Tom Parker Bowles, the son of Queen Camilla, has shared his passion for sourcing high-quality ingredients while protecting the planet. He encourages people to adopt a more mindful approach to what they consume. His latest book, 'Let's Eat Meat', focuses heavily on ethical choices and making ingredients stretch further in the kitchen. The updated edition features more than a hundred ideas for home cooks, ranging from slow-cooked dishes to quick grilled meals. This comprehensive guide also includes a dedicated section for those looking to reduce their animal protein intake. Readers can discover various ways to embrace planet-friendly dining without compromising on delicious flavours.
A Takeaway Classic Redefined
Tom redefines a takeaway classic: "A good kebab is something wonderful. This recipe came about when my wife asked for a healthy-ish dish for dinner. Wandering down the Uxbridge Road on my way home, I found fresh flatbread. And endless spices. This has a kick and zing, but nothing too overwhelming. The za'atar adds that scent of Eastern promise."
Harissa and Za'atar Marinated Chicken Kebab with Chilli Raita
Ingredients (makes four)
- 6 skinless, boneless chicken thighs, cut into 2.5cm chunks
- Juice of 1 small lemon
- 1 tbsp harissa paste
- 1 tbsp za'atar
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 4 flatbreads or large pitta breads
- 1 head of round lettuce, chopped
- Handful of fresh coriander leaves, roughly chopped
- Handful of fresh parsley, roughly chopped
For the tomato and onion salad:
- 2 tomatoes, roughly chopped
- 1 red onion, roughly chopped
- 2 bird's-eye chillies, chopped
- ½ cucumber, deseeded and finely chopped
- 1 tbsp white wine vinegar
- Big pinch of sea salt
For the chilli raita:
- 200g natural yoghurt
- ½ cucumber, deseeded and finely chopped
- 1 green finger chilli, finely chopped
Method
- Mix the chicken with the lemon juice, harissa and za'atar. Cover and marinate in the fridge for at least one hour, or longer if possible.
- To make the salad, mix all the ingredients together and leave to sit for 10 minutes.
- Mix together the raita ingredients, add a pinch of salt, and leave to sit.
- Drain the chicken well. Heat the oil in a non-stick pan or griddle pan and cook the chicken for three minutes on each side, until cooked through, with piping-hot juices that have no sign of pink when the largest piece is cut in half.
- Heat the breads. Smear chilli raita all over, then scatter over the lettuce and salad. Top with chicken pieces and herbs, and wrap.
Best-Selling Cookbooks to Inspire You
This article contains affiliate links, and we may receive a commission on any sales we generate from it. Looking for some fresh culinary inspiration to transform your weekly meal plans? From gut-health essentials and speedy slimming dishes to effortless slow-cooked comfort food, these top-selling kitchen companions are guaranteed to get you excited about cooking again.
Best for Sustainable and Mindful Dining: Let's Eat Meat by Tom Parker Bowles
This updated publication champions an ethical approach to eating meat by focusing on high-quality sourcing and minimising kitchen waste. It features 120 delicious recipes ranging from slow-cooked classics to quick grills, alongside fantastic planet-friendly alternatives. Price: £26.
Best for Healthy Lifestyle Inspiration: The Food for Life Cookbook by Tim Spector
This scientifically-backed guide features more than 100 delicious and achievable recipes designed to transform your overall well-being. It successfully translates complex gut health and nutrition research into practical, delicious everyday plates. Price: £21.99.
Best for Effortless Home Cooking: Bored of Lunch: The Healthy Slow Cooker Book by Nathan Anthony
This massively popular collection delivers calorie-controlled, nutrient-dense meals that require minimal prep time. Every simple recipe is designed to let your kitchen gadgets do the hard work while keeping healthy eating entirely stress-free. Price: £11.
Best for Quick and Comforting Meals: Feel Good Food by Joe Wicks
The renowned fitness expert provides a vibrant selection of balanced dishes that can be prepped and served in a flash. It is the perfect companion for busy people who want to fuel their bodies with wholesome food without spending hours at the stove. Price: £8.49.
Best for Budget-Friendly Family Dining: Pinch of Nom: Express by Kay Allinson and Kate Allinson
This smash-hit release focuses on big flavours and satisfying portions that will not break the bank or require rare ingredients. It offers incredibly speedy, slimming-friendly alternatives to takeaway classics that the entire household will enjoy. Price: £19.80.
Best for Vibrant, Plant-Forward Feasting: Ottolenghi Comfort by Yotam Ottolenghi and Helen Goh
This celebrated collection redefines nostalgic home cooking by blending classic childhood favourites with bold, aromatic spices. It is a beautiful, inspiring guide that brings layers of warmth, excitement, and fresh flair to everyday vegetable and meat dishes alike. Price: £20. Prices correct at time of publication.
