Balti Beanz On Toast Recipe

A special one here for the girls at Naughty Curry. This recipe is known by many names in the UK eg "Masala Beans" and is a staple favourite of British Asian families. This recipe is slightly adapted from Manju Malhi's version in her book "Brit Spice" the essential reading on Anglo Asian cuisine. Here goes:


Balti Beans on Toast

Serves 2, Preparation time 2 minutes, Cooking 8 minutes

2tbsp vegetable oil
1 onion peeled and chopped
1 green chilli, seeded and very finely chopped
1/4 tsp garam masala
1/4 tsp ground cumin
1/4 tsp ground coriander
Large can (around 400g) Heinz Baked Beanz
Pinch of salt (if you really must)
4 slices thick crunchy seeded brown bread

First find the roughest tastiest thick brown bread you can and make hot buttery toast. If you want it a bit more authentic, you can try chapatis or naan bread with this.

Heat oil in a small saucepan, then put in the onion. Fry for 1 minute add the chopped chilli and cook for a couple of minutes, stirring continuously until the onion begins to turn golden brown. Add the spices and fry for 3 minutes. Taste, then season with salt if you really think its necessary! Personally I find it OK without salt.

Pour over the toast (on a plate stupid) and serve hot, garnish with a bit of fresh coriander if you are trying to impress the boyfriend. Serve with gallons of rough red wine or for a real treat, try a cup of Indian spiced tea.

TIP: to make it a bit creamier and add a bit of gloss (where would we be without a bit of gloss?) stir in a knob of butter once the beans are cooked