Hawaiian Ahi Poke Recipe Video

Why We Love This Hawaiian Poke Recipe

When you think of standard Hawaiian foods, what comes to mind? Kalua Pork, Fresh Grilled Fish, Poi, Lomi Lomi, Hawaiian Sweet Bread, POG, Spam… Poke. Hawaiian Poke makes a wonderful protein-packed lunch or snack! Or it can be served in shot glasses to be served as an appetizer at a cocktail party. I have to confess, that we made it a goal to test every Poke Recipe we could find during our time in Hawaii, eating it nearly every day. We ate Ahi poke, octopus poke, crab poke, oyster poke, mussel poke, and several other Hawaiian fish varieties. Our favorite, by far, was the Ahi Poke. Rich, tender, sashimi grade Ahi tuna dressed with simple ingredients to allow the essence of the raw fish to shine. The main components in every style of poke are extremely fresh seafood, Maui onion, and soy sauce. All other ingredients are negotiable. The result will always be delicious, with lots of umami flavors that you won’t be able to get enough of! This ahi poke recipe is super easy to make and can be used on its own or in a homemade poke bowl!

What Is Poke?

Poke, pronounced po-kay (or po-kee for the haoles) is a lesser-known Hawaiian favorite. This raw seafood salad, a cross between sushi and ceviche, is loved by both the locals and the haole (white folk) that come to stay. You can find fresh pre-made Poke at every fish counter in Hawaiian grocery stores and at seafood markets across the state. Locals often stop by the market several times a week for this quick and healthy lunch. Because it is raw, you have to make sure that you are using sashimi-grade ahi tuna steaks!

Ingredients You Need

This Poke Recipe has only seven ingredients and can be made the morning of the party and set out right before it starts.

Ahi Tuna Steaks – Sashimi grade, which means they are safe to consume raw. Maui Onions – You can also use sweet onions or shallots. Green Onions – Chopped scallion for color. Soy Sauce – Regular, low sodium, or gluten-free. Sesame Oil – For its nutty essence. Chile Garlic Sauce – This adds a little kick! Sesame Seeds – For crunchy texture.

How To Make Hawaiian Poke

Pat the Ahi tuna dry, then neatly cut it into small 1/2-inch cubes. Place in a bowl. Add the shallots, green onion, soy sauce, sesame oil, chili garlic sauce, and sesame seeds. Gently toss. Serve immediately or cover and refrigerate.

Recipe Variations

For another variation, omit the chili sauce and add 1/2 teaspoon wasabi paste and 1 teaspoon honey. You can also add a fresh avocado if you so desire! Also, check out our Hawaiian Poke Bowls, our Wonton Ahi Nachos, and our Authentic Tako Poke Recipe! If you like sushi or ceviche, you will LOVE poke!