5 Best Hawaiian Poke Recipes to Try Now

In the vibrant world of culinary delights, Hawaiian poke stands out as a fresh, flavorful dish that has captured the taste buds of food lovers worldwide. Originating from Hawaii, poke, pronounced "poh-kay," traditionally consists of cubes or slices of raw fish marinated with ingredients like soy sauce, sesame oil, green onions, and occasionally seaweed. Here, we delve into five of the best Hawaiian poke recipes that you can try at home, showcasing different flavors and textures that highlight the versatility of this beloved dish.

Classic Ahi Poke

The cornerstone of poke, Classic Ahi Poke, involves fresh ahi tuna or yellowfin tuna, which is the star of the dish. Here's how you can make it:

• Ingredients:
  • 1 pound of fresh sushi-grade Ahi tuna, cubed
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 2 teaspoons grated ginger
  • 1/2 cup chopped green onions
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped sweet onion
  • 2 teaspoons sesame seeds (for garnish)
  • Sea salt to taste
• Instructions:
  1. Combine soy sauce, sesame oil, vinegar, and ginger in a bowl to make the marinade.
  2. Add the tuna cubes to the marinade, gently stirring to coat evenly.
  3. Let it marinate for 5 to 15 minutes in the refrigerator.
  4. Add onions and mix gently. Taste and adjust with salt if needed.
  5. Sprinkle with sesame seeds before serving.

⭐ Note: Ensure that the tuna is sushi-grade to avoid any food safety issues when consuming raw fish.

Spicy Sriracha Poke

For those who love a bit of heat, Spicy Sriracha Poke adds a kick to the traditional flavors. Here are the steps to make this zesty poke:

• Ingredients:
  • 1 pound of sushi-grade tuna or salmon, cubed
  • 3 tablespoons Sriracha sauce
  • 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon honey or agave syrup
  • 1/2 cup finely chopped cucumber
  • 1/2 cup thinly sliced red onion
• Instructions:
  1. Mix Sriracha, mayonnaise, vinegar, soy sauce, and honey to form the sauce.
  2. Add the fish cubes, cucumber, and red onion to the sauce, stirring gently.
  3. Refrigerate for at least 10 minutes to let flavors meld.
  4. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

🌶 Note: Adjust the amount of Sriracha to control the level of spiciness according to your taste.

Hawaiian Mango Poke

The Hawaiian Mango Poke combines the sweetness of mango with the savory richness of tuna, making for a refreshing and unique poke experience:

• Ingredients:
  • 1 pound of sushi-grade tuna, cubed
  • 1 ripe mango, diced
  • 1/4 cup coconut milk
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon finely grated ginger
  • 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion
  • Fresh mint or cilantro for garnish
• Instructions:
  1. Mix coconut milk, lime juice, soy sauce, and ginger to make the marinade.
  2. Gently toss the tuna and mango in the marinade.
  3. Let it sit for about 10 minutes.
  4. Garnish with onions and mint or cilantro before serving.

🍍 Note: Choose a ripe yet firm mango for this recipe to ensure it holds its shape.

Avocado and Tofu Poke

Those seeking a vegan option can enjoy this Avocado and Tofu Poke that's full of creamy textures and vibrant flavors:

• Ingredients:
  • 1 block of firm tofu, cubed
  • 2 ripe avocados, diced
  • 3 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon wasabi paste (optional)
  • 1/4 cup thinly sliced green onions
  • Toasted sesame seeds for garnish
• Instructions:
  1. Prepare the sauce by mixing soy sauce, sesame oil, vinegar, and wasabi.
  2. Toss tofu and avocado in the sauce, ensuring even coating.
  3. Let marinate for at least 15 minutes in the refrigerator.
  4. Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds before serving.

🌱 Note: Tofu should be well-drained and patted dry to absorb flavors better.

Shrimp Poke Bowl

For those who prefer shellfish, a Shrimp Poke Bowl offers a lighter and equally delightful poke experience:

• Ingredients:
  • 1 pound of cooked and chilled shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
  • 1 teaspoon finely grated ginger
  • 1/2 cup thinly sliced cucumber
  • 1/2 cup shredded carrots
  • 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
  • Lime wedges for serving
• Instructions:
  1. Whisk together soy sauce, vinegar, lime juice, and ginger to create the dressing.
  2. Add the shrimp, cucumber, carrots, and cilantro to the dressing, mixing well.
  3. Allow flavors to meld for about 10 minutes.
  4. Serve with lime wedges on the side.

🍤 Note: If using raw shrimp, ensure they are cooked and cooled to the appropriate temperature before adding to the poke.

In summary, Hawaiian poke is not just a dish but a culinary celebration of fresh, vibrant ingredients. Each recipe above brings its own unique twist to the table, from the classic ahi to the fusion of flavors in spicy sriracha, the tropical mango, the vegan-friendly avocado and tofu, to the zesty shrimp bowl. Whether you're a raw fish aficionado or looking for vegan and vegetarian options, these poke recipes provide a variety of tastes and textures, making it easy to enjoy this Hawaiian staple at home. Experiment with these recipes, adjusting ingredients to your taste, and immerse yourself in the flavors of the islands.

What is the difference between traditional poke and modern poke?

+

Traditional poke refers to the original method of marinating raw fish, usually tuna, with basic ingredients like soy sauce, onions, and seaweed. Modern poke has evolved to include a wider variety of fish and additional flavors, such as Sriracha, mango, and even tofu for vegan options.

Is poke safe to eat?

+

Poke is safe to eat as long as you use sushi-grade fish, which is meant to be consumed raw, ensuring it’s free from parasites and bacteria. Always buy from reputable sources and follow proper food safety guidelines.

Can I make poke ahead of time?

+

You can prepare poke a few hours in advance, but it’s best to consume it within 24 hours for optimal freshness and flavor. Ingredients like avocado and cucumber might not hold up well over time, so consider adding them just before serving.