Quote from: Cory Ander on February 15, 2011, 04:05 PM
How can you do a reliable comparative test if you don't use the specific curry bases (or spice mixes, etc) specified in the recipes?

None of the recipes stipulate base or spice mix recipes to be used, though two (dips & ABCC) have their own by association. Even, one can argue about branding of products used. I have experienced large differences in competing brands. All this will have an affect.

The point though, even if a different base or spice mix is used, at least it is used for the all the recipes (where required) by the tester. So whilst results may vary between testers, they should at least be reliable from each individual tester.

Whist I agree that perhaps it isn't strictly right to do this, it is at least a step in moving forward. It is simply not practical to create separate bases for individual dishes, as I am sure we all agree. Doing nothing will result in nothing and we won't move forward. At least this is a step in the right direction and will identify those recipes that are more 'realistic' for readers to try.

Since the topics are hear for people to read, they can also see that we have chosen to use a single base or another base etc., which they can use to make an informed decision on whether they should try it the recipes to specification or go with the test as performed.

Besides we are often told that any good base, any good spice mix, any good garam masala, etc,. will do.

Quote from: Cory Ander on February 15, 2011, 05:01 PM
Sorry Axe, that sounds like a lot of weazle words to me!  You should have been a politician! 

The fact is that at least 3 of the original 6 proposed recipes have their own curry base (and spice mix, etc)....i.e. Dipuraja's, Uncercover Curry and Authentic Balti Cookbook (I presume, though I haven't checked).

If you can't be bothered to make the recipes EXACTLY as specified by the author, then why bother?  You clearly are not doing justice to the author's recipe and intent if you do otherwise!  :

I suppose that Dipuraja, for example, wouldn't be unduly chuffed if you used Taz's base (and spice mix) to make his curries! 

Hi CA

If you really choose not to see the spirit of what we are doing, why not just ignore these group test posts and participate in something else that does agree with you?

From feedback to all the other fun and successful group tests everyone else 'gets' what we are doing here and can read the whole discussions and make their own minds up.

Quote from: solarsplace on February 15, 2011, 05:09 PM
If you really choose not to see the spirit of what we are doing, why not just ignore these group test posts and participate in something else that does agree with you?

Sorry SP,

I take exception to your assertion that, because I disagree with you (and a few others), that my opinions are not valid and that i should not post them!

The fact is that others (e.g new members) MAY take note of these tests and SHOULD understand CLEARLY their limitations!

If it's purely for "FUN" then make it ABSOLUTELY CLEAR that it's PURELY FOR FUN! 

YOU asked the question, SP, and MY opinion is that TESTERS should test ANY recipes EXACTLY (ingredients, brands, methods, etc) as intended by the author...to get reliable comparative results.

Quote from: solarsplace on February 15, 2011, 05:19 PM
Right...

Moving on, guess we need all the participants to confirm either way whether they are happy to use Taz base & mix or please suggest other ideas.

CHeers

What?  Provided it concurs with your own view SP?  :

Quote from: solarsplace on February 15, 2011, 05:22 PM
CA

Please stop trying to provoke arguments. You are behaving like a forum troll.

Thank you

YOU asked the question and you have my opinion!  Accept it (even though you don't like it)!