Authentic and Flavorful Pork Balti Recipe

Ingredients

  • 500g pork shoulder, cut into cubes
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 inch piece of fresh ginger, grated
  • 1 tablespoon balti curry paste
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
  • 400g can chopped tomatoes
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 200ml water
  • 1 bunch fresh coriander, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons natural yogurt
  • 1 lemon, juice squeezed

Steps and instructions

  1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat.
  2. Add the onion, garlic, and ginger to the pan and fry for about 5 minutes until the onions become soft and golden.
  3. Add the balti curry paste, ground cumin, coriander, turmeric, and chili powder to the pan. Stir well to combine with the onions and cook for another 2 minutes.
  4. Add the cubed pork to the pan and stir well to coat in the spicy onion mixture. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the pork is browned on all sides.
  5. Add the chopped tomatoes, tomato paste, sugar, and salt to the pan. Stir well to combine everything.
  6. Pour in the water and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and simmer for about 30 minutes until the pork is tender.
  7. Stir in half of the fresh coriander, the natural yogurt, and the lemon juice. Cook for another 2-3 minutes.
  8. Adjust the seasoning if necessary, then serve the pork balti garnished with the remaining fresh coriander. Enjoy your pork balti with rice or naan bread.

Tools for making

  • Large pan - A pan large enough to accommodate all the ingredients and allow for stirring.
  • Cutting board - A sturdy cutting board for chopping the onion and coriander.
  • Knife - A sharp knife for cutting the pork shoulder and mincing the garlic.
  • Grater - A grater for grating the fresh ginger.
  • Measuring spoons - Measuring spoons for accurately measuring the spices and salt.
  • Wooden spoon - A wooden spoon for stirring and combining the ingredients.
  • Lemon squeezer - A lemon squeezer for extracting the juice from the lemon.
  • Can opener - A can opener to open the can of chopped tomatoes.

Recipe variations

  • Chicken Balti: Replace the pork with chicken thighs or breast, cut into cubes.
  • Vegetable Balti: Omit the meat and add a variety of vegetables such as bell peppers, carrots, peas, and cauliflower.
  • Lamb Balti: Substitute the pork with lamb shoulder or leg, cut into cubes.
  • Seafood Balti: Use a combination of seafood like shrimp, fish, and scallops instead of pork.
  • Tofu Balti: For a vegetarian option, replace the meat with firm tofu, cut into cubes.
  • Spicy Balti: Increase the amount of chili powder or add chopped fresh chili peppers for an extra kick of heat.
  • Creamy Balti: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk towards the end of cooking for a creamy twist.
  • Nutty Balti: Add a handful of crushed cashews or almonds for a nutty flavor and crunch.
  • Smoky Balti: Sprinkle a pinch of smoked paprika or add a few drops of liquid smoke for a smoky flavor.
  • Herbed Balti: Experiment with different herbs like fresh mint, cilantro, or basil to add a fragrant twist.

Recipe overview

Experience a taste of the Balti Triangle at home with this delectable Pork Balti recipe. A traditional dish hailing from Birmingham, UK, this flavorful curry is vibrant, aromatic, and simple to prepare. With juicy cubes of pork shoulder cooked in a mixture of balti curry paste and a blend of aromatic spices, the result is a mouthwatering medley of flavors that's sure to impress. The dish is finished with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and a spoonful of natural yogurt for a touch of tangy creaminess. Perfect for a family dinner or a treat on curry night, this Pork Balti pairs beautifully with warm naan bread or steamed rice. Expect a medium-hot curry that is rich, satisfying, and filled with the flavors of classic Indian spices. Ready in under an hour, it's a fantastic way to spice up your weeknight dinners. Enjoy this delicious journey to the heart of the Balti Triangle!

Common questions

  1. How long does it take to cook the pork balti?
    The pork balti takes approximately 45 minutes to cook.
  2. Can I use a different cut of pork?
    Yes, you can use a different cut of pork such as pork loin or pork tenderloin, but keep in mind that the cooking time may vary.
  3. Can I substitute the balti curry paste?
    Yes, if you don't have balti curry paste, you can substitute with any other curry paste of your choice, but it may alter the flavor slightly.
  4. Can I make the pork balti spicier?
    Yes, if you prefer a spicier dish, you can increase the amount of chili powder or add fresh chili peppers to the recipe.
  5. Can I make the pork balti ahead of time?
    Yes, you can make the pork balti ahead of time and reheat it when you are ready to serve. The flavors may even develop more over time.
  6. Can I freeze the leftovers?
    Yes, you can freeze the leftover pork balti in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.
  7. What can I serve with pork balti?
    Pork balti is often served with steamed rice or naan bread. You can also pair it with roti or pita bread.
  8. Can I adjust the spices to suit my taste?
    Absolutely! Feel free to adjust the spices according to your preference. Add more or less of the spices listed in the recipe to suit your taste.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Large pan - A large pan is needed to cook the pork balti along with the other ingredients.
  • Chopping board - A chopping board is useful for chopping or dicing the onions and fresh coriander.
  • Knife - A knife is essential for cutting and preparing the ingredients.
  • Grater - A grater is required to grate the fresh ginger.
  • Spatula or wooden spoon - A spatula or wooden spoon is needed for stirring and mixing the ingredients in the pan.
  • Measuring spoons - Measuring spoons are helpful for accurately measuring the spices and other ingredients.
  • Can opener - A can opener is necessary to open the can of chopped tomatoes.
  • Lemon squeezer - A lemon squeezer can be used to extract the juice from the lemon.
  • Serving dishes - Serving dishes are necessary for presenting and serving the cooked pork balti.

Origin stories

Balti cuisine is said to find its roots in the northern region of Pakistan, specifically the Baltistan area. However, the version we know and love today as Balti actually emerged in the United Kingdom, in the bustling city of Birmingham in the 1970s. The name 'Balti' comes from the steel or iron pot in which the food is cooked and served. Traditional Balti is a quick cooking process, similar to stir frying, and uses fresh meat or fish. The fusion of Indian and Pakistani spices with western style meat cooking techniques led to the creation of this much loved dish. Though traditionally cooked with beef or goat, the version using pork offers a unique twist, adjusting the recipe for those who prefer the taste and texture of pork. So, when you're enjoying your Pork Balti, you're not just having a meal, you're partaking in a culinary adventure that spans continents and decades.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.