The word Balti literally translates (means) bucket - but it is actually a round flat bottomed wok with side handles. These were originally used by the people in the Baltistan region of Pakistan.

Balti is a special way of stir-frying fresh ingredients with very aromatic spices. It is subtle yet spicy and that means that you can taste the flavour of the dish rather than the heat of the chillies.

Many Balti names will sound similar to the curries served in traditional Indian restaurants but there is no similarity to either the method of cooking or the taste. Nor will you find a great amount of sauce in a Balti meal.

A Balti meal is cooked and served in a flat-bottomed wok-like pot. This is the traditional way of cooking and presentation.