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Hairy Bikers Chicken Balti Recipe

Hairy Bikers Chicken Balti
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Hairy Bikers Chicken Balti is a home-style version of the famous curry that originated in Birmingham, UK. The dish is inspired by Pakistani and Kashmiri cooking styles and is usually prepared in a thin steel pan called a balti bowl.

Ingredients

Chicken

  • Chicken breast or thighs (600 g, diced) – Chicken thighs provide juicier texture, while breast meat works well for a leaner option.

Aromatics

  • Onion (1 large, finely chopped) – Builds the base flavor of the curry.

  • Garlic (3 cloves, minced) – Adds depth and warmth.

  • Fresh ginger (1 tablespoon, grated) – Brings aromatic heat.

Tomato Base

  • Chopped tomatoes (400 g can) – Form the main body of the sauce.

  • Tomato puree (2 tablespoons) – Intensifies the tomato flavor.

Spices

  • Ground cumin (1 teaspoon) – Adds earthy warmth.

  • Ground coriander (1 teaspoon) – Gives citrusy spice notes.

  • Turmeric (½ teaspoon) – Adds color and mild flavor.

  • Chili powder (½–1 teaspoon) – Adjust depending on preferred heat level.

  • Garam masala (1 teaspoon) – Adds aromatic depth at the end of cooking.

Instructions

Step 1 – Prepare the Ingredients

Dice the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Chop the onion finely and prepare the garlic and ginger. Having everything ready makes the cooking process quick and smooth.

Step 2 – Cook the Onion Base

Heat oil in a large pan or wok over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for about 5 minutes until it becomes soft and lightly golden.

Step 3 – Add Garlic and Ginger

Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger. Cook for about one minute until fragrant.

Step 4 – Add the Spices

Add cumin, coriander, turmeric, and chili powder. Stir the spices with the onions for about 30 seconds, so they release their aroma.

Step 5 – Brown the Chicken

Add the diced chicken to the pan and cook for several minutes while stirring until the chicken begins to brown.

Step 6 – Add Tomato Base

Stir in the chopped tomatoes and tomato puree. Mix well so the chicken becomes coated with the sauce.

Step 7 – Simmer the Curry

Pour in the water or stock and bring the curry to a gentle simmer. Cook for about 15–20 minutes until the chicken is tender and the sauce thickens.

Step 8 – Finish the Dish

Stir in garam masala and chopped fresh coriander. Taste the curry and adjust salt if needed.

 

Serve hot with naan bread or steamed basmati rice.

Find it online: https://britishrecipes.uk/hairy-bikers-chicken-balti-recipe/