Balti

Balti is a popular South Asian curry dish that originated in the region of Baltistan, which is now a part of Pakistan. It is believed to have been created in the early 20th century in the city of Birmingham, UK, by Pakistani and Kashmiri immigrants. The dish gained popularity in the local British Indian restaurant scene and became synonymous with "Balti houses."

Balti is characterized by its unique cooking method and the type of pan used. Traditionally, it is cooked and served in a flat-bottomed, two-handled wok-like pan called a "balti." The term "balti" refers to the cooking vessel itself, as well as the dish prepared in it.

In the UK, Balti is enjoyed as a flavorful and aromatic curry dish. It is known for its quick cooking time, vibrant spices, and the ability to customize the ingredients according to individual preferences. Balti is often served with naan bread or rice and is a popular choice in many British Indian restaurants and takeaways.

Here's a detailed recipe with metric measurements to make Chicken Balti at home for a UK reader:

Chicken Balti

Difficulty: Intermediate

Spice Level: Medium

Cooking Time: 40 minutes

Serves: 4

Ingredients:

- 500g boneless chicken, cut into bite-sized pieces

- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil

- 2 medium onions, finely chopped

- 3 cloves garlic, minced

- 1-inch ginger, grated

- 2 green chilies, finely chopped (adjust to taste)

- 2 tomatoes, chopped

- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds

- 1 teaspoon ground coriander

- 1 teaspoon ground cumin

- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder

- 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)

- 1/2 teaspoon garam masala

- Salt to taste

- Fresh coriander leaves, for garnish

- Naan bread or steamed rice, for serving

Instructions:

1. Heat vegetable oil in a large pan or balti over medium heat. Add the cumin seeds and let them splutter.

2. Add the chopped onions to the pan and sauté until they turn golden brown.

3. Add the minced garlic, grated ginger, and chopped green chilies to the pan. Sauté for a minute until the raw aroma disappears.

4. Add the chopped tomatoes to the pan and cook for 5 minutes until they soften.

5. Stir in the ground coriander, ground cumin, turmeric powder, red chili powder, and salt. Mix well to coat the onions and spices.

6. Add the chicken pieces to the pan and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are lightly browned.

7. Reduce the heat to low and cover the pan. Simmer for another 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender. Stir occasionally.

8. Sprinkle garam masala over the curry and mix well.

9. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves.

10. Serve Chicken Balti hot with naan bread or steamed rice.

Enjoy the flavorsome and aromatic Chicken Balti, a classic South Asian curry dish with British origins. Adjust the spice level according to your preference and savor this delightful dish that showcases the unique cooking style and flavors of the Balti cuisine.