Ahi Poke Recipe

Ahi tuna: Fresh, sushi-grade tuna is the star of this dish, providing a rich, buttery texture.

Soy sauce: Adds a salty, umami flavor that complements the tuna.

Sesame oil: Provides a nutty aroma and depth to the dish.

Green onions: Adds a fresh, mild onion flavor and a bit of crunch.

Sesame seeds: Contribute a subtle nutty flavor and a pleasant crunch.

Red pepper flakes: Optional, but they add a spicy kick to the dish.

When preparing ahi tuna for this recipe, ensure you use sushi-grade fish to guarantee the highest quality and safety. Dice the tuna into uniform cubes to ensure even marination. For an enhanced flavor profile, lightly toast the sesame seeds in a dry skillet over medium heat until they are golden brown and fragrant before adding them to the mixture. This simple step can add a delightful depth of flavor to your poke.

• ahi tuna - Substitute with salmon: Salmon has a similar texture and richness, making it a great alternative for poke.

• ahi tuna - Substitute with tofu: For a vegetarian option, firm tofu can mimic the texture of fish when marinated properly.

• soy sauce - Substitute with tamari: Tamari is a gluten-free alternative that offers a similar umami flavor.

• soy sauce - Substitute with coconut aminos: Coconut aminos provide a slightly sweeter and less salty flavor, suitable for those avoiding soy.

• sesame oil - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil can be used for a milder flavor, though it lacks the nutty aroma of sesame oil.

• sesame oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a neutral flavor and high smoke point, making it a good alternative.

• green onions - Substitute with chives: Chives offer a similar mild onion flavor and can be used in the same quantity.

• green onions - Substitute with shallots: Finely chopped shallots provide a slightly sweeter and more delicate onion flavor.

• sesame seeds - Substitute with chia seeds: Chia seeds add a similar crunch and nutritional benefits, though they lack the nutty flavor.

• sesame seeds - Substitute with hemp seeds: Hemp seeds offer a similar texture and are rich in protein and omega-3 fatty acids.

• red pepper flakes - Substitute with sriracha: Sriracha provides a similar heat level with added garlic and vinegar notes.

• red pepper flakes - Substitute with cayenne pepper: Cayenne pepper can be used for a similar level of spiciness, though it is more intense.

• To store your ahi tuna poke, transfer it to an airtight container. This will help maintain its freshness and prevent any unwanted odors from seeping in.
• Place the container in the coldest part of your refrigerator. The ahi tuna poke should be consumed within 24 hours for the best taste and texture.
• If you need to keep it longer, freezing is an option. First, portion the ahi tuna poke into individual servings. This makes it easier to thaw only what you need.
• Wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap, ensuring there is minimal air exposure. Then, place the wrapped portions into a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Label the bag or container with the date to keep track of its storage time. Frozen ahi tuna poke can be kept for up to 2 months.
• When ready to enjoy, thaw the ahi tuna poke in the refrigerator overnight. Avoid thawing at room temperature to prevent any risk of bacterial growth.
• Once thawed, give the ahi tuna poke a gentle stir to redistribute the soy sauce and sesame oil. This will help revive its flavors.
• Always check the smell and appearance before consuming. If it smells off or the texture seems mushy, it's best to discard it.

• Gently reheat the ahi tuna in a non-stick skillet over low heat for 1-2 minutes, just until warmed through. Avoid overcooking to maintain its delicate texture.
• Use a steamer to lightly steam the ahi poke for about 1-2 minutes. This method helps retain moisture and prevents the fish from drying out.
• Place the ahi poke in a microwave-safe dish, cover with a damp paper towel, and microwave on low power for 30-second intervals until just warmed. Stir gently between intervals to ensure even heating.
• If you prefer a cold dish, simply let the ahi poke come to room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before serving. This method preserves the original texture and flavor.
• For a creative twist, transform the leftovers into a poke bowl by adding fresh ingredients like avocado, cucumber, and rice. No reheating required, just assemble and enjoy!

• Mixing bowl: Use this to combine all the ingredients together.

• Sharp knife: Essential for dicing the ahi tuna into small, even pieces.

• Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for cutting the tuna and chopping the green onions.

• Measuring cups: Necessary for accurately measuring the soy sauce and sesame oil.

• Measuring spoons: Useful for measuring the sesame seeds and red pepper flakes.

• Spatula or spoon: Helps in gently mixing the ingredients together.

• Refrigerator: If you choose to chill the poke before serving, you'll need this to keep it cool.

Pre-cut ingredients: Buy pre-diced ahi tuna from a trusted source to save chopping time.

Use a mixing bowl: Combine all ingredients in a single bowl to minimize cleanup.

Chill ahead: Prepare the poke in advance and let it chill in the refrigerator, so it's ready to serve when needed.

Batch prep: Double the recipe and store extra portions for quick meals later in the week.

Pre-measure sauces: Measure out the soy sauce and sesame oil ahead of time to streamline the mixing process.