The Best Homemade Poke Recipe
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This homemade poke bowl is fresh, flavorful, and totally customizable—perfect for a quick lunch or a fun dinner. You’ll love how easy it is to make, even if you’re new to poke!
- Fresh & vibrant flavors—the combination of tender fish, crisp veggies, and savory sauce is irresistible.
- Endless customization—swap ingredients to match your cravings or what’s in your fridge.
- Ready in minutes—no cooking required, just chop, mix, and enjoy!
Recipe
Intro:
Poke (pronounced poh-kay) is a traditional Hawaiian dish featuring fresh, raw fish marinated in a savory-sweet sauce. This easy homemade version captures the authentic flavors of the islands with minimal effort.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb fresh sushi-grade ahi tuna, cubed
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tsp grated ginger
- 1 tsp honey or agave syrup
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 cup diced cucumber
- 1/2 cup diced avocado
- 1/4 cup diced red onion
Instructions:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, ginger, and honey.
- Add cubed tuna, green onions, sesame seeds, and red pepper flakes (if using). Gently toss to coat.
- Cover and refrigerate for 15–30 minutes to marinate.
- Just before serving, fold in cucumber, avocado, and red onion.
- Serve over rice or enjoy as is.
Notes:
- Use only sushi-grade fish for safety.
- For a spicier kick, add more red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha.
- Best eaten fresh but can be stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours.
Equipment:
- Medium mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
Time:
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 0 minutes
Cuisine: Hawaiian
Serving: 2–3
Nutrition
This homemade poke recipe offers a balanced mix of nutrients, making it both delicious and healthy. Below is the nutritional breakdown per serving.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 kcal |
| Protein | 25 g |
| Carbohydrates | 20 g |
| Fat | 15 g |
| Saturated Fat | 3 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sugar | 5 g |
| Sodium | 800 mg |
What To Serve With It
I love pairing my homemade poke with fresh side dishes, like a crisp seaweed salad or sliced avocado, to add balance and texture. A cold, invigorating beverage, such as iced green tea or a light lemonade, complements the flavors perfectly. These pairings make the meal feel complete without taking attention away from the poke itself.
Fresh Side Dishes
Nothing beats a fresh, vibrant side dish to complement the bold flavors of homemade poke. I love pairing mine with crisp cucumber salad, lightly dressed with rice vinegar and sesame seeds—it’s invigorating and balances the richness. A simple seaweed salad adds an umami kick, while edamame sprinkled with sea salt brings a satisfying crunch. For something heartier, try steamed jasmine rice or a quinoa bowl with avocado slices. These sides keep the meal light yet filling, letting the poke shine. Don’t forget pickled ginger for a tangy bite! Each dish enhances the experience without overpowering the star of the table.
Complementary Beverages
When pairing drinks with poke, it’s all about finding something that complements the fresh, bold flavors without stealing the show. I love a crisp, chilled white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio—they’re light and invigorating, perfect for balance. If wine isn’t your thing, try a citrusy beer or a cold sake for a slightly sweet twist. For non-alcoholic options, I’m a fan of sparkling water with a squeeze of lime or a cold green tea. The key is to keep it simple—let the poke shine while your drink adds that extra zing to each bite. Cheers!
