Knights of the Raj exhibition

Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery is hosting a free exhibition which tells the story of the Bangladeshi community’s major contribution  to the much loved British Curry.

It has some realistic ‘mocked up’ kitchens and dining areas although a trifle disappointingly the wallpaper isn’t of the flock variety.

Some fascinating facts includes the statistic that Birmingham has the biggest Bangladeshi population outside London and that Brum’s first ‘curry house’ was the Darjeeling in 1954 although a ‘John’s Restaurant’ was apparently serving up curries in the forties.

Overall, it’s an exhibition well worth a visit by curry lovers although it’s just a shame that Birmingham’s iconic Balti doesn’t get a mention. The upside on that, of course, is that it’s not the case of the Bangladeshi community trying to lay claim to a dish invented by a Brummie Pakistani!

Knights of the Raj exhibition poster

Knights of the Raj exhibition poster download

I’m often asked about my favourite places to go for a Balti in the Balti Triangle so here’s my current favourites and my reasons. I’ve listed them in alphabetical order so as not to upset any sensibilities!

AL FRASH, Ladypool Road

Al Frash has won a number of awards and favourite customers included the late Sir Terry Wogan. They do one of the best and freshest veg pakoras around and their baltis cooked in organic coconut oil are a real winner.

SHABABS, Ladypool Road

Another restaurant that has won a plethora of awards and can count the Hairy Bikers amongst their fans. Their piping hot baltis are  served up sizzling in jet black bowls, caramelised to a marvellous richness and perfection.

SHAHI NAN KEBAB, Stratford Road

On the hotter side, their baltis are superbly flavoursome whilst packing a decent punch – the chef used to be in the Pakistani Navy so he knows how to cook up a storm.

THE POPULAR, Ladypool Road

Recently refurbished, as its name suggests, this cosy restaurant is a popular local eaterie for those in the know. Tasty baltis with only fresh ingredients used whether meat or veg. However, a highlight are their sheekh kebabs which are of a size and potency which would make even Kim Jong envious!