Introduction
If you’re looking for a dish that captures the essence of Hawaii in every bite, look no further than this salmon poke recipe. The word “poke” means “to slice” in Hawaiian, a nod to the preparation of raw, cubed fish that is the heart of this dish. Poke has evolved to be one of Hawaii’s most popular dishes, enjoyed for its vibrant flavors, health benefits, and versatility. With just a few high-quality ingredients, this salmon poke recipe brings the beachside freshness of Hawaii right to your kitchen, whether you’re in the mood for a poke bowl, a salad topping, or a light appetizer.
Not only is this salmon poke recipe quick and easy, but it’s also packed with nutritious benefits, including omega-3 fatty acids, lean protein, and essential minerals. For anyone who loves seafood or is simply curious to try a new cuisine, this dish is a must-make. From the delicate flavor of sashimi-grade salmon to the nutty crunch of sesame seeds and the umami kick of soy sauce, each bite delivers a perfect balance of flavors. Ready to get started? Let’s dive into this salmon poke recipe and discover a new way to enjoy seafood!
Recipe Card
Description: Hawaiian salmon poke recipe with sashimi-grade salmon, soy sauce, sesame oil, and rice vinegar. Perfect for poke bowls, salads, or appetizers.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Marinate Time: 1 hour (optional)
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 280 kcal per serving
Ingredients:
- 1 lb sashimi-grade salmon, cubed
- 2 tbsp soy sauce (more to taste)
- 1 tbsp toasted sesame oil
- 1 tsp rice vinegar
- ¼ cup green onions, sliced
- ¼ cup sweet onion, diced
- 1 tsp sesame seeds
- 1 tsp sea salt (adjust to taste)
Instructions:
- Cube the Salmon: Begin by cutting the sashimi-grade salmon into bite-sized cubes. Place the cubes in a medium bowl.
- Prepare the Marinade: In a separate bowl, combine soy sauce, toasted sesame oil, and rice vinegar.
- Combine Ingredients: Add green onions, sweet onion, and sesame seeds to the bowl with the salmon. Pour the marinade over everything, gently stirring to coat each piece.
- Marinate: Allow the salmon to marinate in the fridge for up to 1 hour for enhanced flavor.
- Serve: Serve immediately with rice or as part of a poke bowl.
Notes:
- Optional toppings: Red pepper flakes, macadamia nuts, Hawaiian seaweed, or avocado.
- Use tamari or coconut aminos in place of soy sauce if you’re gluten-free.
- Avoid marinating for more than an hour to preserve the salmon’s texture.
Nutrition Information
- Serving Size: 2/3 cup
- Calories: 280 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Protein: 24g
- Fat: 19g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 62mg
- Sodium: 1267mg
- Sugars: 1g
- Fibre: 0g
Why You’ll Love This Salmon Poke Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This salmon poke recipe requires minimal prep, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or easy appetizers.
- Fresh and Healthy: High in protein and omega-3 fatty acids, it’s a nutritious, low-calorie meal option.
- Authentic Hawaiian Flavors: Recreate the unique flavors of Hawaii with ingredients you can find at any grocery store.
- Customizable: This salmon poke recipe can be adapted to your taste preferences with additional toppings or mix-ins.
- Great for Entertaining: It’s an impressive dish to serve guests, especially those who appreciate bold, fresh flavors.
Key Ingredients and Substitutions
Sashimi-Grade Salmon
The foundation of this salmon poke recipe is high-quality, sashimi-grade salmon. It’s essential to use fish specifically meant for raw consumption, as it ensures the safety and the best flavour. If you can’t find sashimi-grade salmon, ask your fishmonger for sushi-grade alternatives. Tuna, octopus, or yellowtail also work well in this salmon poke recipe.
Soy Sauce
Soy sauce is a staple in Hawaiian cuisine and adds a rich, umami flavour to this salmon poke recipe. If you need a gluten-free option, tamari or coconut aminos are great alternatives that offer similar depth without gluten.
Sesame Oil
Toasted sesame oil gives a nutty aroma that complements the salmon and makes the flavor of this salmon poke recipe truly authentic. If you don’t have sesame oil, avocado oil is a decent substitute, although it won’t have the same robust flavor.
Rice Vinegar
Rice vinegar adds a touch of acidity that balances out the richness of the fish. If rice vinegar isn’t available, substitute it with mild white wine vinegar. However, rice vinegar’s delicate flavor is ideal for this salmon poke recipe.
Green Onions and Sweet Onions
Onions bring a zesty crunch that contrasts nicely with the tender salmon. Green onions add freshness, while sweet onions bring a mild, pleasant bite. Red onions can also be used for a stronger taste.
Sesame Seeds
Sesame seeds add texture and visual appeal. White or black sesame seeds both work well, or substitute with crushed macadamia nuts for a Hawaiian twist.
How to Make the Salmon Poke Recipe (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Prepare the Salmon
Start with high-quality, sashimi-grade salmon, and dice it into bite-sized cubes. Slicing the fish into even pieces ensures that each bite is well-flavored and that the texture of this salmon poke recipe is smooth and tender.
Step 2: Mix the Marinade
In a small bowl, combine soy sauce, toasted sesame oil, and rice vinegar. This simple marinade gives the salmon poke recipe its signature flavor profile with balanced umami and nuttiness.
Step 3: Combine with Salmon and Onions
Add the green onions, sweet onion, and sesame seeds to the cubed salmon, then pour the marinade over the mixture. Gently toss everything together, ensuring the marinade coats each piece.
Step 4: Marinate Briefly
Let the poke marinate in the refrigerator for up to an hour. Avoid marinating for longer, as the acidity from the vinegar can alter the texture of the fish. This salmon poke recipe is all about freshness, so it’s best enjoyed soon after preparation.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Serve this salmon poke recipe chilled. For a classic Hawaiian experience, enjoy it over warm rice, add it to a salad, or serve as a standalone appetizer.
Expert Tips for Success
- Use Only Sashimi-Grade Salmon: The quality of your salmon directly impacts the flavor and safety of this salmon poke recipe. Only use sashimi-grade fish from a reputable supplier.
- Chill for the Best Flavor: This dish is meant to be served cold, allowing the flavors to meld while preserving the freshness.
- Customize Your Bowl: Add avocado, cucumber, seaweed, or spicy mayo to personalize your salmon poke recipe.
- Don’t Over-Marinate: Less is more here—marinating for about 30 minutes to an hour is perfect for enhancing the flavor without changing the texture.
Variations and Customizations
- Spicy Salmon Poke: Add Sriracha or red pepper flakes for a bit of heat in your salmon poke recipe.
- Fruit-Infused Poke: Incorporate diced mango or pineapple for a tropical sweetness that balances the savory flavors.
- Different Fish Options: For variety, try ahi tuna, yellowtail, or a mix of different sashimi-grade fish.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute salmon with tofu for a vegetarian-friendly poke bowl with a similar texture and flavor profile.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours. This salmon poke recipe is best enjoyed fresh, so try to consume it the same day if possible.
Freezer: Freezing is not recommended as it alters the texture of the raw salmon.
Make-Ahead Option: Prepare the marinade ahead and store it separately. Dice the salmon just before serving for the freshest flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This salmon poke recipe can be enjoyed in a variety of creative and delicious ways, making it a versatile dish that fits any occasion. Here are some ideas:
- Over Rice: A traditional way to enjoy poke is over a bed of sushi rice, brown rice, or jasmine rice, creating a satisfying poke bowl. For a unique twist, try using cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option that still complements the flavors of this salmon poke recipe.
- With Greens: If you’re looking for a lighter option, serve the poke over mixed greens, spinach, or even arugula to create a fresh poke salad. You can add sliced cucumbers, shredded carrots, or other veggies to enhance the texture and flavor.
- As an Appetizer: Serve this salmon poke recipe in small bowls or on mini plates for an appetizer that’s sure to impress. For added crunch, offer seaweed crisps or crispy wonton chips on the side, which guests can use to scoop up the poke.
- In Nori Wraps or Tacos: Make poke hand rolls by wrapping the marinated salmon in nori sheets, or serve it taco-style in lettuce cups for a handheld, bite-sized treat. This is a fun, unique way to enjoy Poke, especially at gatherings or events.
- With Toppings: Add avocado slices, edamame, pickled ginger, radish, or microgreens as toppings for extra layers of flavor and nutrition. Sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of spicy mayo can also add a delightful kick to the salmon poke recipe.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is sashimi-grade salmon?
Sashimi-grade salmon is a term used to describe high-quality fish that has been handled, stored, and frozen specifically for safe raw consumption. It’s essential to purchase sashimi-grade salmon from a reputable supplier to ensure freshness and safety.
Is it possible to cook the salmon for this recipe?
Yes, while traditional poke is served raw, you can sear or lightly cook the salmon if you prefer. Searing the salmon on all sides gives it a beautiful texture while still allowing the center to stay tender. However, cooking the salmon will change the overall flavor profile of this salmon poke recipe.
What other fish can I use?
In addition to salmon, you can use other types of sushi-grade fish, such as ahi tuna, yellowtail, or octopus. Ahi tuna is a popular choice for poke bowls and can be used in combination with salmon for a mixed fish poke.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Simply substitute the soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free alternative that still delivers the savory umami flavor essential to this salmon poke recipe.
How long can I keep salmon poke in the fridge?
Poke is best enjoyed fresh due to the raw nature of the fish. If you do have leftovers, though, keep them in the fridge in an airtight container and use them within a day. Avoid keeping it for longer, as the quality and safety may diminish.
What’s the difference between poke and ceviche?
Poke is a Hawaiian dish traditionally made with raw fish seasoned with soy sauce, sesame oil, and other ingredients. Ceviche, on the other hand, is a Latin American dish where raw fish is “cooked” in acidic citrus juice (usually lime) and mixed with herbs, spices, and often tomatoes or peppers.
Related Recipes
If you love this salmon poke recipe, here are a few more seafood-inspired recipes that are just as refreshing, flavorful, and easy to make:
- Ahi Tuna Poke Bowl: Another classic Hawaiian poke variation, featuring ahi tuna with similar seasonings and toppings, perfect for a poke bowl with added spice or extra toppings.
- Shrimp Ceviche: A citrusy, tangy Latin American dish that marinates shrimp in fresh lime juice and adds diced vegetables for a zesty appetizer or light main course.
- Salmon Sushi Bowls: A twist on traditional sushi, these bowls feature raw salmon, rice, and your favorite sushi toppings in an easy-to-assemble meal.
- Crispy Asian Salmon Rice Bowl: For a cooked variation, try this rice bowl with pan-seared or baked salmon, topped with a sweet and savory Asian glaze.
- Spicy Tuna Roll Bowl: Enjoy all the flavours of a spicy tuna roll in a convenient bowl format with diced tuna, rice, and spicy mayo.
Each of these recipes brings unique flavors and textures that highlight seafood’s versatility, just like the salmon poke recipe.
Conclusion
This salmon poke recipe offers a delicious way to bring the fresh, vibrant flavors of Hawaii right into your kitchen. With its simplicity and versatility, it’s an excellent option for both seasoned seafood lovers and those new to poke. From the mild, buttery taste of sashimi-grade salmon to the umami depth of soy sauce and sesame oil, each bite is balanced, fresh, and incredibly satisfying. Whether you serve it in a poke bowl with rice and toppings, as a salad, or even as an appetizer with seaweed crisps, this recipe is sure to please.
Give this salmon poke recipe a try, and customize it with your favorite toppings or mix-ins. It’s an ideal meal for busy nights, lunch prep, or even impressing guests with a unique, healthy dish. So grab some sashimi-grade salmon and a few simple ingredients, and enjoy this taste of the islands. You’ll be glad you did!
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