Tuna Poke, the Hawaiian Raw-Tuna Salad, is a vibrant and refreshing dish that embodies the flavors of the ocean and the spirit of Aloha. This salad features succulent, sushi-grade tuna, marinated to perfection in a savory blend of soy sauce, sesame oil, and fresh ingredients. Its appeal lies not only in its deliciously rich taste but also in its eye-catching presentation, making it a perfect dish for any summer gathering or light dinner.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
You will fall in love with this Tuna Poke recipe for several reasons. First and foremost, the flavor profile is simply irresistible; the combination of fresh tuna, soy sauce, and a hint of sesame creates a savory delight that is hard to beat. The recipe is incredibly easy to prepare, taking mere minutes to mix together, making it ideal for both beginners and seasoned cooks. Plus, it’s a fantastic option for those following a low-carb or high-protein diet, satisfying hunger without weighing you down.
Tips and Tricks
- Use sushi-grade tuna: Always choose the freshest sushi-grade tuna for the best flavor and safety. Ask your fishmonger for recommendations.
- Marinate briefly: Allow the tuna to marinate for just 15-30 minutes to absorb the flavors without losing its delicate texture.
- Experiment with toppings: Add various toppings like seaweed salad, sliced avocado, or even mango for a unique twist.
- Chill your bowl: For an extra refreshing dish, chill your serving bowl in the refrigerator before plating.
Make Ahead Tips
This Tuna Poke can be partly prepared in advance, making it great for meal prep. You can chop the vegetables and prepare the marinade up to a day ahead. Store the tuna in the refrigerator, and only mix it with the marinade and vegetables right before serving to keep everything fresh. When stored properly in an airtight container, the marinated poke will stay fresh for up to 24 hours.
Recipe Variations
Feel free to customize your Tuna Poke by switching up the ingredients. Try using spicy mayo instead of traditional soy sauce for a creamy kick, or substitute the tuna with salmon or even cooked shrimp. You can also add fruits like diced pineapple for sweetness or jalapeños for a bit of heat.
How to Serve
Serve your Tuna Poke in a chilled bowl or on a plate for a stunning presentation. Garnish with sliced green onions, sesame seeds, and perhaps a sprinkle of nori flakes for added texture. You can accompany it with a side of rice or crispy wonton chips for a delightful contrast.
Pairing Suggestions
For a drink pairing, a chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or a light, fruity cocktail like a mojito complements the dish beautifully. If you’re looking for a non-alcoholic option, a refreshing iced green tea would be an excellent choice. As for sides, a simple cucumber salad or a refreshing fruit salad works wonderfully.
How to Store
Leftover Tuna Poke should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consumed within 24 hours for best quality. Avoid freezing the poke, as raw fish does not retain its texture well when frozen. If you have leftover toppings, store them separately to keep everything fresh.
Equipment Needed
You will need a sharp knife for cutting the tuna and vegetables, a mixing bowl for marinating, and a small whisk or fork for combining the marinade ingredients. A cutting board is also essential. If you don’t have a whisk, a fork works just as well!
Dietary Adaptations
To make this recipe allergen-friendly, consider substituting soy sauce with tamari for a gluten-free option. For a vegan adaptation, you can replace the tuna with diced tofu or chickpeas and adjust the marinade accordingly.
Seasonal Adaptations
In summer, you could incorporate fresh avocados and cherry tomatoes for a burst of color and flavor. In the fall, consider adding roasted sweet potatoes for a heartier twist.
Recipe FAQs
- Can I use frozen tuna? Yes, you can use previously frozen tuna if it has been thawed properly, but make sure it is sushi-grade.
- What can I substitute for soy sauce? You can use coconut aminos or tamari for a gluten-free option.
- How long can I keep leftovers? Leftovers are best consumed within 24 hours for optimal freshness.
- Can I make this poke spicy? Absolutely! Add sriracha or chili flakes to the marinade for a spicy kick.
How To Make Tuna Poke (Hawaiian Raw-Tuna Salad)
Tuna Poke (Hawaiian Raw-Tuna Salad)
Tuna Poke, the Hawaiian Raw-Tuna Salad, is a vibrant and refreshing dish that embodies the flavors of the ocean and the spirit of Aloha.
Ingredients
- 1 lb sushi-grade tuna, diced into small cubes
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon honey (or agave syrup for a vegan option)
- 2 green onions, finely sliced
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
- ½ avocado, sliced (optional)
- Seaweed flakes (for garnish)
Instructions
- Begin by preparing your ingredients: dice the sushi-grade tuna into small, even cubes and slice the green onions.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, and honey until well combined.
- Gently fold the diced tuna into the marinade, ensuring that each piece is evenly coated.
- Add the sliced green onions and sesame seeds to the bowl and mix gently.
- Let the mixture marinate in the refrigerator for 15-30 minutes.
- Once marinated, serve the poke in chilled bowls, garnishing with avocado slices and seaweed flakes if desired.
Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 313Total Fat 18gSaturated Fat 3gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 15gCholesterol 19mgSodium 1179mgCarbohydrates 26gFiber 4gSugar 6gProtein 13g
Easy Shrimp Recipes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
Tuna Poke is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of fresh ingredients and vibrant flavors. Perfect for a summer gathering or a quick weeknight dinner, this dish is versatile, easy to prepare, and sure to impress. Whether you stick to the traditional recipe or make your own variations, Tuna Poke is a delightful way to bring a taste of Hawaii into your kitchen. Enjoy every bite!
