Turkish Balık Şiş

Turkish Balık Şiş is a beloved street food and restaurant dish featuring chunks of fresh fish, typically bonito or sea bass, marinated in lemon juice, olive oil, and herbs, then grilled on skewers. It originates from the coastal regions of Turkey, particularly the bustling seafood markets of Istanbul and the Aegean coast. The dish is often served with grilled vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad.

🍽️ Nutrition at a glance

Balık Şiş is a high-protein, low-carbohydrate dish, making it an excellent source of lean protein and omega-3 fatty acids. A typical serving provides around 300-400 calories, depending on the fish type and amount of oil used.

Nutrition breakdown

Calories	320 kcal
Protein	35 g
Carbs	5 g
Fat	18 g
Fiber	1 g
Sugar	2 g
Sodium	450 mg
Vitamin D	4.5 mcg
Vitamin B12	4.2 mcg
Selenium	45 mcg
Phosphorus	300 mg
Niacin (B3)	8.5 mg
Potassium	420 mg
Omega-3 (EPA+DHA)	1.2 g
Vitamin E	2.1 mg

Per 1 skewer (150 g) · estimated, varies by recipe

💡 What's interesting

Culturally, Balık Şiş is a symbol of Turkey's rich maritime heritage and is often enjoyed as a social meal, especially during summer evenings by the Bosphorus. Nutritionally, the use of lemon juice in the marinade not only tenderizes the fish but also enhances the absorption of iron from the dish.