curry during the week :(. This curry malarky is hard work ;D
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: loveitspicy on March 11, 2012, 02:02 PM
Well CH me ald

what a great looking curry!!! just makes you want to dig a spoon in for a taste

best, Rich
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: Stephen Lindsay on March 11, 2012, 03:26 PM
Looks great CH!
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: jb on March 11, 2012, 07:52 PM
That looks damn good to me!!
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: curryhell on March 11, 2012, 08:12 PM
Don't get me wrong it was a nice curry but below par to any of the previous NIS's that i've made  >:(.  I still can't believe that 1 tsp of tandoori masalla can make such a difference.  That coupled with not cooking in the precooked peppers and onions for long enough completed changed the flavour ???  It's a mistake i won't be making again ;)
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: ELW on March 11, 2012, 08:19 PM
4 tbsp chilli powder (or more to taste) &  5 fresh  :o

am I reading that right?  :)
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: curryhell on March 11, 2012, 08:25 PM
4 tbsp chilli powder (or more to taste) &  5 fresh  :o

am I reading that right?  :)
I do like it hot ELW 8).  But now i know how to get the heat out of the chilli powder using my singeing skills, my final version of the recipe on page 8 of the thread will have  a lot more appeal - only 1 tbs.  That doesn't stop me adding some fried crushed red chillis for a little bit more poke and an extra little twist  :D.
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: Salvador Dhali on March 12, 2012, 11:41 AM
4 tbsp chilli powder (or more to taste) &  5 fresh  :o

am I reading that right?  :)
I do like it hot ELW 8).  But now i know how to get the heat out of the chilli powder using my singeing skills, my final version of the recipe on page 8 of the thread will have  a lot more appeal - only 1 tbs.  That doesn't stop me adding some fried crushed red chillis for a little bit more poke and an extra little twist  :D.

4tbsp plus 5 fresh chillies! Sheesh! I thought I was a chilli fiend! 

Maybe in my youth I could have handled it, but not now. The comparatively mild phal is my limit these days.

But, curryhell, seeing how you apparently have a stomach lining composed entirely from space shuttle re-entry tiles, or perhaps a substance that has yet to be added to the periodic table, perhaps you'd like to try a dish that I created for a crazy mate who likes to chew on nagas for recreational pleasure.

I call it the Murgh Meltdown, which comprises succulent double organic hand reared Poulet de Bresse from the Rh
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: curryhell on March 12, 2012, 05:42 PM
4 tbsp chilli powder (or more to taste) &  5 fresh  :o

am I reading that right?  :)
I do like it hot ELW 8).  But now i know how to get the heat out of the chilli powder using my singeing skills, my final version of the recipe on page 8 of the thread will have  a lot more appeal - only 1 tbs.  That doesn't stop me adding some fried crushed red chillis for a little bit more poke and an extra little twist  :D.

4tbsp plus 5 fresh chillies! Sheesh! I thought I was a chilli fiend! 

Maybe in my youth I could have handled it, but not now. The comparatively mild phal is my limit these days.

But, curryhell, seeing how you apparently have a stomach lining composed entirely from space shuttle re-entry tiles, or perhaps a substance that has yet to be added to the periodic table, perhaps you'd like to try a dish that I created for a crazy mate who likes to chew on nagas for recreational pleasure.

I call it the Murgh Meltdown, which comprises succulent double organic hand reared Poulet de Bresse from the Rh
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: Salvador Dhali on March 12, 2012, 06:10 PM
4 tbsp chilli powder (or more to taste) &  5 fresh  :o

am I reading that right?  :)
I do like it hot ELW 8).  But now i know how to get the heat out of the chilli powder using my singeing skills, my final version of the recipe on page 8 of the thread will have  a lot more appeal - only 1 tbs.  That doesn't stop me adding some fried crushed red chillis for a little bit more poke and an extra little twist  :D.

4tbsp plus 5 fresh chillies! Sheesh! I thought I was a chilli fiend! 

Maybe in my youth I could have handled it, but not now. The comparatively mild phal is my limit these days.

But, curryhell, seeing how you apparently have a stomach lining composed entirely from space shuttle re-entry tiles, or perhaps a substance that has yet to be added to the periodic table, perhaps you'd like to try a dish that I created for a crazy mate who likes to chew on nagas for recreational pleasure.

I call it the Murgh Meltdown, which comprises succulent double organic hand reared Poulet de Bresse from the Rh
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: curryhell on March 12, 2012, 06:24 PM

Sorry curryhell - I made the dish up in your honour just for a bit of fun.

I didn't invent the Mad Dog 44 Magnum Pepper Extract, however. Apparently it puts U.S. Police grade pepper spray into the shade!  :o :o :o

Think I'll give it a miss - but I am going to make this North Indian Special. Sounds and looks fantastic....
And i thought it had loads of potential  :P :-\ ::).  Mughi Napalm, got kind of a ring to it  ;D. Never tried the Mad Dog 44 and there are others similar and one or two hotter still.  I find the other two provide more than enough heat when called upon to do so ::).  Do give it a try SD.  Use the final cut of my recipe on page 8 or 9 of the thread i think but avoid my howler or 2tbs tomato concentrate diluted with 6tbs water.  The dish only needs 1-2 tbs of pre-diluted paste.  And adjust chilli powder to taste.  Look forward to the feedback ;)
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: ELW on March 12, 2012, 08:26 PM
some of the names of those sauces are brilliant:

Blair's Possible Side Effects
Dave's Insanity Private Reserve (Dave who?)
Blairs 6am, (that must be what time it wears off or is just about to begin)
 
& my favourite;
Spontaneous Combustion Powder

I'd love to serve the North Indian up on Masterchef  :)
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: Whandsy on March 28, 2012, 05:19 PM
Not familiar with this dish CH as i usually stick to the old jalfrezi, but i'm gonna give it a whirl tonight as it does look and sound delish!
1 question though, is page 8 of this thread the final draft of this dish :)

W
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: curryhell on March 28, 2012, 05:28 PM
Not familiar with this dish CH as i usually stick to the old jalfrezi, but i'm gonna give it a whirl tonight as it does look and sound delish!
1 question though, is page 8 of this thread the final draft of this dish :)

W
Page 8 is indeed the final draft W.  Just beware my mistake on the tomato paste qty.  Recipe should read 2 tbs of already diluted tom paste ( 1 part paste to 2 parts water).  It could be misinterpreted in the recipe.  I have clarified this a little later on in the post on page 9.  Hope you enjoy it W.  Look forward to feed back and pictures a little later.  Out of interest which tandoori masala are you going to use??
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: Whandsy on March 28, 2012, 05:34 PM
Not familiar with this dish CH as i usually stick to the old jalfrezi, but i'm gonna give it a whirl tonight as it does look and sound delish!
1 question though, is page 8 of this thread the final draft of this dish :)

W
Page 8 is indeed the final draft W.  Just beware my mistake on the tomato paste qty.  Recipe should read 2 tbs of already diluted tom paste ( 1 part paste to 2 parts water).  It could be misinterpreted in the recipe.  I have clarified this a little later on in the post on page 9.  Hope you enjoy it W.  Look forward to feed back and pictures a little later.  Out of interest which tandoori masala are you going to use??

I have the rajah tandoori masala CH, will report back later :)
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: curryhell on March 28, 2012, 05:40 PM

I have the rajah tandoori masala CH, will report back later :)

Ere on the side of caution and reduce  tandoori masala to 1/2 tsp then W, as someone else said that the Rajah TM they used stood out.  The TM should be in the backround. I have been making my own for years so i have  a good idea on how it affects the flavour of dishes.  It's posted in the thread somewhere. Good luck and good singeing.  May just order one from the TA tonight for a treat ;D.  Look forward to the report.

Jamieb728 certainly did it justice the other day.  Some mouth watering pics of his NIS here:
http://www.curry-recipes.co.uk/curry/index.php?topic=8139.0 (http://www.curry-recipes.co.uk/curry/index.php?topic=8139.0)

And for the Taz base enthusiasts there is a carefully crafted  recipe by Stephen Lindsay here with the normal curry porn included:
http://www.curry-recipes.co.uk/curry/index.php?topic=7831.msg68495#msg68495 (http://www.curry-recipes.co.uk/curry/index.php?topic=7831.msg68495#msg68495)
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: Whandsy on March 28, 2012, 09:01 PM
As promised some pictures of CH's NIS.

I was very pleasantly surprised and impressed with this dish CH ;). I didn't really know what to expect with the addition of a few of the sweetening ingredients (gaz's onions and mango chutney) along with the tamarind paste. This dish tasted superb and not at all too sweet :o. Its nice that the spiced onions come through slightly as an aftertaste along with the softened onions and the general spiciness of the dish.

I have to admit that i did wimp out on the chilli amount, i used a heaped tsp of deggi mirch along with 3 chopped chillis and 2 whole chillis halved :-\
In case anybodys wondering about the oil separation, it happened about 2 mins after i took the pics before tucking in :)
I could actually stand to go a bit hotter and will do next time ;)
This is a dish i WILL make again

Thanks CH

Wayne

(http://i1258.photobucket.com/albums/ii521/Whands/e951aceb.jpg)
(http://i1258.photobucket.com/albums/ii521/Whands/33f18213.jpg)
(http://i1258.photobucket.com/albums/ii521/Whands/0ac3aa90.jpg)
(http://i1258.photobucket.com/albums/ii521/Whands/c59e9b2c.jpg)
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: curryhell on March 29, 2012, 07:19 AM
Just gone 7.00 in the morning and i'm dribbling and dreweling already  :P :P.  Well done W.  Your NIS is looking good mate.  Glad you liked the flavour(s).  For those who are unfamiliar with it, as it doesn't featuring on every TA menus, the dish is full of different flavours as the ingredients would suggest.  The taste is complex as you identify  the flavour of many of the ingredients individually as well as the overall taste of them merged together.  I can only describe it as  a flavour explosion in the mouth  :P. As for the heat content via the chilli powder, down to personal taste, although some would say I can't have much of that left now after all these years of eating molten lava  ;D
Thanks for giving it a go Whandsy and feeding back with some more curry porn for us porn lovers ;D
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: Terramamba on March 31, 2012, 06:02 PM
Hi all!  ;D

Just cooked this fantastic dish tonight. WOWZEROONIE! May not find that word in the OED, but I think you'll get my meaning! The depth of flavour was amazing, heat levels at scorching, lovely jubbly! BIR taste - sadly not quite, but I'm pleased with my first attempt at this dish :)

Curry porn to follow tomorrow as it's pub time  8)
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: Unclebuck on March 31, 2012, 07:49 PM
(http://i1258.photobucket.com/albums/ii521/Whands/c59e9b2c.jpg)

That looks bang on! well done feller!
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: curryhell on March 31, 2012, 07:54 PM
Hi all!  ;D

Just cooked this fantastic dish tonight. WOWZEROONIE! May not find that word in the OED, but I think you'll get my meaning! The depth of flavour was amazing, heat levels at scorching, lovely jubbly! BIR taste - sadly not quite, but I'm pleased with my first attempt at this dish :)

Curry porn to follow tomorrow as it's pub time  8)
Thanks for trying the dish and reporting back.  Love the new descriptive for the NIS  ;D  Glad it hit the spot Terramamba and am looking forward to viewing the curry porn tomorrow ::)  Must go myself now as i too need to go to the pub 8)
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: Whandsy on March 31, 2012, 11:38 PM

That looks bang on! well done feller!

Thanks unclebuck, credit to CH's recipe it was superb, i took the remainder into work next day and everybody said they'd happily pay for that over their local takeaway, and in true BIR style it did seem to taste even better the next morning :)

W
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: jamieb728 on April 01, 2012, 07:09 AM
Hi all
Looks fantastic W glad more people are trying the recipe now

jamie
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: curryhell on April 01, 2012, 09:51 AM

That looks bang on! well done feller!

Thanks unclebuck, credit to CH's recipe it was superb, i took the remainder into work next day and everybody said they'd happily pay for that over their local takeaway, and in true BIR style it did seem to taste even better the next morning :)

W

Bloody hell W, you obviously did an excellent job the other day ;D.  The proof of your pics was definitely in the eating and it did taste every bit as good as it looked ;D. That's a pretty high accolade from your work colleagues so feel free to take a well earned bow mate  ;)
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: Terramamba on April 01, 2012, 01:49 PM
This recipe is brilliant, IMO, scorching hot, depth of flavour and returning to the kitchen I got that wonderful aroma, similar to BIR. Credit to Curryhell for putting together the recipe :)

Chicken Tikka as per Blade's recipe, chicken left to marinate for 48 hours only because of time/work deadlines. Cooked in the halogen, unfortunately my skewers are too long for using here, but didn't seem to affect the flavour, not all the chicken made it into the curry! Had to try some and I was mightily surprised at how awesome it tasted despite no yoghurt, just as well as I'd forgotten to buy it anyway! Halogen on full temp 250C, 5 minutes each side. You may notice the chicken is thigh, not breast, it was cheaper!  ;)

(http://www.curry-recipes.co.uk/imagehost/pics/b9e1be84e0fdb05a067adb5111659905.JPG) (http://www.curry-recipes.co.uk/imagehost/#b9e1be84e0fdb05a067adb5111659905.JPG)

Should have checked I had All Purpose Seasoning instead of thinking there was some in the larder! I substituted with Marigold Swiss Vegetable Bouillon Powder, it's quite salty. This deviation from the recipe being the only one. Well, I was planning to use Tamarind Paste but opening the jar, it's aroma had gone, it states on the label to dispose within one month of opening, doh!  ::) Have no idea how long ago it was opened! Used the lemon juice instead.

(http://www.curry-recipes.co.uk/imagehost/pics/a1a56772e845cfe956803246df0aa9e7.JPG) (http://www.curry-recipes.co.uk/imagehost/#a1a56772e845cfe956803246df0aa9e7.JPG)

The cooking! Remembered the rice, yippee! Added a few Asian Bay Leaves to the rice, nice flavour, must get around to making a proper Pilau! Cooking rice in the oven would probably be less messy, the water always bubbles over! Yes, I know that's my fault, but I was concentrating on the main dish :)

(http://www.curry-recipes.co.uk/imagehost/pics/843f1b99727d6f23d3c44938f0816da1.JPG) (http://www.curry-recipes.co.uk/imagehost/#843f1b99727d6f23d3c44938f0816da1.JPG)

The final dish, seriously yummy, my daughter commented that is was a better curry than the TA we had earlier in the week, high praise! Possibly a little too much base sauce added at the final part of the recipe, note for next time - do not be afraid to leave some base sauce in the pan, or cook it longer to reduce, but the oil had separated. Should I carry on cooking the curry after that?

(http://www.curry-recipes.co.uk/imagehost/pics/1454ace077ae9d2c626b127493b1fc1d.JPG) (http://www.curry-recipes.co.uk/imagehost/#1454ace077ae9d2c626b127493b1fc1d.JPG)

A close up! I will definitely be making this again, such a superb balance between the sweet and sour, but not sweet from sugar, I really liked the flavour waves and of course the searing heat!

(http://www.curry-recipes.co.uk/imagehost/pics/e61cc63e06fe40878e2a06362ba90219.JPG) (http://www.curry-recipes.co.uk/imagehost/#e61cc63e06fe40878e2a06362ba90219.JPG)
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: natterjak on April 01, 2012, 02:28 PM
That looks sensational terramamba  :D the tikka really works well cooked under halogen doesn't it? Were they boneless thighs?  The NIS itself looks delicious, I'm going to have to try this one!
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: Terramamba on April 01, 2012, 03:00 PM
That looks sensational terramamba  :D the tikka really works well cooked under halogen doesn't it? Were they boneless thighs?  The NIS itself looks delicious, I'm going to have to try this one!

Thank you Natterjak! The halogen is great for tikka I agree! Yes boneless thighs. Do try this recipe I think it's great  ;D
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: curryhell on April 01, 2012, 06:40 PM
Nice one Terramambe.  I would imagine that the chicken tasted far better using thighs.  So much more flavour in thighs and legs than there is in breast and even more so having been made to blade's recipe.  It really must be one of the best tikka recipes around.  NIS is looking very good alongside everything else.  Waves of flavour is a excellent way to describe the taste of the dish.  Re. reducing more once the oil has separated, that really depends on the starting texture of the base.  Once the oil has separated the dish is done.  A couple of extra more mins to thicken is fine.  But if the sauce beneath it is still thin then i would not thin my base down quite as much next time you make a batch.  It is possible to make a base too thin IMHO.  I've managed to do it and the extended time spent reducing it seemed to have an adverse affect on the overall flavour.  There's reducing and boiling the living s****e out of something ;D.  With the daughter's seal of approval you obviously produced a top notch NIS there.  Congratulations and thanks for another posting of porn.  Regarding rice, i too hate mucking about and like to just throw in the oven to sort itself out..  This is the recipe i use, foolproof and no fuss and completely cooked in the oven and as good as any pilau from a takeaway.  I think Natterjak will tesify as to the simplicity of the recipe as well as the results  :D

http://www.curry-recipes.co.uk/curry/index.php?topic=6070.0 (http://www.curry-recipes.co.uk/curry/index.php?topic=6070.0)

Thanks for giving the NIS a go and such a detailed pictorial report.  We do love a picture :P ;D
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: Terramamba on April 01, 2012, 08:34 PM
Hi Curryhell!

So with this dish a thicker base is required? But with a Jahl Frezi a thinner one?

Your Pilau Rice recipe is on the menu for next week, but now I'm out of base  :o

Lots to do in the kitchen!

Glad you liked the "porn"!!!!

All the best  ;D
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: curryhell on April 01, 2012, 08:53 PM
Hi Curryhell!

So with this dish a thicker base is required? But with a Jahl Frezi a thinner one?

Your Pilau Rice recipe is on the menu for next week, but now I'm out of base  :o

Lots to do in the kitchen!

Glad you liked the "porn"!!!!

All the best  ;D
Hi Terramambe.
I'm always up for a good bit of curry porn ;).   Re base thickness, your base should be multi purpose and suitable for any curry, thickness of sauce being achieved simply by more or less reduction.  I think the best way i can descibe the right consistancy is to use Chewytikka's description.  It should run off the spoon and leave it clean.  Is that any help?  I recently made a base and thinned it a little too much :(  It takes a hell of a lot of reduction to get the curry to the right consistancy and the intensity of flavour just isn't there and i end up with less sauce >:(.  So if the spoon isn't quite clean, i don't worry too much.  Easier to add water to thin it down than to reduce and reduce because you've over thinned it.

Have a look at CT's video.  This is what i like to aim for  :)

http://www.southtyneside.com/sizzler/finishedbase.html (http://www.southtyneside.com/sizzler/finishedbase.html)

Hope the rice recipe makes life a bit easier in that busy kitchen of yours   :D

Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: Whandsy on April 07, 2012, 09:31 AM
Well, we're having friends around for a couple of curries tonight so have been busy doing the prep, I have to comment again on the quality of this curry. In order for me to consume copious amounts of lager i've pre made the NIS with a view to re- heating it later on. I've just tasted it and have to say its one of the best curries i have made so far. I think what sits well with me is the amount of oil used. Now I, and like everyone else am relatively health conscious but the oil in this curry does give it the flavour and texture I'm looking for and similar to the takeaways near me.
Spicy curry sauce, lots of softened onions and peppers, chicken tikka, mmmm, last meal on death row for me  ;)

Thanks CH, this one would need to go in the free ebook  :)

W
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: curryhell on April 07, 2012, 11:56 AM
Sounds as though you're in for a very enjoyable evening there W.  Good food, beer and a convivial evening with friends.  I hope they like the dish as much as you obviously do ;).  Another NIS convert  ;D.  Makes far more sense to have all the hard work done before the evening other than the last minute stuff and allows the chef to enjoy proceedings rather than feeling as though he's just run a marathon to get everything ready and on the table ::).
Re. the oil content, it's no secret and has been said and emphasised by many on here how important it is not to skimp on the oil, removing the excess afterwards, if the curry lets you :D.  The NIS is a bit mean in that respect though ;D. There's a lot of flavours to be cooked in the dish and a couple of TBS of oil just wouln't hack it and not deliver the result i look for.
Well, i've a huge pot of C2G gravy cooled on the stove so i may just put together an NIS before i bag it all up.  If i have time i will add the details of a little twist that i give my NIS (as does my local BIR) which just adds another layer to all the flavours.  A little something for you to try on your next outing maybe  ;D ;D

Edit - I forgot to add - DON'T FORGET TO ADD PICS of your labours W  :D
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: Micky Tikka on April 07, 2012, 12:56 PM
I will be making this dish tonight had my eye on it for a couple of weeks now
I'm sure it will live up to its reputation  ;) CH
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: curryhell on April 07, 2012, 01:27 PM
I will be making this dish tonight had my eye on it for a couple of weeks now
I'm sure it will live up to its reputation  ;) CH
It's a bit more fiddly than a straighforward madras but worth the effort IMHO.  Hope you enjoy the flavours Michael.  Don't forget to adjust the chilli content to your taste ( but not too much  ::)).  Look forward to the curry porn and the feedback. 
Just started to use my "free issue" curry powder.  Thanks again for that mate.
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: DalPuri on April 07, 2012, 09:19 PM
CH,
Where does the chopped garlic come into this recipe?
Is it either/or  e.g. chopped or g/g paste?
I'm taking it from (final cut) page 8.

Cheers, Frank.

Got all me ingredients prepped and ready  ;)
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: curryhell on April 07, 2012, 09:30 PM
BOTH.  Chopped garlic goes in when you're frying the onions in the initial fry before adding any spices and before you add the ginger/garlic paste.  Good luck with DP.  Hope you enjoy.  Look forward to your report later.  Any issues PM me
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: DalPuri on April 07, 2012, 09:32 PM
Cheers CH  :D
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: curryhell on April 07, 2012, 09:35 PM
no worries DP.  Enjoy the dish.  Of course we expect a full critique along with the  CR0 traditional curry porn pics.  I apologise for yet another cock up in my write up of the recipe ::)
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: natterjak on April 07, 2012, 09:39 PM
Just to say I've cooked this a couple of times so far, tonight for my bro-in-law and nephew along with a CA Bhuna and CT Madras. I used Maggi Tamarina sauce (bought from Asda) instead of tamarind extract and it came out very well indeed. No pics this time, maybe next time :)
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: curryhell on April 07, 2012, 09:44 PM
You kept that quiet Natterjak.  Disappointed there are no pics though :(.  Which did they prefer??.  I've been trying to find some tamarind sauce rather than concentrate.  A trip to Asda me thinks..  I could always do what Az does and mix up some of my own using the block i suppose but he really didn't go into that much detail on how to do it  :(
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: natterjak on April 07, 2012, 10:01 PM
I've made tamarind sauce from block tamarind before, you just cut yourself a 2 inch by inch chunk off then put into a mug and top up with boiling water. Give it a min to dissolve then squish it around with a teaspoon for a minute or so then sieve to separate the solids from the liquid tamarind sauce.

My curry victims tonight loved the NIS and the Bhuna equally. I'm sure they would have rated the madras too but 2 tsps Rajah hot chilli powder was over and above their heat threshold (they are curry lightweights) so they barely sampled it before declaring "too hot"

I think it was Asda where I found the Tamarina sauce. Maybe tesco though. Worth getting hold of though, very pleasant stuff.
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: curryhell on April 07, 2012, 10:11 PM
Curry wimps indeed Natterjak.  They obviously need more training.  You need to educate them further ;D.  I have a block which i bought the other week and was going to make it up.  The stuff at Zaal's was super to taste, sweet but sour at the same time ???.  I wonder how long it keeps if you make it up and put it in the fridge.  I will definitely check out the tamarina on the web and go and get some.  I have been looking for some rather than the concentrated tar like stuff.  Then again, that too works better than lemon I think.  Glad your guests enjoyed the food mate.  I've never made a bhuna.  Maybe it's time i tried it :o
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: DalPuri on April 07, 2012, 10:49 PM
Blimey, I'm full now! Haven't eaten a curry that fast for ages  ;D

More heat vicar  :P

Unfortunately it wasn't quite to spec. Didn't have any fresh chillies so subbed with kashmiri.
Already had pre-cooked onion and pepper, so started off with Chalice oil.
And i didn't have any mango chutney, so used my sisters chilli jam.
Overall a delicious dish, maybe a touch oversweet but that could be from the jam.

Thank you Ch.  ;)


(http://www.curry-recipes.co.uk/imagehost/pics/eae58c6d35858c8a221824c7570e4111.JPG)


p.s. I think its time i made a green curry.  :)
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: curryhell on April 07, 2012, 10:59 PM
Blimey, I'm full now! Haven't eaten a curry that fast for ages  ;D

More heat vicar  :P

Unfortunately it wasn't quite to spec. Didn't have any fresh chillies so subbed with kashmiri.
Already had pre-cooked onion and pepper, so started off with Chalice oil.
And i didn't have any mango chutney, so used my sisters chilli jam.
Overall a delicious dish, maybe a touch oversweet but that could be from the jam.

Thank you Ch.  ;)

p.s. I think its time i made a green curry.  :)
you are more than welcome DP. Thanks for the feed back.  You made me smile.  Not quite to spec eh??  I don't think i need to ask if you used the spicey onions in the absence of the mango chutney;D. Not sure whether it was in the area or not :o
Glad you enjoyed your version of my dish.  Do make it again and if you can, try and stick closely to my recipe.  You may enjoy it even more next time.  Nice one DP.  I'm still smiling now.
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: DalPuri on April 07, 2012, 11:09 PM
I made the spicy onions but with my sisters chilli jam instead of mango chutney. 

I was gutted that i'd run out of fresh chillies  :'(
I was searching amongst the potatoes in the bottom of the fridge to see if any had dropped down  ::)

Never really been a fan of mango chutney, but i do need to buy a jar for a few mixed dips.

Next time eh.  ;)
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: curryhell on April 07, 2012, 11:39 PM
I was gutted that i'd run out of fresh chillies  :'(
I was searching amongst the potatoes in the bottom of the fridge to see if any had dropped down  ::)
Next time eh.  ;)

I'm still smiling and imagining you rooting around among the spuds for any errant chilli ;D ;D.  This sounds like a sketch from a tv program.  Top tip, always keep some back ups in the freezer for emergencies ;)
Re. the mango chutney, the taste is not obvious it is there purely to provide a level of non sugar tasting savoury sweetness.  I look forward to take two with all the required ingredients and you not having to ferret among the spuds  ;D ;D Excuse the laughter, i've had a beer or two too many ::) :-\ where's the hiccup emoti icon? >:(
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: Whandsy on April 07, 2012, 11:46 PM
My NIS was 100% BIR no doubt, absolutely superb, the sweet creaminess lying behind the spiciness, a lot for me is owed to the thinning of the base prior to using as per C2G tip. My friend said he would pay for the curry no doubt and would be made up to receive it as a takeaway. I cooked this dish this morning and went out for the day so came in to a curry without having that spice overload that puts you off slightly. 1 st class for me

(http://i1258.photobucket.com/albums/ii521/Whands/d40f973d.jpg)

Regards

W
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: DalPuri on April 07, 2012, 11:49 PM
Thats what led me to that frozen chillies post with dry ice  :D

I need to get a drawer full! Have always been a chilli freak since i was a kid.
I've also had plenty of ex-girlfriends moaning at me about putting chillies on everything. "you'll spoil the flavour"  ::)
No dear, its only for heat  ;D
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: curryhell on April 07, 2012, 11:55 PM
My NIS was 100% BIR no doubt, absolutely superb, the sweet creaminess lying behind the spiciness, a lot for me is owed to the thinning of the base prior to using as per C2G tip. My friend said he would pay for the curry no doubt and would be made up to receive it as a takeaway. I cooked this dish this morning and went out for the day so came in to a curry without having that spice overload that puts you off slightly. 1 st class for me

(http://i1258.photobucket.com/albums/ii521/Whands/d40f973d.jpg)

Regards

W
That looks better than my pics - trully amazing, mouth watering stuff :(.  I think going out and returning to it already done is very much part of secret for us home BIR chefs to get rid of the overloading of the senses.  You have indeed done my recipe proud and i thank you for that.  And your friend confirms what a superb job you've done.  All round yours for NIS then Whandsy?   ;D ;D  When you doing it next so i can put in my diary?  ::)
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: Micky Tikka on April 09, 2012, 11:58 AM
Made a Triple portion on Saturday afternoon then went and had a relaxing few pints at my club with some friends
And because you smell like a curry house the topic turns to curries
Yes I say Ive got new friends now  ;)  and been making curries with their help and what you need to do is ...
and with in 30 seconds you get  " shut up you boring c##t"     But it didn't stop them coming round to polish it off
(very disappointing none for breakfast) and in their eyes there was no 5% missing and asked about the recipe
I said wasn't mine is was my new friends in particular CH and what you need to do is... anyway they told me to shut up again  :)
It was a great evening with a great curry CH with good friends Just needed some new friends to listen to me  ;D

Have got pics and trying my best to get them on but it makes my head hurt !
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: curryhell on April 09, 2012, 12:07 PM
Made a Triple portion on Saturday afternoon then went and had a relaxing few pints at my club with some friends
And because you smell like a curry house the topic turns to curries
Yes I say Ive got new friends now  ;)  and been making curries with their help and what you need to do is ...
and with in 30 seconds you get  " shut up you boring c##t"     But it didn't stop them coming round to polish it off
(very disappointing none for breakfast) and in their eyes there was no 5% missing and asked about the recipe
I said wasn't mine is was my new friends in particular CH and what you need to do is... anyway they told me to shut up again  :)
It was a great evening with a great curry CH with good friends Just needed some new friends to listen to me  ;D

Have got pics and trying my best to get them on but it makes my head hurt !

 ;D ;D ;D,  Oh that sounds so familiar Michael.  Funny how all your friends are interested in is eating the stuff isn't it?  They don't give a hoot at how you arrived at the end result >:(
Re posting pictures copy and paste the first line in the imaging host  into the post not the third line.  Job then done  ;D Looking forward to seeing the conversation stopper ???
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: Micky Tikka on April 09, 2012, 12:21 PM
(http://www.curry-recipes.co.uk/imagehost/pics/5962a41fe24d1064568dab849a625f38.jpg) (http://www.curry-recipes.co.uk/imagehost/#5962a41fe24d1064568dab849a625f38.jpg)
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: Micky Tikka on April 09, 2012, 12:30 PM
wait wrong picture
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: Micky Tikka on April 09, 2012, 12:50 PM
(http://www.curry-recipes.co.uk/imagehost/pics/03d784a4d60eb27c3dd411ed808b2d22.jpg) (http://www.curry-recipes.co.uk/imagehost/#03d784a4d60eb27c3dd411ed808b2d22.jpg)
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: curryhell on April 09, 2012, 12:53 PM
Tikka overload  :o :o.  That really looks delicious mate.  I'll have two portions to take away with pilau rice and a brinjal bhaji please  ;D And throw in a peshwari naan while the tandoor's still warm  ;)
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: Micky Tikka on April 09, 2012, 01:06 PM
Any poppadoms sir
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: Terramamba on April 09, 2012, 07:45 PM
(http://www.curry-recipes.co.uk/imagehost/pics/23eb972957c382839c2274b32dcefbcc.JPG) (http://www.curry-recipes.co.uk/imagehost/#23eb972957c382839c2274b32dcefbcc.JPG)

One HELL of a CURRY  ;D

This dish gets better the more I cook it  8)
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: curryhell on April 09, 2012, 11:16 PM
Hi Terramamba.  Good to see you working away with the NIS.  Can you tell me if your pic is a true representation of the finished dish?  From what i'm looking at the chicken doesn't look like chicken tikka but ordinary pre-cookded chicken and the sauce is very dark brown :o.  Aesthetics maybe, but the look is very different from the pics of your first attempt and different from all the others posted here  :-\ . But you obviously enjoyed the taste  :D
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: Terramamba on April 09, 2012, 11:25 PM
Hi Terramamba.  Good to see you working away with the NIS.  Can you tell me if your pic is a true representation of the finished dish?  From what i'm looking at the chicken doesn't look like chicken tikka but ordinary pre-cookded chicken and the sauce is very dark brown :o.  Aesthetics maybe, but the look is very different from the pics of your first attempt and different from all the others posted here  :-\ . But you obviously enjoyed the taste  :D

Hi Curryhell. Yes, a true representation. Yes, chicken tikka, thighs, cooked whole, then sliced before adding at final stages of cooking. Yes a different look, possibly due to using my heavy cast iron pan, seemed to hold the heat, I timed the various cooking stages too, lots of reduction. Also I didn't have any tomato.

The taste, what can I say - delicious! :)
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: DalPuri on April 09, 2012, 11:47 PM
CH, i had a few pics to choose from and a there was a complete difference with the flash on.

without flash = true and red
with flash = brown

Cheers, Frank  ;)
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: curryhell on April 10, 2012, 06:18 AM
Hi Curryhell. Yes, a true representation. Yes, chicken tikka, thighs, cooked whole, then sliced before adding at final stages of cooking. Yes a different look, possibly due to using my heavy cast iron pan, seemed to hold the heat, I timed the various cooking stages too, lots of reduction. Also I didn't have any tomato.

The taste, what can I say - delicious! :)
Thanks for clarifying T.  The reason I ask is that you made the dish wiht the C2G base as did i when i made my phall on Saturday.  It too turned out a different colour than it normally does.  Like you it got a hell of a lot of reduction but i struggled to get the consistency I like.  By that time it was more brown than orangey red  :-\ >:(.  Tasted ok but full report on that later.
Was that no tomato paste  :o which would make a difference not only to the colour or no fresh tomato?  The later would obviously have very minimal impact on either.
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: curryhell on April 10, 2012, 06:24 AM
CH, i had a few pics to choose from and a there was a complete difference with the flash on.

without flash = true and red
with flash = brown

Cheers, Frank  ;)

The flash thing can be very irritating at times DP.  One never knows whether to use it or not.  I too now end up taking a few shots with and without and incorporate natural light when possible to get the best possible pick of the dish and how it really looks.  I  have found that more often the flash makes my dishes look redder than they are.  Weird, but then again i'm certainly no expert when it comes to using a camera ::).
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: Terramamba on April 10, 2012, 07:13 AM
Hi Curryhell. Yes, a true representation. Yes, chicken tikka, thighs, cooked whole, then sliced before adding at final stages of cooking. Yes a different look, possibly due to using my heavy cast iron pan, seemed to hold the heat, I timed the various cooking stages too, lots of reduction. Also I didn't have any tomato.

The taste, what can I say - delicious! :)
Thanks for clarifying T.  The reason I ask is that you made the dish wiht the C2G base as did i when i made my phall on Saturday.  It too turned out a different colour than it normally does.  Like you it got a hell of a lot of reduction but i struggled to get the consistency I like.  By that time it was more brown than orangey red  :-\ >:(.  Tasted ok but full report on that later.
Was that no tomato paste  :o which would make a difference not only to the colour or no fresh tomato?  The later would obviously have very minimal impact on either.

Hi CH, only fresh tomato was missing, like you say, minimal impact. As for the consistency, for me, spot on  ;D

My camera was set to auto, so it may well have flashed :)
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: Micky Tikka on April 10, 2012, 07:12 PM
Mine was that colour lots of red tikka with food colouring and tom paste and proably tried to make it too big so not so much reduction still couldnt fault the taste which is the main thing :)
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: curryhell on April 10, 2012, 07:28 PM
Mine was that colour lots of red tikka with food colouring and tom paste and proably tried to make it too big so not so much reduction still couldnt fault the taste which is the main thing :)
Michael, you're saying yours was the same colour as Terramamba; dark brown, but in your picture it's orangey red ???
But as you say, it tasted good ;D
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: Micky Tikka on April 10, 2012, 09:15 PM
Sorry the colour was the same as the picture orangey but its a shame we cant compare tastes   ???
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: curryhell on April 10, 2012, 09:19 PM
Sorry the colour was the same as the picture orangey but its a shame we cant compare tastes   ???
Indeed it is Michael, smellyvison would be good but taste vision would be even better. ;D  Just writing up my curry2go base experience now and will post it shortly  :-\
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: DalPuri on April 10, 2012, 09:30 PM
This is the same dish using an old digital camera Olympus C5050 zoom.
The top picture without flash was a closer representation of the actual colour.

Without flash
(http://www.curry-recipes.co.uk/imagehost/pics/eae58c6d35858c8a221824c7570e4111.JPG)




With flash
(http://www.curry-recipes.co.uk/imagehost/pics/24413065898ba8389c7ac3258ff0cc62.JPG)
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: curryhell on April 10, 2012, 09:33 PM
Amazing DP.  My results would be the reverse of yours  :-\ ;) Without the flash is how i would expect the look to be, a nice orangey red colour with full of promise  ::) :P
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: fried on April 13, 2012, 07:57 AM
Knocked this up last night on the spur of the moment. The missus usual objects to curry more than once a week, but I think she's getting addicted too. ;D

As a result I only had an hour to marinade the Tikka, the  results were excellent and the missus said it was the best curry I'd ever made.

I used about 2tsp chilli + 2tsp kashmiri chilli, I can't find the little green chillis in my area, so I had to make do with the larger milder North African variety. Used a bit of mango powder too. Beautiful. About a hot Madras strength.

Cheers for the recipe.
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: curryhell on April 13, 2012, 04:57 PM
Used a bit of mango powder too. Beautiful. About a hot Madras strength.
Glad you enjoyed it fried.  The Mrs is never wrong, is she? ;D Did you use the mango powder instead of tamarind / lemon or in place of the chutney ???
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: fried on April 13, 2012, 06:04 PM
I used lemon juice + mango chutney and a half tsp of mango powder. I couldn't say what difference it made, not having tried it before. In fact the only thing I ever use mango powder for is in making Tandoori masala.
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: 976bar on April 13, 2012, 06:19 PM
I've been eating phalls and vindaloos for more years that i care to remember.  Whilst at one of my favourite restaurants a few months back the manager said i should try something different for a change but with added heat to my liking of course.  I agreed and he chose the North Indian Special.  I can say that  i haven't looked back since. Whenever  i dine in there now, it's my dish of choice.  Anyway, having some time on my hands today for a change, i thought I'd have a crack at creating something similar and share the results on the site.  I must say thanks to CA because his vindaloo recipe provided the starting point for today's experiment ;D.  I still need to make a couple of minor tweeks but this is pretty close.

Ingredients:

pre-cooked onions
- quarter of a large onion broken into its layers
- quarter of red or green pepper roughly chopped
- 3 chef spoons of oil (reduce to 2 if using base with high oil content ie. Taz's base)
- half tsp of fresh pureed garlic
- half tsp of mix powder

main dish
- portion of chicken tikka  ( i always use Blade's recipe - tikka par excellence!!)

- 2 tsp fresh pureed garlic
- 2 tbsp tomato paste (already diluted 50/50)
- 300ml curry base (CA's)
- 2 tsp spice mix (CA's)
- 4 tbsp chilli powder (or more to taste)
- 0.25 tsp tandoori masala  (my own blend but any will do)
- 0.5 tsp all purpose seasoning
- 3 tsp pureed mango chutney
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- fresh chopped coriander (to taste)
- 5 fresh chillies (finely chopped)


Method:

- Heat oil in suitable pan
- Add half tsp garlic puree and fry for one minute
- Add half tsp of mix and fry for about 10 - 15 seconds
- Add onions and peppers
- Cook on low heat for 15 to 20 mins until soft
- Remove onions and peppers and put to one side and leave the spiced oil in the pan for the next stage
- increase the heat to medium and add 2 tsp of garlic puree  to the spiced oil and fry for a minute with continuous stirring (do not burn!)
- Remove from heat and add the mix spice, chilli and tandoori masala and chopped chillis
- return to heat and stir fry for 30 seconds continually stirring it
-  add tomato puree and  stir in and cook for about 30 seconds or so (do not burn!)
- Add a ladle of curry base and stir
- Continue to add the curry base, a ladle at a time, stirring occasionally as the water evaporates and the sauce thickens
- Add all purpose seasoning, mango chutney and lemon juice and stir in
- now add chicken tikka and precooked onions and peppers
- Continue to simmer, on medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the oil begins to separate (5 to 10 minutes)
- Add fresh coriander to taste

I hope someone tries it and enjoys it as much as i do.  Off to the pub now and looking forward to my supper when i get home later ;D

Hi CH :)

I keep coming back and back to this recipe which looks soooo good. But the only thing putting me off making this is the Mango Chutney, as I hate sweet curries.....

Have you ever made this without the Mango Chutney? If so what impact did it have on the dish?

I suppose I'm being a plonka here and should just make it without and see for myself....  :-\
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: curryhell on April 13, 2012, 06:30 PM
Hi Bob.  Look at the link below for the latest cut of the recipe.

http://www.curry-recipes.co.uk/curry/index.php?topic=5948.70 (http://www.curry-recipes.co.uk/curry/index.php?topic=5948.70)

Spicy red onions are used which contains diluted mango chutney anyway.  So there is no need to add additional unless you want to, which you obviously wouldn't.  Make sure you use only 1 - 2 tbs of tomato paste already diluted.  My instructions in the final cut could be misinterpreted.  Diluting the chutney actually reduces the sweetness.  And no, i've never made it without.  It's like having beef without the yorkshire pud >:(  Let me know how you get on if you decide to go for it ;)
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: ELW on April 13, 2012, 06:36 PM
I need to try this also, maybe over the weekend. Will need to cut the chilli powder a little as full spec is gonna blow my head off!  :o
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: 976bar on April 13, 2012, 06:39 PM
Hi Bob.  Look at the link below for the latest cut of the recipe.

http://www.curry-recipes.co.uk/curry/index.php?topic=5948.70 (http://www.curry-recipes.co.uk/curry/index.php?topic=5948.70)

Spicy red onions are used which contains diluted mango chutney anyway.  So there is no need to add additional unless you want to, which you obviously wouldn't.  Make sure you use only 1 - 2 tbs of tomato paste already diluted.  My instructions in the final cut could be misinterpreted.  Diluting the chutney actually reduces the sweetness.  And no, i've never made it without.  It's like having beef without the yorkshire pud >:(  Let me know how you get on if you decide to go for it ;)

Many thanks for that Dave....

Guess I've got something to do this weekend now :)
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: curryhell on April 13, 2012, 06:54 PM
If either or both of you try it, i hope you enjoy.  Obviously a pic and a few words are  always appreciated.  I can't see me having time this weekend for any curry cooking.  Probably have to dial it in :D.  Reducing the chilli powder will have no drastic affect on the flavour, and will reduce the impact elsewhere ;D
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: natterjak on April 13, 2012, 07:32 PM
Hi Bob.  Look at the link below for the latest cut of the recipe.

http://www.curry-recipes.co.uk/curry/index.php?topic=5948.70 (http://www.curry-recipes.co.uk/curry/index.php?topic=5948.70)

Spicy red onions are used which contains diluted mango chutney anyway.  So there is no need to add additional unless you want to, which you obviously wouldn't.  Make sure you use only 1 - 2 tbs of tomato paste already diluted.  My instructions in the final cut could be misinterpreted.  Diluting the chutney actually reduces the sweetness.  And no, i've never made it without.  It's like having beef without the yorkshire pud >:(  Let me know how you get on if you decide to go for it ;)

Hi CH, your link in the post above is taking me to the top of page 2 of this thread, did you actually mean this link:

http://www.curry-recipes.co.uk/curry/index.php?topic=5948.msg65894#msg65894 (http://www.curry-recipes.co.uk/curry/index.php?topic=5948.msg65894#msg65894)

When you say adding mango chutney is optional because it's contained in the spicey onions are you saying the 1 TBS diluted mango chutney can be omitted? I'm a bit unclear on this point.  And when you talk about dilutes mango chutney how much chutney to how much water?

Last question for now.... In the recipe you state 0.25 tamarind concentrate, but 0.25 of what? (metric tonne??!)  ;D These are a few questions I had about this recipe anyway.
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: curryhell on April 13, 2012, 08:05 PM
Yes your link is correct.for some reason my posted link is incorrect ???. As for the chutney, when diluted it should pour very easily. If using the spicy onions as per the latest cut of the recipe, the additional tbs of chutney is optional.  The ratio for dilution will depend on the chutney you use. Re. Tamarind concentrate this should read .25tsp. Hope that clarifies yoiur queries.

EDIT - just checked my link and it takes me to page 8, just like yours ??? ??? ::)
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: Whandsy on April 13, 2012, 08:26 PM
I wonder if T/A or restaurants use ketchup as an ingredient, the last time i made this dish i used C2G's red onions which is mango chutney chilli powder, red colour and kalonji seeds. Was sweet and tasty still without ketchup

W
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: natterjak on April 13, 2012, 09:03 PM
Yes your link is correct.for some reason my posted link is incorrect ???. As for the chutney, when diluted it should pour very easily. If using the spicy onions as per the latest cut of the recipe, the additional tbs of chutney is optional.  The ratio for dilution will depend on the chutney you use. Re. Tamarind concentrate this should read .25tsp. Hope that clarifies thor queries.

Thanks  :) Will be making this at some point over the weekend and will post pics!
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: curryhell on April 14, 2012, 11:10 AM
I wonder if T/A or restaurants use ketchup as an ingredient, the last time i made this dish i used C2G's red onions which is mango chutney chilli powder, red colour and kalonji seeds. Was sweet and tasty still without ketchup

W
Hi W.  The spicy onions at my local from where my NIS originates definitely uses ketchup in their onions, and who knows what else :o ::) ;D
Title: Re: North Indian Special (vindaloo strength)
Post by: wheresmyhead on April 19, 2012, 10:09 AM
Now this looks like my kind of curry, I love mine to be hotter than the surface of the Sun   ;D

It looks like you're using Bird's Eye chillies, have you ever tried Scotch Bonnets in this curry? I think I'll use Scotch Bonnets to give the curry some extra kick and that fantastic Bonnet flavour.