Pacific Paradise: Tantalizing Tuna Poke Bowl Recipe

We were the fortunate recipients of a piece of my wife’s friend’s deep sea fishing haul and had a few generous pounds of fresh tuna on hand to enjoy. This quality of tuna, I prefer to prepare in raw form to fully enjoy the taste and texture of freshly pulled from the ocean fish so I decided to prepare tuna poke bowls. In the world of seafood, few dishes are as vibrant and refreshing as Tuna Poke. Hailing from the tropical paradise of Hawaii, this delectable dish has transcended its origins to become a global sensation.

The roots of Tuna Poke can be traced back to the indigenous peoples of Hawaii, who practiced sustainable fishing and cherished the flavors of the sea. The term "poke" (pronounced poh-kay) in Hawaiian means "to slice" or "cut crosswise into pieces." Traditionally, poke consisted of freshly caught fish, often tuna or octopus, marinated with simple ingredients like sea salt, seaweed, and crushed kukui nuts. Over the years, this humble dish evolved, incorporating new ingredients and flavors from various culinary traditions. Today, Tuna Poke is celebrated worldwide for its fusion of tastes, textures, and vibrant colors.

Tuna Poke Bowl Ingredients

Serving size: 2

• 1 pound fresh, sushi grade, raw tuna, diced into large cubes

• 2 1/2 Tablespoons soy sauce

• 1 Tablespoon sesame oil

• 1 teaspoon mirin (can substitute with 1/2 teaspoon sugar)

• 1 teaspoon sambal (can substitute with whatever hot sauce you have on hand or garlic chili)

• 1 Tablespoon sesame seeds

• 1/2 onion, thinly sliced

• 1 pack of roasted sea salt seaweed snack (you can substitute for your favorite nori)

• 1 1/2 cups of rice (for serving)

• Optional Ingredients to add to your bowl: avocado slices, pineapple cubes, mango cubes, green onion, cucumber, seaweed salad

Tuna Poke Bowl Instructions

• prepare rice in rice cooker, according to instructions

• In a medium mixing bowl, combine the soy sauce, sesame oil, mirin, samba and sesame seeds.

• Add onion and then tuna cubes to the mixture making sure the pieces are evenly coated with the sauce.

• break up seaweed snack nori sheets and combine to the mixture

• place rice into serving bowls and top with the tuna mix and enjoy!

Variations and Creativity

One of the beauties of Tuna Poke is its versatility. You can experiment with various ingredients to tailor the dish to your tastes. Here are some creative ideas:

1. Avocado: Creamy avocado chunks add richness and a delightful contrast in texture.

2. Mango: Diced ripe mango provides sweetness and a burst of tropical flavor.

3. Edamame: Steamed edamame beans introduce a vibrant green color and a satisfying crunch.

4. Crispy Wonton Strips: For added crunch, consider topping your Tuna Poke with crispy wonton strips.

5. Spicy Mayo: A drizzle of sriracha mayo or spicy mayo can lend an extra layer of flavor and heat.

Tuna Poke is a dish that encapsulates the essence of the Pacific Islands - fresh, vibrant, and full of life. It's a culinary journey that transports you to the pristine waters of Hawaii and beyond. Whether you enjoy it as an appetizer, a light meal, or a show-stopping dish for a special occasion, Tuna Poke is a testament to the beauty of simplicity and the wonders of the ocean. So, gather your freshest ingredients and embark on your own culinary adventure to savor the magic of Tuna Poke.