Both a type of curry and a specific cooking vessel, the balti is a dish beloved for its deep flavor and easy preparation. The mildly-spiced curry is cooked and served in a unique, wok-shaped dish called a balti—and brought right to the table to enjoy. Since Le Creuset’s founding in 1925, our cookware has become an essential part of the kitchen for cooks all around the world. Over the years, we’ve introduced a few iconic cookware pieces that pay homage to specific dishes or cuisines. The Traditional Round Balti Dish is one of those heritage pieces — our celebration of an authentic curry that marries flavor and technique. Explore the rich history and deep flavor of balti with our take on the traditional dish.
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Balti Beginnings
Though its roots wind back to the mountains of Kashmir in Pakistan, an enterprising Pakistani restaurateur took the traditional one-pot cooking style from his home region and brought it to Birmingham, England in the mid 1970s. He adapted the curry dish to suit British palates and preferences, slightly reducing the level of spice and serving meat off the bone for quicker cooking and eating. The curry was prepared in a wok-style dish that heated rapidly and could be served tableside. Over the years, the popularity of balti has only grown, particularly in the United Kingdom where it is adored. While types of balti vary from cook to cook, almost all combine tomatoes, onions, and garlic for the base of the curry. Our vegetarian take on balti spotlights chickpeas in a creamy, flavorful sauce that’s perfect served with basmati rice.
Get the Recipe: Balti Butter Chickpeas
Built for Flavor
In the UK, balti is a takeaway favorite, but home cooks with a craving for curry can make their own version with Le Creuset’s Balti Dish. The wide surface is ideal for caramelizing onions and searing proteins, both of which are key elements of the quick, flavorful curry. In our recipe for Creamy Chicken Balti, chicken is marinated in ginger, garlic, lime juice, spices, and yogurt before stir-frying. Tomatoes, chicken stock, and heavy cream come together to form the balti’s bright, flavorful sauce. In no time at all, the quick curry is ready to enjoy. In keeping with the balti tradition, serve right from the pot at the table, along with a basket of naan or rice on the side.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Chicken Balti
A Twist on Tradition
The original “balti bowl” was a small, curved pot crafted from pressed steel with a wide, flat base and large handles. Le Creuset’s Balti Dish took the traditional design of the original balti bowl and crafted it in our signature enameled cast iron for improved heat distribution and heat retention. Over time, the satin black enamel finish develops a natural patina that resists sticking and enhances cooking performance. The curved walls and a wide base make it easy to stir and toss, easily integrating spices and flavors. In addition to its namesake curry, the Balti Dish is a wonderful cooking vessel for stir-fries, marinated meats or other vegetable dishes. Like all Le Creuset cookware, the Balti Dish is crafted for a lifetime in the kitchen and on the table. Try your hand at recreating some of your favorite one-pot curries at home and see where your balti journey takes you.
Shop the Traditional Round Balti Dish
