Ajwaini Fish Tikka is a delicious recipe of tender, boneless pieces of fish marinated with spicy and pungent flavours of ajwain (carom seeds) and served hot with green chutney.
Ajwain, also known as carom or oomam, is a pungent, Indian spice which is used extensively in cooking. It has a slightly bitter taste, similar to that of anise or oregano and smells almost identical to thyme. Ajwain is one of those spices that fulfil the twin purpose of adding flavour and being good for health hence the reason behind its wide use in Indian cuisine. Ajwain seeds are rich in fiber, minerals, vitamins and antioxidants and also help in maintaining good digestive health amongst some of its benefits.
The secret to the incredible flavour of this fish tikka is the double marinade – first in salt and lime juice, then with a fragrant yoghurt paste flavoured with punchy ajwain seeds (or carom) and other spices. Cod is an excellent choice of fish if you want to experiment with the accompanying flavours. This white-fleshed fish on its own doesn’t have a strong flavour. It’s got a mild, buttery taste with a juicy flesh that can soak up all the flavours in which you cook it. In short, this fish doesn’t really have a fishy taste, and would also appeal to people who don’t like the fish smell- that’s me! Also, cod is an extremely healthy and nutritious fish as it is low in calories and an excellent source of protein, selenium, and essential omega-3 fatty acid.
Ajwaini Fish Tikka is a easy, and delicious recipe that will surely become a family favourite. You can cook it on a grill, oven or pan!
Other recipes you might to try are Crispy Beer Battered Fish, Kerela Style Fish Parcels, Seared Basil Scallops with Courgette Ribbons and Simple Chimichurri Prawns.
