Description
Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Balti is a fast-cooked, lightly spiced dish made with tender chicken pieces, a tomato-based sauce, and fragrant Balti spices. Traditionally cooked in a “Balti” pan, this dish is known for its intense, well-rounded flavors and quick cooking time.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Marinade:
Marinating the chicken enhances its tenderness and flavor.
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- 500g boneless, skinless chicken thighs (cut into bite-sized pieces)
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- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
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- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
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- ½ teaspoon turmeric
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- ½ teaspoon salt
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- 1 tablespoon yogurt (optional, for extra tenderness)
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- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
For the Balti Sauce:
A rich and fragrant base with deep, complex flavors.
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- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
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- 1 onion (finely chopped)
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- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
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- 1-inch piece ginger (grated)
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- 1 green chili (finely chopped, optional)
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- 1 teaspoon garam masala
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- 1 teaspoon ground paprika
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- ½ teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
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- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
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- 1 can (400g) chopped tomatoes
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- 250ml chicken stock
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- Salt and black pepper (to taste)
For Garnish and Serving:
Enhance the presentation and taste with fresh toppings.
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- Fresh coriander (chopped)
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- Lemon wedges
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- Naan bread, chapati, or basmati rice
Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
A quick marinade infuses the chicken with flavor and helps keep it tender.
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- In a bowl, mix ground cumin, coriander, turmeric, salt, yogurt, and lemon juice.
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- Add the chicken pieces and coat well.
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- Let it marinate for at least 20 minutes (or overnight for deeper flavor).
Step 2: Cook the Aromatics
Sautéing the onions, garlic, and ginger builds the base of the dish.
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- Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat.
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- Add the chopped onion and cook until golden brown.
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- Stir in the garlic, ginger, and green chili, cooking for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Step 3: Toast the Spices
Toasting the spices enhances their depth and aroma.
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- Add garam masala, paprika, and chili powder.
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- Stir for 1-2 minutes to release the flavors.
Step 4: Build the Balti Sauce
A rich and well-balanced sauce brings everything together.
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- Stir in tomato paste and cook for another minute.
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- Pour in the chopped tomatoes and chicken stock.
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- Stir well and bring to a simmer.
Step 5: Cook the Chicken
Simmering ensures the chicken absorbs the bold Balti flavors.
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- Add the marinated chicken pieces to the pan.
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- Cover and simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked.
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- Adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper as needed.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Finishing touches add freshness and enhance the dish.
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- Sprinkle fresh coriander over the curry.
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- Serve with naan bread, chapati, or basmati rice.
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- Add a squeeze of lemon juice for extra brightness.