If you’ve ever been to Hawaii, chances are you’ve enjoyed a poke bowl. Poke (pronounced pok-eh) is popular island fare thanks to its simple preparation and fresh taste. Luckily for those of us who don’t live on an island, poke is making its way across the country and is easy to make at home.
What are Poke Bowls?
Poke originated from fishermen who were using leftover pieces of their catch to make snacks. Influenced by Asian cuisines, it then began making its way to the seafood shacks and restaurants of Hawaii, feeding residents and tourists in the know alike.
They're traditionally made with ahi tuna or octopus, but you can use many other kinds of fish. Poke is a Hawaiian word meaning “to cut,” which describes the preparation of the fish, which can resemble a tartare.
The fish is marinated in a sauce of soy and sesame, then served with rice, seaweed, or kale, and topped with sesame seeds, green onions, or furikake seasoning.
Salmon Poke with Cucumber and Avocado opens in a new tab
How to Enjoy Poke
To make your own poke bowls, try our Salmon Poke with Cucumber and Avocado opens in a new tab recipe, or select your own favorite fish. Because the fish is raw, make sure to buy high-quality, sushi-grade fish. The seafood monger at your local store can help you select the best fish!
Cut the fish into large pieces, dress with a mixture of soy, sesame oil, ginger, and green onions, then serve on top of rice or kale salad.
Here are a few tasty additions for your poke:
· Diced avocado
· Pickled ginger
· Furikake seasoning
· Seaweed salad
· Macadamia nuts
· Sliced hot peppers, such as serrano or fresno
· Shaved green onion
· Pickled jalapenos
· Diced red onion
· Wasabi
Poke bowls are light, refreshing, and perfect for summer. Try them today!
