The Balti, Its Birth, Its Boom Years and Beyond- LAUNCH EVENT

 

Last week marked the official release of Balti blogger, author and Historian 'Andy Munro's' new updated book about Birmingham's iconic dish- The Balti, Its Birth, Its Boom Years and Beyond. With a foreword from Birmingham based Michelin Star Chef Brad Carter the book charts the story of one of Britain’s most iconic dishes, from its birth in 1975 in a part of Birmingham that became known as the Balti Triangle, through the height of its popularity in the 1990s to its more recent demise—though not disappearance—in competition with a proliferation of burger joints and dessert parlours.  Interviews with chefs and owners give a rare insight into the running of family restaurants and the tremendous impact the balti has had on many a Birmingham business. Andy Munro shares some of the best and most authentic balti recipes out there, given by the greatest balti houses past and present. He also delves into the manufacturing history and health benefits of the unique Birmingham-made carbon steel ‘balti bowl. 

The launch party was held at the iconic 'Shababs' - located in the heart of the Balti Triangle. Food was provided to Andy as a gift from restaurant owner 'Zaf', who works closely with Andy to safeguard the future of the balti for future generations of Brummies. A special performance was commissioned and performed by 'Infinite Opera' using a unique Birmingham born instrument- the 'Baltiphone' to mark the occasion. The instrument is made of balti bowls and played as percussion.  Beer was kindly gifted by The Birmingham Brewing Company,   

The event was attended by an invited audience of local officials from Birmingham City Council, The Lord Mayor, local historian Professor Carl Chinn MBE, journalists who have offered support and shown interest in helping secure recognition for Birmingham Balti, including Ichoose Magazine, The Birmingham Dispatch and Waitrose Food Magazine, and some well known curry bloggers including Richard Sayce (aka Misty Ricardo), Stephen Heap, Matt Cooper Bites and Matt Hutson (The CEO of Curry Twitter)

The event was a chance to say thank you and further discuss the history of Birmingham Balti- with discussion about the progress of the application for the new UK scheme that recognises UK foods of intangible heritage and especially those with cultural significance and those that are at risk of disappearing from our communities.     

Those attending enjoyed a balti and shared giant table naans between them- rice was discouraged in true balti style!   

 

A wonderful occasion to reflect on what Birmingham Balti means to the City and celebrate the contribution of Birmingham's Kashmiri diaspora community who gifted the City it's own iconic dish and to Andy, who has spent the past 30 plus years documenting the dish in detail and safeguarding, recording and sharing the history in his new book.   

Purchase a signed copy HERE