Poke bowls were a big part of the Bowl and Blade menu, and they are easier to make at home than most people think. Good fish, seasoned rice, a simple dressing and a few crunchy toppings are all you need.
The recipes
- Maui-Style Poke Bowl: honey tamari, mango and spicy mayo. Our best seller.
- Miso Poke Bowl: savory miso dressing and wasabi mayo.
- Rising Sun Poke Bowl: a light, bright yuzu dressing.
- Poke Avocado Toast: the same idea, on toast.
What is poke?
Poke (pronounced poh-keh) is a Hawaiian dish of cubed raw fish, traditionally tuna, seasoned simply with soy sauce, sesame oil, onion and seaweed. The bowl versions served on the mainland add rice and lots of toppings.
How to build a poke bowl at home
- Rice: seasoned sushi rice, brown rice, or half rice and half greens.
- Fish: sushi-grade tuna or salmon, cut into even cubes and dressed just before serving.
- Dressing: soy or tamari based, sweetened with a little honey or mirin and brightened with citrus or rice vinegar.
- Fresh toppings: cucumber, mango, cabbage, carrot, edamame or avocado.
- Something pickled: pickled ginger, onion or carrot.
- Crunch and finish: seaweed salad, nori, scallions, sesame seeds, and a creamy sauce if you like.
Buying fish for poke
Ask for sushi-grade fish or fish labeled safe to eat raw, buy it the day you will eat it, and keep it cold. If you are pregnant, cooking for young children, or have a weakened immune system, use cooked fish or tofu instead.
Cooked and vegetarian options
- Flaked baked salmon
- Cooked shrimp
- Seared tuna
- Marinated firm tofu
- Edamame and avocado
Is poke healthy?
Usually, yes: lean protein, vegetables and healthy fats in one bowl. Sauces and portions make the difference. We look at the details in Is Poke Healthy?