New cookery book aims to kickstart a revival in the nation buying and cooking its own sustainable fish

Fish and chip shop owners who want to explore cooking with different species of fish and shellfish have a new source of inspiration, as renowned chef, cookery writer and seafood ambassador CJ Jackson launches her latest cookery book.

Great British Seafood Revival encourages consumers to explore the wide variety of fish and seafood available from UK waters, helping to reduce reliance on the “big five” species – cod, haddock, salmon, tuna and prawns.

The book shines a spotlight on a range of species such as plaice, megrim, coley, witch, wolfish, brill, squid, octopus and mussels, offering both inspiration and practical guidance. It also covers smoked fish, native seafood, farmed fish and even catching your own, alongside advice on selecting fillets, preparation techniques and storage.

Featuring over 50 recipes from salads and pasta to flatbread and fajitas, the book includes ideas such as Steamed Lemon Cod with Samphire, Stuffed Megrim, Pan-Fried Brill, Hot Smoked Hake and Barbecued Bass, showcasing the versatility of British seafood.

The cookbook is brought to life with beautiful imagery by world-renowned photographer Steve Lee and was put together following CJ Jackson’s travels across the UK, including visits to key fishing ports such as Peterhead, Billingsgate, Hastings and Newlyn. Through these journeys, she highlights leading seafood producers and the richness of Britain’s coastal offering.

Great British Seafood Revival aims to inspire a shift in buying and cooking habits, encouraging people to rediscover sustainable, locally sourced fish that has often been overlooked.

The 290-page hardback book costs £25 and is available from your local bookshop or at Merlin Unwin Books.