Ahi poke, also known simply as poke, is a popular Hawaiian dish made from fresh, raw tuna or other seafood, typically marinated and seasoned with a variety of ingredients for a flavorful and refreshing appetizer or main course. Here’s a basic recipe for ahi poke:
Ingredients:
- 1 pound fresh sushi-grade ahi tuna (yellowfin or bigeye), diced into bite-sized cubes
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (low-sodium is preferable)
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, minced
- 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon honey or brown sugar (optional, for sweetness)
- 2-3 green onions, thinly sliced
- 1/2 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Sliced avocado, cucumber, or seaweed salad (optional, for garnish)
- Cooked sushi rice or steamed white rice (optional, as a base)
Instructions:
- Start by ensuring that your ahi tuna is fresh, sushi-grade, and properly chilled.
- Carefully dice the tuna into bite-sized cubes and place them in a large mixing bowl.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, minced ginger, minced garlic, and honey (if using). Taste the marinade and adjust the flavors to your liking, adding more soy sauce, sesame oil, or sweetness as needed.
- Pour the marinade over the diced tuna in the mixing bowl.
- Gently toss the tuna cubes in the marinade to coat them evenly. Be gentle to avoid breaking the delicate fish.
- Add the sliced green onions, toasted sesame seeds, and red pepper flakes (if using) to the bowl. Mix everything together.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the tuna to marinate.
- When ready to serve, you can present the ahi poke in various ways. It can be served on its own as an appetizer or with rice as a main dish. You can also garnish it with sliced avocado, cucumber, or seaweed salad for added flavor and texture.
- Enjoy your ahi poke immediately while it’s fresh and cold.
Ahi poke is a versatile dish that allows for plenty of customization. You can adjust the seasonings, garnishes, and accompaniments to suit your taste. It’s a delicious and healthy option for seafood lovers and a popular dish in Hawaiian cuisine.