If you love authentic Indian cuisine and browse Indian menus on a regular basis, you’ve probably seen Balti dishes listed frequently. This is because the ‘Balti’ is very much a staple of British-Asian cuisine and is renowned for its unique flavour profile and cooking techniques. Originating in the Baltistan region of northern Pakistan, the Balti is guaranteed to get your taste buds tingling. But what exactly is this dish?
Ingredients of a Balti
A Balti typically consists of tender pieces of meat such as chicken, lamb or beef cooked with a mix of spices including cumin, chilli, fennel, cloves and turmeric. It can also be made with seafood or vegetables, and it’s common for herbs such as fresh coriander and mint to also make it into the dish. Many families and communities in India have their own unique garam masala spice mix, meaning Baltis can taste different depending on where you go.
Other ingredients are also added to this fragrant and truly satisfying dish including onions, tomatoes and peppers. This adds to the overall richness and texture.
What is a Balti Cooked in?
One of the most important things that sets a Balti apart from other curries is that it’s cooked in a flat-bottomed pan. The pan itself is called a ‘Balti’, which translates to English as ‘bucket’, and is usually made of cast iron or stainless steel with two handles. The pan is specifically designed to allow for even heat distribution allowing Balti dishes to be cooked quickly over a high heat. With the right pan to hand, Baltis are stir-fried quickly with the ingredients sauteed rapidly to help maintain their texture and flavour.
How are Balti Dishes Served?
Presentation is everything when it comes to the classic Balti. Most dishes are served directly in the Balti pan alongside rice or naan bread. Traditionally, people eat from the same pan as an act of unity and respect. Dining together like this is believed to enhance the experience and bring about a sense of community. In restaurants, individual Balti dishes are served to those who order this meal.
What is the Flavour Profile of a Balti?
The spices are carefully balanced in a Balti and this is key to the quality of the dish. Unlike some curries, which can be drier, the Balti typically has a lot of rich and flavoursome sauce. The variation of spices included plays a significant part in the overall flavour profile. Most Baltis are cooked to a medium level of spice (more than a Korma or Pasanda but less than a Madras or Jalfrezi) and have tangy and smoky notes.
If you’re looking for ‘authentic Indian cuisine near me’ and are in London’s South Kensington, visit Little India to enjoy a flavoursome Balti made with the finest ingredients. Our Indian on Gloucester Road is the ideal place to stop after a day sightseeing or visiting London’s renowned museums such as the Natural History Museum or Victoria & Albert Museum. Book your table or order takeaway today for traditional dishes with a contemporary twist.
