Many of us grew up with the old favourite frozen fish fingers, but there are so many different and exciting ways to serve up fish that your kids will love. But, first, why should you serve fish to your family? For one thing, fish and seafood offer numerous nutrients that are especially important for growing kids.
The health benefits of fish
Healthychildren.org shares that one of the primary nutrients fish offers is healthy fats in the form of docosahexaenoic acid – more commonly known as DHA. DHA, an omega-3 fatty acid, is vital for developing brains, nervous systems and vision. In fact, Sea Harvest adds that pregnant women should also consume omega-3 fatty acids as so much of your child’s brain is already developed in the womb.
Sea Harvest also says fish such as Cape hake is an excellent source of vitamin D, which children need for strong bones and to aid their immune system. Very few food sources contain vitamin D, which is why it’s important to consume fish at least once a week.
In addition, fish is a form of protein, which is also essential during the rapid growth that takes place in childhood.
The convenience of frozen fish
Fresh fish has a very short shelf life, so how can you be sure to always have it at hand? Easy! Keep frozen fish in your freezer ready to go at a moment’s notice. The US Department of Agriculture says for the best quality, frozen fish should be used within three to eight months.
With frozen fish a staple in your freezer, there are so many easy and delicious meals you can whip up at a moment’s notice, meaning you spend less time in the kitchen while ensuring your kids still have a healthy meal every day this summer. Here are some of our favourite ways to use frozen fish in family-friendly meals.
Burgers
Thanks to its versatility, fish combines really well with fresh ingredients such as avo, slaw, tomato and pesto.
Try these recipes:
Basil pesto and baby tomato hake burger
Hawaiian Crisp & Chunky fish burgers
These are similar enough to burgers to tempt your little one’s taste buds away from that childhood staple. Add pickled vegetables and subtle Asian flavours to expand your kid’s palate.
Try these recipes:
Crisp & Chunky bao buns with miso mayo
Bao buns with crunchy fish nuggets
Fakeaways
Forget about greasy, unhealthy takeaways! Use pantry and freezer staples to create quick “fakeaways” that are even more delicious than the real thing.
Try these recipes:
Crisp & Chunky with sweet-and-sour stir-fry
Middle Eastern-style Fish Friday flatbreads
Fish Finger poke bowl with avocado dip
Fish Friday with roasted aloo gobi
Golden, crispy fish paired with your child’s favourite fruits and veggies make a healthy, well-balanced lunchbox that will be the envy of your kids’ friends! This is also a great idea for a garden picnic during the summer holidays.
Try these recipes:
Fun Hake Bake platters for kids
Hake Bakes with mini cheese-and-broccoli frittatas
Crisp & Chunky cheesy sailboats
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