Fish Kebab

Looking to explore something new while still sticking to your “healthy chicken” food routine? Dive into the world of flavourful fish kebabs, a hearty and protein-rich alternative that ticks all the right boxes — nutritious, delicious, and surprisingly easy to prepare. Whether you’re spicing up a weekday dinner or impressing guests at a weekend barbecue, this recipe will elevate your healthy meal planning in the tastiest way possible.

With the growing popularity of healthy chicken recipes in the UK, many are now turning to fish kebabs for a lighter, omega-3-packed twist. These kebabs offer a similar protein hit while being lower in fat and higher in essential nutrients. So, if you’re on the hunt for “healthy chicken” alternatives that don’t skimp on taste, you’re in for a treat.

Ingredients and Quantities:

Here’s everything you need to whip up a batch of succulent fish kebabs:

Fish (boneless, firm white fish preferred) – ½ kg
Garlic powder – 1 tbsp
Turmeric powder – 1 tbsp
Potatoes (boiled & grated) – 2 large
Red chili powder – 1 tbsp
Garam masala – 1 tbsp
Cumin seeds – 2 tbsp
Salt – 1 tsp
Onion (finely chopped) – 1 large
Green chilies (finely chopped) – 6–8
Fresh coriander (chopped) – ½ cup
Black pepper (crushed) – 1 tbsp
Oil – 1 cup (for frying or brushing if baking)

Culinary Process: From Pan to Plate

Pre-cook the Fish:
In a pan, add the fish, garlic powder, turmeric powder, salt, and 1 cup of water. Cook over high flame for 5 minutes, allowing the fish to soak in the aromatic spices as the water evaporates.
Cool and Mix:
Let the cooked fish cool completely. Once cooled, mash it lightly and combine with all the remaining ingredients (except oil). Mix thoroughly until you get a cohesive, kebab-friendly mixture.
Shape the Kebabs:
Form small round or oval-shaped kebabs using your hands. The mashed potatoes help bind the kebabs and provide a fluffy texture.
Fry or Bake:
- Fry Option: Shallow fry the kebabs in oil for 4–5 minutes on medium heat until golden brown and crispy.
- Bake Option: For a healthier spin, brush them with a little oil and bake in a preheated oven at 180°C for 20 minutes, flipping once halfway.
Serve & Enjoy:
Serve hot with mint yoghurt dip, garlic sauce, or tamarind chutney for a flavour explosion.

Nutritional Counts (Per 2 Kebabs / Serving):

Calories: 260 kcal
Protein: 23g
Carbohydrates: 18g
Fat: 11g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Fibre: 3g
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 420mg

Compared to your average fried chicken or chicken kebabs, these fish kebabs are lighter in fat and sodium — a great option for those trying to balance healthy chicken cravings with something new and equally wholesome.

Why Choose Fish Kebab Over Regular Chicken?

While healthy chicken remains a UK household favourite, fish kebabs offer a refreshing variation in flavour and health benefits. The omega-3 fatty acids found in white fish are excellent for heart and brain health, helping reduce inflammation and improve cognitive function. Paired with ingredients like turmeric and garlic — both known for their anti-inflammatory properties — this dish becomes a mini health powerhouse.

Make-Ahead & Storage Tips:

Meal Prep Friendly: Make a large batch and freeze them. Simply shape the kebabs, line them on a tray, and freeze individually before transferring to a freezer bag.
To Reheat: Bake in a preheated oven or air fryer straight from frozen — no thawing needed.

Fun Serving Ideas:

Wrap in a wholemeal pita with salad and hummus.
Serve on skewers with grilled vegetables for party bites.
Place inside a brioche bun for a gourmet fish burger.
Pair with a bowl of couscous or brown rice and roasted veggies for a balanced dinner.

A Dish for Every Season

Whether it’s a chilly UK evening or a breezy summer BBQ, fish kebabs fit perfectly into every season. You can tweak the spice level to suit your preference and even switch the fish type depending on availability — cod, haddock, or tilapia work wonderfully.

Final Thoughts

Incorporating “healthy chicken” alternatives like these flavour-packed fish kebabs is a smart way to keep your meals exciting and balanced. They not only offer a fresh take on traditional kebabs but also provide the perfect harmony of taste and nutrition. With their ease of preparation and versatile serving options, they are bound to become a regular feature on your healthy meal plan.