Summer is the perfect time for light and refreshing dishes, and one that is gaining popularity is poke, a traditional Hawaiian raw fish salad. Poke is a simple and flavorful dish that is easy to make at home, and it’s a great way to enjoy raw fish in a different way than sushi. In this blog, we will share with you everything you need to know about poke and how to make it at home.

What is Poke?
Poke (pronounced poh-keh) is a raw fish salad that originated in Hawaii. It is typically made with ahi tuna, but can also be made with other types of fish like salmon or octopus. The fish is cut into bite-sized cubes and mixed with a sauce made of soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and other seasonings like onions and chili peppers.
Making Poke at Home
To make poke at home, you’ll need a few simple ingredients. The most important ingredient is, of course, the fish. It’s crucial to use high-quality, sushi-grade fish that is safe to eat raw. You’ll also need soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, sugar, onions, and chili peppers. Optional ingredients include seaweed, cucumber, and avocado. For garnish, you can use sesame seeds and chopped green onions.
To prepare the poke, start by cutting the raw fish into bite-sized cubes and placing it in a large bowl. Add sliced onions and chopped chili peppers to the bowl. In a separate bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and sugar to create the marinade. Pour the marinade over the fish and vegetables and gently stir to ensure that everything is coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
When you’re ready to serve, garnish the poke with sesame seeds and chopped green onions. You can serve it on its own as a light meal or pair it with steamed rice for a more substantial dish. Poke is versatile and customizable, so feel free to experiment with different ingredients and seasonings.
Benefits of Eating Poke
Besides being delicious, poke is also a healthy dish. Raw fish is an excellent source of protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and other essential vitamins and minerals. The addition of onions and chili peppers provides even more health benefits, including antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties.