Balti

A Balti or Balti Gosht is a delectable type of curry made with lamb or goat meat. It is swiftly cooked over high heat in a distinctive thin, pressed-steel wok referred to as a "balti bowl" resembling a stir-fry method. Unlike many Indian dishes that often use ghee, Balti utilizes vegetable oil. Common ingredients include garlic, onions, turmeric, garam masala, and a variety of other spices. Intriguingly, the name "balti" is derived from the metal dish in which it’s prepared, rather than from any specific ingredient or cooking technique.

Balti Gosht is particularly popular in Pakistan, North India, and Great Britain. It is believed to have originated from Baltistan in northern Pakistan. The word "balti" itself is sourced from Hindustani, Odia, and Bengali languages, where it means "bucket." This term was likely introduced to the Indian subcontinent by Portuguese sailors in the 16th century. The culinary style of balti dishes is influenced by various regions, including China, Tibet, and Kashmir.

In Birmingham, England, balti restaurants are commonly referred to as "balti houses." These establishments typically serve balti dishes in a communal manner, often accompanied by large pieces of karack naan bread. An area in Birmingham, known as the "Balti Triangle" historically housed numerous balti restaurants. Due to its growing popularity, balti houses have now spread beyond this locality.

Balti cuisine gained significant traction in the 1980s and 1990s, spreading throughout the West Midlands and other parts of Britain. While the curry market in Britain is substantial, some assert that finding an authentic balti dish outside of urban West Midlands can be quite challenging. Nevertheless, balti restaurants have also emerged in places like Ireland, New Zealand, Australia, and other English-speaking countries.

Since the late 1990s, British supermarkets have started offering prepackaged balti meals, heightening competition for traditional balti restaurants. Despite these challenges and evolving consumer preferences, balti cuisine continues to hold a special place in the South Asian and Indian culinary world.