Chicken Balti Pies

Chicken Balti Pies are a delicious fusion dish combining the rich flavors of Indian Balti curry with the comforting, flaky crust of a traditional British pie. This innovative combination results in a pie filled with tender chicken pieces simmered in a spicy, aromatic Balti sauce, all encased in a buttery pastry. Originating in Birmingham, England, the Balti curry has become a popular choice in British-Indian cuisine, known for its unique cooking method and robust flavors.

Ingredients for Chicken Balti Pies

To make Chicken Balti Pies, you will need ingredients for both the filling and the pastry. For the filling, gather boneless, skinless chicken thighs, which provide a juicy and tender texture. The Balti sauce is made with onions, garlic, ginger, and a blend of spices including cumin, coriander, turmeric, garam masala, and chili powder. Additionally, tomatoes and yogurt or cream create a rich and tangy sauce. Fresh cilantro adds a burst of flavor and color. For the pastry, you can use store-bought shortcrust pastry for convenience, or make your own using flour, butter, and a pinch of salt. Egg wash is used to give the pastry a golden, glossy finish.

Preparing Chicken Balti Pies

Cooking the Chicken Balti Filling

Start by preparing the Balti sauce, which is the heart of the Chicken Balti Pie. Heat a tablespoon of oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add finely chopped onions and cook until they are soft and golden. Add minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for another minute until fragrant. Then, stir in the spices: cumin, coriander, turmeric, garam masala, and chili powder. Cook the spices for a minute to release their aromas and enhance the flavor of the sauce. Add chopped tomatoes and cook until they break down and form a thick sauce. Stir in yogurt or cream, mixing until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Add the chicken pieces, ensuring they are fully coated in the sauce. Simmer the mixture until the chicken is cooked through and tender, about 15-20 minutes. Season with salt and freshly chopped cilantro, then set aside to cool slightly.

Preparing the Pastry

While the filling cools, prepare the pastry. If using store-bought shortcrust pastry, roll it out on a floured surface to the desired thickness. If making your own, combine flour, cold butter, and a pinch of salt in a bowl. Rub the butter into the flour with your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse breadcrumbs. Gradually add cold water, mixing until the dough comes together. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes to rest. Once chilled, roll out the pastry on a floured surface. Cut out circles large enough to line the cups of a muffin tin, as well as smaller circles for the pie tops.

Assembling and Baking the Pies

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a muffin tin and line each cup with a circle of pastry, pressing gently to fit. Spoon the chicken Balti filling into each pastry shell, filling them generously. Place a smaller pastry circle on top of each pie, pressing the edges together to seal. Use a fork to crimp the edges and create a decorative pattern. Cut a small slit in the top of each pie to allow steam to escape during baking. Brush the tops with egg wash for a golden finish. Bake the pies in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and crisp. Allow the pies to cool slightly before removing them from the tin.

Serving Suggestions

Chicken Balti Pies are versatile and can be served in various ways, making them perfect for meals or snacks. Enjoy them hot with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. They also pair well with classic British sides like mushy peas or mashed potatoes. For a more traditional Indian twist, serve the pies with a side of raita, chutney, or a cooling yogurt sauce. These pies are also great for picnics, parties, or as a portable lunch, as they can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature. A cold beer or a glass of chilled white wine complements the spicy flavors of the Balti filling, making for a satisfying and refreshing dining experience.

Nutritional Information and Benefits

Chicken Balti Pies provide a balanced meal, offering protein from the chicken and carbohydrates from the pastry. The use of spices in the Balti sauce not only adds flavor but also provides various health benefits, including anti-inflammatory properties from turmeric and digestive benefits from cumin and coriander. While the pies are a hearty and filling option, they can be adjusted to suit different dietary needs. Using a lighter pastry or substituting with whole wheat flour can increase the fiber content. Additionally, using less cream or yogurt and more tomatoes in the sauce can reduce the overall fat content, making the pies a healthier option without sacrificing flavor.

Storage and Reheating

Chicken Balti Pies can be stored and reheated, making them a convenient option for meal prep or leftovers. To store, allow the pies to cool completely, then place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze the pies individually or in batches. When ready to eat, reheat the pies in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. If reheating from frozen, extend the time to 25-30 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as this can make the pastry soggy. Proper storage and reheating help maintain the quality and flavor of the pies.

Safety Tips

When preparing Chicken Balti Pies, ensure all ingredients are fresh and properly handled to avoid foodborne illness. Use clean utensils and surfaces, especially when handling raw chicken. Cook the chicken to a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure it is fully cooked. Store any leftovers promptly and consume them within a safe timeframe. By following these safety practices, you can enjoy your Chicken Balti Pies with confidence, knowing they are both delicious and safe to eat.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use a different type of meat for Balti Pies?
   • Yes, you can substitute chicken with lamb, beef, or even a plant-based protein for a vegetarian version.
2. Can I make the filling ahead of time?
   • Yes, the filling can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. This can help save time when assembling the pies.
3. What can I serve with Chicken Balti Pies?
   • Serve with a side salad, steamed vegetables, or traditional Indian sides like raita or chutney.
4. Can I freeze Chicken Balti Pies?
   • Yes, the pies freeze well. Store them in an airtight container or freezer bag, and reheat them in the oven.
5. How do I prevent the pies from being soggy?
   • Ensure the filling is not too wet and avoid overfilling the pies. Properly crimping the pastry edges can also help seal in the filling.
6. What type of pastry is best for Balti Pies?
   • Shortcrust pastry is traditional, but puff pastry can also be used for a flakier texture.
7. How do I reheat Balti Pies without drying them out?
   • Reheat in the oven at a moderate temperature and cover them lightly with foil to prevent drying out.
8. Can I make mini Chicken Balti Pies?
   • Yes, you can use a smaller muffin tin to make mini pies, which are perfect for appetizers or snacks.
9. What if I don’t have all the spices for the Balti sauce?
   • You can use a pre-made Balti or curry spice blend as a substitute for individual spices.
10. Can I serve Chicken Balti Pies cold?
    • While they are best enjoyed warm, Chicken Balti Pies can be served cold, especially when packed for lunches or picnics.

Conclusion

Chicken Balti Pies offer a delicious fusion of British and Indian culinary traditions, combining the rich flavors of Balti curry with the comforting texture of a pastry pie. This unique dish is perfect for those who enjoy bold and hearty flavors, providing a satisfying meal that can be enjoyed at any time. Whether served as a main course or as part of a larger spread, Chicken Balti Pies are sure to impress with their delicious filling and flaky crust. Enjoy this innovative and flavorful dish, and savor the best of both British and Indian cuisine in one delightful bite.

Chicken Balti Pies Recipe

Ingredients

For the Pastry:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup cold butter, cubed
• 1/4 cup cold water (more if needed)
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

For the Chicken Balti Filling:

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
• 2 tablespoons Balti curry paste or your favorite curry paste
• 1 pound chicken breast, diced into small pieces
• 1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup frozen peas
• 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Pastry:

• First, in a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the cold, cubed butter and use your fingers or a pastry cutter to rub the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add the cold water, mixing until the dough comes together. If necessary, add a bit more water. Form the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

2. Prepare the Chicken Balti Filling:

• While the pastry chills, heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until softened. Then, add the minced garlic and ginger, cooking for another minute until fragrant. Stir in the Balti curry paste and cook for 1-2 minutes to release the flavors.

3. Cook the Chicken:

• Add the diced chicken to the skillet and cook until it is browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Then, pour in the diced tomatoes and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Let the mixture simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened and the chicken is cooked through. Stir in the frozen peas and chopped cilantro (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat and let the filling cool slightly.

4. Roll Out the Pastry:

• Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). On a floured surface, roll out the chilled pastry dough to about 1/8-inch thickness. Cut out circles large enough to fit into a muffin tin or individual pie tins, reserving some dough for the tops.

5. Assemble the Pies:

• Line the muffin tin or pie tins with the pastry circles, pressing gently to fit. Fill each pastry case with the chicken Balti filling. Then, cut out smaller circles from the remaining pastry to form the lids, placing them over the filling. Crimp the edges to seal, and cut a small slit in the top of each pie to allow steam to escape.

6. Bake the Pies:

• Brush the tops of the pies with the beaten egg to give them a golden, shiny finish. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and cooked through.

7. Serve:

• Finally, allow the pies to cool slightly before serving.

These Chicken Balti Pies are a flavorful and comforting dish, combining a rich, spiced filling with a buttery pastry crust. They are perfect for a hearty meal and are great for sharing. Enjoy!